It’s always exciting at the start of a design project. It’s easy to get caught up in the fun details of colour, furnishings and finishes. These are obviously of great importance to the overall aesthetics of your space, however, equally or quite often even more important, is lighting. Light is a vital element of any good design. Good lighting will enhance any space – and great lighting will elevate it.
For your lighting plan to be a success, you need to consider a layered approach, which is key when planning, as it gives you the flexibility to create different moods and functions within a given space. There are four basic categories of lighting to note when layering in a room: Ambient, task, accent and decorative.
Ambient lighting illuminates a space and allows you to move easily throughout a room. Task lighting, as seems obvious, affords you added lighting in a specific area devoted to a particular task or function. Accent lighting can be used to highlight artwork, decor or perhaps architectural features within a space. And, finally, decorative lighting is an accessory to your room, or the “finishing touch.”
Another source of light that should never be forgotten in design is natural light – what I consider to be a fifth layer. Natural light is the most inexpensive and environmentally friendly light source available. Many homes have wonderfully large window features that allow for maximum natural light, even in smaller spaces. Not only do windows provide you with access to a great source of natural light and a wonderful view, it also helps to create the illusion of a larger, rather elevated space.
When planning your home renovation, room update or decor refresh projects, remember to invest some time and consideration into how best to light your home, and at the same time, highlight it. You may be pleasantly surprised at the end results.
Five design tips to get you started
1. Working with a reputable lighting store when purchasing your fixtures can help immensely. These professionals are versed in lighting, so spend some time inquiring about the various types of fixtures that are available, especially with respect to LED lighting.
2. Incorporate a different style of fixture into your space, something a bit modern in a more traditional environment or a beautiful crystal chandelier paired with a rustic farmhouse table.
3. The general rule for an eight-ft. ceiling height is that a chandelier should be hung approximately 29 to 33 in. above a dining table. For each added foot of ceiling height, increase the hanging height by three in.
4. Recessed pot lights are a lovely addition to a room, but be sure to add the proper amount – too many can be overwhelming and appear messy on your ceiling. If you reside in a condo, pot lights may be restricted. Consider the addition of track lighting in this case; there are many great track light systems on the market that have a very high-end look to them and are far more user-friendly for a condo environment.
5. Use dimmer switches where possible. Not only can this reduce your electrical usage, but it also adds to the ambience of a room.