HMC Architects's Pam Maynard on Finelite direct/indirect pendant light fixtures

	In lieu of traditional fluorescent fixtures, HMC interior designer Pam Maynard specified Finelite direct/indirect pendant light fixtures for 40 classrooms and five teacher training rooms at the Phillip M. Stokoe Elementary School at the Innovative Learning Center in Riverside, Calif. The fixtures provide improved light distribution, reduced energy costs, and faster installation, according to Maynard.

Pam Maynard, Director of Interior Design with HMC Architects, Ontario, Calif., specified 390 pendant direct/indirect fixtures from Finelite for 40 classrooms and five teacher training rooms at the Phillip M. Stokoe Elementary School at the Innovative Learning Center in Riverside, Calif. The project started as a test case, but the Alvord Unified School District was so pleased with the outcome that it specified the fixtures throughout the school, and has since decided to use pendant lighting in all schools in the district.

“The pendants provide a much better distribution of light compared to standard, recessed fluorescents. The diffused light source provides an even distribution of light up, down, and sideways, washing walls and other surfaces with light.”

“A surprise benefit is energy efficiency. With improved distribution of light, the project required 25% fewer fixtures.”

“The contractor learned that it is quicker to install pendants. Entire rows of fixtures can be wired at one time, versus having to wire and install each and every fixture.”

“The teachers are pleased because the lights have dimming capability. They can dim the lights after recess to calm student behavior.”