Start with the light that reaches the leaves
A position marked beside a window is not automatically a bright position. Orientation, glazing, curtains, overhangs and distance all change the light available to a plant. During a survey, record how the point changes through the morning, midday and afternoon. Design to the weakest relevant season, not a single sunny visit.
Illuminance can fall quickly as distance from the glass increases. Tall cabinets, partitions and deep reveals create local shade. A large plant may also receive very different light at the top and bottom, so one reading at planter height is not enough.
Define three usable light bands
- Bright indirect light supports open canopies and pronounced leaf patterns, provided hot direct sun through glass is controlled.
- Medium indirect light suits many dependable foliage plants, but the position should still have a visible daytime light cycle.
- Low-light positions require tolerant plants and a documented plan for rotation, supplementary lighting or a shorter display period.
Shade tolerant means that a plant can cope with lower light for a period. It does not mean that the plant grows without light. If people need permanent artificial lighting to see detail during the day, the planting specification should include a lighting and maintenance response.
Put the conclusion into the handover
Mark each plant position, distance from the window, intended light band and survey date. Commercial interiors should also record lighting schedules, air outlets and hot zones beside curtain walls. A replacement plant can then be selected against the same environmental boundary rather than by appearance alone.
SO Plant helps compare scale and visual relationships in a space. Final species selection should still be checked against measured light and seasonal change. Looking right and remaining healthy are connected, but distinct, design decisions.