How I Design + Draw Architectural Lighting Plans

Follow along as I design + draw an architectural lighting plan + create the presentation assets for my clients to review. An electrical plan shows the fixture types, switching, receptacle locations and all electrical devices + equipment we need to plan for in our architecture.
Designing it in coordination with the other essential building systems: architectural, structural, mechanical and plumbing affords us the most control in the final outcome. Hidden elements in a project - beams, ductwork, vent stacks - can adversely impact the placement of the visible lighting elements which is why we plan for them in the design process. Drawing and overlaying each helps us to identify conflicts on paper where it's much more efficient and cost-effective to make changes.
See how the abstract concepts of ambient, task + accent lighting are accounted for and applied in a real-world design of a remote, off-the-grid residential project in Maine, USA.
Download my templates via the blog post:
thirtybyforty.com/blog/archite...
Time stamps to help you navigate:
0:00 Introduction
0:38 Base Plan
1:20 Information You'll Need
1:39 Three Types of Lighting + How to Layer
2:10 Lay out the Ambient Lighting
3:07 Recessed Spacing Guidelines
6:55 What not to do
8:09 Lighting in Layers
10:19 Mini-lesson on exterior lighting
13:30 Drawing the plan digitally (I use AutoCAD LT 2020, because I like it, it's really fast and I can make drawings that actually look good. If you want to use Revit, or a pencil + graph paper, they work too!)
15:00 Centerings
16:18 Switching
21:42 Receptacles
24:08 Everything else
25:31 Let's build this...
JOIN MY ONLINE COURSE:
Enroll here: thirtybyforty.com/a-e-course
DIGITAL DRAWING TEMPLATES:
* AutoCAD: thirtybyforty.com/autocad-temp...
* REVIT: thirtybyforty.com/revit-template
ARCHITECT'S TOOLKIT:
Architect + Entrepreneur Startup Toolkit (* *NEW for 2020 ** ): thirtybyforty.com/spl
MUSIC in this video is from Epidemic Sound. Use my link for a free 30-day trial:
thirtybyforty.com/epidemic
ALL MY GEAR (UPDATED LIST):
*thirtybyforty.com/kit
#electricalplan #lightingdesign #architecturallighting

[@alexanderclaylavin]

This is my favorite architectural lighting design discussion on KZbin yet. Another banger Eric!

[@northerncult6480]

Yes, ours too!

[@minayeletifova8008]

@@northerncult6480 niniiij ii iiij

[@WhiteGhost2212]

The aesthetic you've achieved with your blueprints, the level of detail that is included, and your process from start to completion is still something I envy and am constantly inspired by.

[@sebastianra354]

Make that envy motivation to try your hardest in every project, to do it with passion, thats how you get to the level you want. You can do it.

[@kj-uv7zr]

As a relatively inexperienced drafter I really needed this, even though I model with Revit exclusively. Your explanation of lighting techniques will help my renderings too, so thanks so much!

[@zhennyboy6056]

I am an interior designer and the contents that he has provided are just priceless.

[@Jadisek]

Eric, truelly, you're the most generous with sharing your expertise. Your videos are not only beautifully done but so informative, I learn so much from you! I wanted to thank you and let you know how grateful I am to you for making your content.

[@Starstreastudios]

As a theatrical lighting designer and draftsperson, I really loved this! Seeing how others do similar tasks but for a different outcome, this is really wonderful to see. Keep up the great work!

[@ndikumanalewis]

This is great video! Well all your videos are tbh, but this was something else. As an architectural engineering student passionate about all parts of the design process, your videos have been a great addition to the school material I'm learning that can sometimes feel very technical and uninteresting. So thank you so much. Looking forward to whatever you have coming next.

[@rongg6882]

You're helping young and emerging architects around the world such as myself! :) It's like doing an intern. Thank you so much, sir!

[@mikekoy4259]

OMG this is like a masterclass! some things are just not thought in uni and this video was just so helpful to understand lighting plans better. thank you so much!!

[@adamandrews3061]

Great vid Eric. Your channel has really helped motivate my studies throughout the UK lockdown.

[@brookeking4136]

This tutorial is unbelievable! You are so articulate and the depth of your education shows. I am currently a BID student and this has helped me tremendously-- thank you!

[@JeffreyXu7]

This is something that I don't see much content about so I'm glad that you are able to shine some light on this!

[@gerolori]

That's fascinating, I'm not an interior designer nor an architect by any means, but that was in-depth and clear enough to be understood by someone out of this field. Entertaining too! Awesome channel, I've been watching a couple of your videos and you're awesome, keep doing this!

[@StevenPlayz123]

As a teen with love of architecture it helps me whenever I like to learn architecture, especially during quarantine, it gives me time to study architecture. Thank you!

