The intention is to develop a better understanding of what message in the form of atmosphere are people receiving from the light solutions of open public spaces and what characteristics contribute to build this perception. The method consists of two main stages. For the first  stage a methodology to critically observe lighting solutions is developed. The methodology is based on the combination of past studies from Anders Liljefors and Carolina Hiller. The second stage comprehends an analysis of the lighting solutions of three case studies in Stockholm province area. Using a questionnaire, general public is asked to observe the lighting in specific areas of each case study to do a further categorization into atmospheres.

The premise is that by understanding the characteristics, that contribute to the perception of specific atmospheres, the lighting designer can conceive a project efficiently: by strengthening the relation between the project's intention and the final user's perception.