Illuminated Land: Architectural Lighting Implementation and Perception in Prishtina, Kosovo

Sammanfattning

This thesis investigates how architectural lighting is implemented and perceived in everyday urban and architectural spaces in Prishtina, Kosovo. It examines lighting as both a technical system and a perceptual condition influencing spatial legibility, perceived safety, orientation, and nighttime urban experience, while considering how institutional processes shape its implementation. A qualitative case study approach was used, combining field observations, a user perception questionnaire, and a semi-structured interview with a professor of architecture. Two public spaces were selected: Mother Teresa Square and the area surrounding the National Library of Kosovo. Lighting conditions were analyzed using qualitative lighting parameters, while user responses provided insight into subjective experiences. The findings show that structured and continuous lighting improves visibility, orientation, and perceived safety, as demonstrated in Mother Teresa Square. However, highly uniform lighting reduces atmospheric depth and spatial variation. In contrast, insufficient or non-functional lighting in the National Library area negatively affects usability and perceived safety. The study also highlights that lighting implementation is influenced by institutional coordination, procurement processes, and financial constraints. Overall, the research concludes that architectural lighting functions as a technical, perceptual, and institutional system. Improving urban lighting in Prishtina requires integrated, human-centered approaches that balance functionality with atmospheric and experiential qualities.