[@kedrickcondie5213]

I'm a teen intrested in architecture too! I thought I would be the only one of those following this channel 😂👍🏻 Great content!

[@tanmaysabharwal7]

This is golden...thank you so much!! It is high time architects start rendering the real day to day knowledge of solving problems that might not look good as a chapter in a book but are so essential to understand what we actually run into. It pains me to realize, now that I am on that journey, that we can spend years into the profession and yet not know the best way to deal with stuff like this...architects due to their inept abilities n whimsical egos based off of their undying desire to emulate the great STARchitects r failing the next-gen to work at their creative best...although, really appreciate people like you...I’m sure there r many others like me who never comment but admire what you do!! Thank you again:)

[@jeboccuzzi10]

I found this vid electrifying. Thanks Eric.

[@mauROHO]

Thnx so much for sharing this Eric, im always confused when im trying to make this type of plans, and this helps a lot. Love your videos.

[@ghaliaedrees9160]

Absolutely love this channel. This is the kind of content we need more of on youtube!

[@Studio39DesignStudio]

Every time you upload, I learn something new. This video has really given me a better perspective on how to approach my lighting layouts. Thanks you.

[@mandingowarlord]

Really like the way you show all of us your approach and thought process in laying out the electrical system. Plus the video presentation is the BEST!

[@emeQve]

I've always struggled with lighting plans and even at school, my lecturers almost made it seem like it was a drag and something that needs to be done just because it needs to be done. This really opens my perspective on this topic and thanks a lot for taking the effort into making this video.

[@vincentmasabiartingbari3618]

I also thought same.

[@bushra8070]

You are such a great teacher.. I've understood all the information you've explained. My appreciation!

[@LongtowerNyc]

As a photographer who takes a high emphasis on lighting and also about to purchase my first home. I soooooooooooooo apreciate this video. The same techniques you explain we do this in lighting subjects/products for photo shoots. Thank you so much for this post.

[@felixtorres2482]

Awesome video! I'm starting drafting course in school next year and I plan on using your videos to help me make my diagrams. Looking forward to it. Thanks again, Eric. Hope you and your family stay safe in these chaotic times!

[@DejumaStudio]

LOVE YOUR CHANNEL and how you delivery the informations, its beyondd and detail!

[@shahensha786]

this is such an incredible video, very well explained, the presentation is just next level neat, thank you Eric

[@linageseviciute589]

I watched this video few times already, dissecting it piece by piece. Thank you for a great content.

[@addm15]

And its crazy how people think designing a well thought out project is cheap... Great stuff! Learning a ton from your design workflow!

[@avishkarmeshram6387]

I learn so much...so so much from this, you're like a kind and a patient teacher. Thank you.

[@victorcealic6387]

Thank you, love the videos always making me feel good that I chose to study architecture thank you from the bottom of my heart.

[@30by40]

Want my lighting template? Here's the link to download it: architect-entrepreneur.teachable.com/p/30x40-design-workshop-electrical-plan-template/

[@davidhernandez9985]

Awesome, updating lighting plandrawing Mr.Reinholdt.

[@davidhernandez9985]

Happy 4th of 30X40 Design Workshop!

[@carinac4570]

Amazing... Thank you so much for sharing your experience and knowledge 😊 If someone a few weeks ago told me that I could be watching architecture lighting design at 5.45am I didn't believed, but I'm enjoying. This video is SO helpful, lighting is not just add a few lamps like I listening before it's SO important plan ahead, different lights for different purposes.

[@shersh_n]

You channel is an incredible resource for us Architects! I hope more prospective home owners latch onto the value you bring through this resource as well! The entire residential property industry can benefit from your knowledge Eric! Thanks for being a mentor (whether you know it or not 😃)

[@joonierkive4331]

so this video is what my lecturer meant for us to search more knowledge outside school. actually I wasn't even sure if I could survive in architecture school or not, but with this video I slowly open my mind and gain more confidence. thank you so much for this, it really means a lot in my life (i'm sorry for my bad english)

[@eleazarcoello2660]

I really apreciate your passion for the architecture! That´s what makes me stay here learning with you! Thanks bro! Grettings from Venezuela.

[@silvial4838]

I thoroughly enjoyed watching this video. Thank you for taking the time and for sharing Eric.

[@JSRDesign23]

👏 I love how he explains evrything! If you are a designer, Electrician, Interior Designer, Student, Contractor or Owner planning to build your home, this video is highly recommended.. ***By far my Favorite Architect in KZbin 😎 ***

[@anhpham91]

As a young architectural designer, I found you videos are very reflective and helpful. Love your templates and drawings. Please keep up awesome videos! Thank you!

[@ridgoro]

wow, I've never learned so much in such a brief time! thank you for making this video!

[@davidkonevky7372]

The art of mastering the use of natural light is key to a good house.

