Lustre

Lustre

Lustre is a term used in design to describe the visual quality of a surface that reflects light in a particular way, creating a shimmering or glossy effect. It is an important consideration in various design disciplines, including product design, interior design, and graphic design. The degree and nature of lustre can significantly influence the perceived value, elegance, and visual appeal of an object or material. In product design, for example, high lustre finishes are often associated with luxury and sophistication, while matte or low lustre finishes may convey a sense of understated elegance or modernity. The choice of lustre can also affect the functionality of a product, as highly reflective surfaces may be more prone to showing fingerprints or scratches. In interior design, the interplay of lustre and light can be used to create dynamic and engaging spaces, with glossy surfaces reflecting and dispersing light to enhance the overall ambiance. Graphic designers may use lustre effects to add depth, dimension, and visual interest to their designs, such as through the use of metallic inks or foil stamping. The history of lustre in design can be traced back to ancient times, with the use of polished stones, metals, and glazed ceramics. The development of new materials and technologies has expanded the possibilities for achieving various lustre effects, from the high shine of polished metal to the subtle sheen of brushed or satin finishes. Understanding the properties and applications of lustre is essential for designers seeking to create visually striking and functionally effective designs across a wide range of media and contexts

Shine, polish, gloss, sheen, radiance, brilliance, gleam, glow, luminosity

— John Armstrong

CITATION : "John Armstrong. 'Lustre.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=432486 (Accessed on July 09, 2025)"