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The PORT Perspective

The Complete Guide to Architectural Lighting Controls for Building Facades

by PORT on Oct 2, 2025 9:00:00 AM

103 CITY POINT ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING CONTROLS

Lighting is one of the most visible ways a building makes a statement and today, the technology behind it is smarter and more powerful than ever. Architectural lighting controls for facades go far beyond flipping a switch; they’re about creating experiences, simplifying operations, and ensuring flexibility for years to come. Whether it’s showcasing corporate identity, celebrating community events, or meeting sustainability goals, the right control system turns your facade into a dynamic asset instead of just a design feature.

The Basics of Architectural Lighting Controls

Architectural lighting controls for building facades are technological systems that allow building owners to have flexibility and control over the exterior lighting at any time from any place. The components of a commercial lighting control system depend on the lighting fixture type and control network. These can include:

  • Network-based or DMX-based systems (sometimes DALI)
  • Controllers are central, but discussions also include third-party systems if needed

Examples of third party integrations:

  • Weather data or sensors (local or internet-based)
  • Integration with building management systems (BMS) for centralized control and data points

In the early discussions of a project, control system(s) are chosen based on what the building owner wants in terms of control and access, not based on the type of lights. These decisions are especially important when choosing color-changing facades.

If a client wants stronger remote access capabilities, we typically recommend cloud-based systems. Cloud eliminates the need for on-site computers, VPNs, or direct facility access. It allows building owners, managers, and end users to access and control their system from anywhere.

These controls are able to integrate with almost any building management system, including AV systems. Controls can integrate into BMS so that the building system can:

  • Monitor the lighting system
  • Trigger lighting events
  • Log data points (ex. when the system was activated, what setpoints were used)

Every integration is essentially a transfer of data points between systems.

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Architectural Lighting Control Features to Know and Use

Lighting control systems provide so much flexibility for building owners. An exciting feature from a facade perspective, is that controllers are pre-programmed with geographical data and astronomical calendars. This allows:

  • Automatic scheduling: Lights can adjust automatically to sunset/sunrise throughout the year
  • Conditional logic:
    • Dark sky compliance (reduce output during certain hours)
    • Holiday schedules programmed years in advance (even floating holidays like Labor Day)
  • "Set it and forget it": Systems can run automatically for years with little adjustment
  • Special overrides:
    • Playoff wins (team colors)
    • Tributes (ex. turning everything purple for Prince)
    • Remote access allows one-off adjustments without breaking regular schedules
VERIZON BUILDING LIGHTING CONTROLS

 

A control feature that most clients underutilize, but love once they have it is the ability to schedule event overrides. Most systems require software access and technical knowledge to schedule changes. With some systems, we build custom user interfaces so clients can schedule events in advance (days or weeks ahead) from their phone or app. Once they experience this flexibility, clients love it.

The biggest feature commercial clients overlook when designing a control system for facades is remote access.

  • Many rely on wall stations- or have no remote access at all
  • Without remote access, troubleshooting requires on-site service calls
  • With it, both client and service teams can log in, make changes, and solve issues quickly
  • This saves time and money for everyone

Ready to take your building’s facade lighting to the next level? Whether you’re a facility manager, building owner, or design partner, the right control system can make all the difference in performance, efficiency, and wow-factor. At PORT, we specialize in tailoring architectural lighting controls to fit your vision and operational needs. Let’s talk about how we can make your facade shine beautifully, intelligently, and reliably.

👉 Get in touch today to start designing a control system that works for you.
Topics: Commercial Lighting Lighting Control Systems LED Light Architectural Lighting Bridge Lighting

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