[@___.___.___.___.___.___.___]

Of course.... until the sun goes down

[@interiordesignschool]

Pity the majority of housebuilders (especially here in the UK) don't agree... the windows are so small (and typically we only get one per room - if you're lucky) and it's already dark 90% of the year! Artificial lighting is all we have to work with in 99% of cases even during the day - it's truly depressing (unless of course, you're lucky enough to have an architecturally significant home.. in that case, it was designed to have natural daylight by someone who cared for the way we humans live rather than to sell a house as quickly as possible.)

[@SuperCD93]

Great video! Loved seeing you work through stuff on paper then finalising things in software!

[@elaowen654]

Again another super informative and interesting video! Lighting in architecture is one of my favourite steps in the design process, so to watch a detailed video on this topic was very satisfying

[@BrandonMillerRaps]

I took 3 years of architecture in high school and we never really dove into this side of drafting. Thank you for filling the gap!

[@karthikvenugopal9139]

i so much regret watching this now, My academic working drawings lighting and other projects just got over a few hours back. Really a great video Eric!

[@barrystott-brookes5883]

Eric, this is a great insight to what we have to do when putting power and lighting layouts together. Will be getting the guys and girls in the office to watch this.

[@marmite2500]

Thank you so much . That is the only and best video i have ever seen on drawing lighting plans

[@JaimeIA]

i love to see how the project is taking form .... from the site vist and now the lighting !!!! you make me do more as an architect !!!

[@sanantoplic8715]

i just say i love the style of the videos the tipps & tricks the sound the hole ambient love you eric

[@arangy1]

Eric, you are amazing, very easy to understand and I love your design concept. Thank you very much.

[@jj_vinet]

Great work Eric. Your content and media has inspired me to change how my studio operates. Thanks for the great content.

[@67Rec]

Quite an enjoyable episode, thank you. My BIM-centric education was focused on large-scale construction projects with design carried out collectively. However, like you, I'm a control freak with a need to complete projects more or less on my own, with a structural engineer where needed. As an aside, 3D visualization tools are so much fun, getting into what color temperatures and different approaches do for the final outcome.

[@acme01]

This is almost exactly how I do lighting/electrical layouts, except I do add a note to 2-way etc switches. I find it helps the client interpret the drawing & I've yet to have an issue with forgetting to amend the number if it changes. Thanks for yet another interesting video Eric, I really enjoy your editing style and the background music you use fits so well.

[@unisonelectricalmarketingl2358]

hi what software can i use to do these drawings

[@LuziusAlbin]

As a lighting designer and planner it was joy to watch the video. Good and simple explained - I would do a lot things different, but that has nothing to do with the solid theory you delivered. Thumbs up!

[@webchillmusic]

Finally.... I've been waiting for so long..thenx lemme watch it

[@30by40]

\m/

[@fuadalhakiim4060]

Yeah

[@webchillmusic]

Hey there.

[@elainekan1917]

Thank you for providing the most detailed lighting plans for home design, I’ve been looking for this for a long time in KZbin, my little cabin is going to refurnishing. It’s really useful ideas and plans. ❤❤❤

[@darwinjames2000]

A AutoCad student and very interesting... gives more light on the futures of ligthing! Your videos are very helpful. Thank you

[@izdagrimeyone]

I'm an electrical apprentice this is so educational. The clarity

[@rexhua4833]

Now I know where architects are coming from on lighting plans. Thank you!!!

[@dustinjohnson6466]

I'm a first year apprentice electrician... This was as fascinating as it was eye-opening. I've been following you for awhile, love your videos man. Thanks for the content. I'm watching again for a second time to find the metal easter egg! Cheers from Canada

[@30by40]

\m/

[@craigtalbot607]

As an electrician, PLEASE think like you live in the home, not like a code book!! Educate your homeowners and they’ll praise (and refer) you forever!!!

[@MarcDahl]

Is there any standarts and laws about the amount of light (amount of lux) at workplaces? Or is it up to the electrician? I'm electrician from Europe, and we have certain strict laws about lighting at workplaces and general areas. (However private homes are up to the customer).

[@NicolasMorenoDiaz]

Hey Man, I love you! You have helped me to re aim my architecture career. Grettings from Colombia!

[@imanshhoumy7085]

I love those type of educational videos , your drawings, the point of view of your camera , just perfect, I wish you would make more educational videos like this

[@GenaroLabrin2711]

These videos are just mesmerizing to watch, and so educational. I study Mechanical Engineering but Arquitecture and Design always fascinated me. Love your channel, just subscribed!

[@francisssempijja244]

I love your collection of reference books, wonderful imagery to feed the creative thirst.

[@francisssempijja244]

Thank you for your Videos, Eric 👌🏾

[@530steve]

Thank you for posting this video! I am preparing to wire a movable shed that will be used for a small retail business. You gave me several good ideas. Thank you again.

