this lighting system improves the illumination of enclosed spaces by reducing undesirable shadows . elongated curved reflective surfaces at the upper periphery of the illuminated space reflect light from a central source to the activity area . light arriving at the activity area from many directions softens or eliminates shadows . appropriate lighting contrast may be selected at installation and maintained by simple adjustments in response to changes in layout , furnishings , and activities conducted in the illuminated area . contrast may be controlled as needed by varying the ratio of light reflected from the periphery to that proceeding directly from the central source to the activity area . a smaller number of efficient , powerful light sources lowers power consumption , reduces fixture installation and wiring costs , and diminishes maintenance labor compared to conventional lighting systems .