As stated, 3 VA / sq.ft. is for service load calcs, not for "how many Luminares to be installed". If so, a 10' x 10' room would require 300 Watts of light!
Very blinding in most cases [Linked Image]

For common projects, this would be something someone designs per the needs of the Client, so get their input and apply accordingly.

One member suggested SBCCI for suggested Foot Candle figures. Another is IEC. These figures are helpful in your overall design ideas.

On a similar note - here in California, we have Energy Conservation Codes to conform to. For Electrical, it's known as Title 24 part 6.
For a Residential job, service still is calced with 3 VA / sq. ft., but there are a few mandatory luminare and lamp types per room that must be used.

For a Commercial job, once again the service is sized with lighting VA / sq. ft., but the maximum installed total Wattage falls way below that figure.
For instance, an Office enviroment would allow a maximum of 0.9 Watts / sq. ft. The wattage figure includes the lamp wattage and ballast heat losses.

Good luck!

Scott s.e.t.

Scott " 35 " Thompson
Just Say NO To Green Eggs And Ham!