[@manuelpatarelo9611]

Amazing content! Your best video so far!!! Thanks

[@mdsiregar367]

After I watched this chanel, my knowledge has grown Good luck😁

[@adetunjiokanlawon8671]

Pleasure watching you teach, great video

[@AnmolSingh-2911]

I'm building something awesome with my family, my father is an engineer & he doesn't exactly love the meticulous details i do. I'm planning it in detail & it's mind drilling amounts of hours I didn't account for. But a part of me knows it'll be worth it. Good to see someone else teach the art.

[@senaligayara967]

My favorite lightning tutorial ❤️

[@bottegaarchitecture7826]

Eric...I have thanked you so many times...and yet again, thank you! You always give me a little refresher course on things like this. It's always a great surprise to learn something new or see something in a different light (whaaat). Great topic and as always, wonderfully narrated.

[@30by40]

Cheers my man!

[@sm8315]

First class content. Thank you from Luxembourg

[@choriamanah]

Thank you!! I like learning about architecture especially lighting. This video is a gem!!

[@danilight438]

I am Electrical Technician, your design and how to plan Lighting of a house has greatly improved on my skills and wow my clients now appreciate the work of my hands. Forever your my teacher. Thank you for your time and effort you give to educate us. Be blessed.

[@jayanirs]

This is very helpful, Eric . Thank you very much for making this video.

[@gameplaycommunity1801]

I like your style of drawing ... very simple but very clear & professional

[@aishasiddiqui470]

Much needed advice, very well explained and extremely helpful !! Thankyou.

[@gigitware942]

wow,, this is amazing, I learned a lot from this,, I'll be watching it again for sure, I never thought this would be fun, but you just made it so.. Thanks!

[@projectsbypeople5544]

Really really informative video and incredibly well shot as always! Seriously inspiring stuff Eric, really hope to consistently put some similarly valuable content out there for the community one day too :)

[@marcuandreea2590]

I'm so lucky I've found your channel!!! I'm in the first year of university and I study architecture. Your videos are extreamly useful and pleasing to watch!!! They are motivating me to study hard! Sorry if I've made grammar mistakes. English it's not my first language 😅

[@TheNextDoorArchitect]

Very informative. Really opens our eye to considering various factors while designing a space .

[@craigtalbot607]

Great video!!! Lighting is almost always overlooked- and it one of the most important parts of your home once you live there!!! Easy to do when the walls are open and the electrician is there, but impossible or expensive once the house is done!

[@joshuajackett6371]

Absolutely brilliant video.

[@Paulsays57]

Thank you for this. It helps me understand lighting design basics more.

[@lyudmilatarusova]

You are the best teacher. I learned so much from you. I did not even learn this in school. It's so frustrating that i spent so many years in school. But I cannot even do electrical outlet layout.

[@javiuxer2249]

It's like having a really good class, cause you explain better than my teachers, I'm an architecture student and these helped me a lot, thanks you. I'm from Mexico and the differences that i see, it's that you need an electrician, in Mexico the architect makes all the job

[@mrgustena]

Awesome lighting design video, thanks! Lots of simple tips to take smart decisions.

[@ivy2425]

Thank you for the video, Eric! Amazing content

[@vikramadityabhowmick6494]

Great video as always...plus i loved that hand watch there.

[@g.boniface946]

Thanks a bunch for sharing you lighting design workflow. Looking forward for your work flow in plumbing. Thanks

[@rushminute]

Very cool. Thank you for sharing your process.

[@shizachaudhary2076]

This is incredible, thank you Eric!

[@kuyavenn9514]

Thank you for this free video tutorial! It helps me a lot! Thank you my friend!

[@m.jacksonulrich9042]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us Sir. It really feeds me with professional knowledge

[@UsamaMahmoudSultan]

I've been waiting for this video like forever , thank you sir

[@268Silver]

Although I'm studying a degree in Construction Management after getting one in Drafting & Design Technology... this channel makes we want to study Architecture in school.

[@ArchiV_Victoria]

Eric, thank you for useful and beautifully edited content as usual! :)

[@AA-nf2pl]

Once again an informative video that has taught me a thing or two that I was not aware of. I would also love to see a video exclusively on window placement, types of windows and how to apply windows in various scenarios. This would be also a really informative video. Thank you

[@sheikhmehedihasan8360]

Watching from Bangladesh.. big fan of your detailing and presentation...

[@shahabjoon201]

Amazing, thanks for sharing this astonishing experience, Good luck

[@EngineeringTABLE]

let me say this.. It been a year i keep watching this between times to time I enjoy the producation and the ideas goes around it... Thank your !!! Keep going the good stuff

[@30by40]

Appreciate that 🙏