it can be the hardest design decision to make, and also the most impactful.
Although the type of lighting and light fixtures you choose for your home may not be the first aspect of interior design that comes to mind, it plays a key role in setting the overall tone of your home. Lighting is not only a functional form of design, but it is also a key part of cultivating a specific environment for your space. When remodeling or building a home, however, selecting your lighting can feel overwhelming! How do you know where to install overhead lights and where to simply use a lamp? To sort through these questions, we have found it helpful to separate household lighting into these three categories:
- Ambient. This is the main source of lighting for your room – usually overhead or recessed lighting. Ambient lighting is most important in rooms that you spend a lot of time in (think living room and kitchen) that need to be thoroughly well-lit.
- Task. Task lighting refers to light fixtures mounted in specific places based on the activities you will do there. Task lighting brings a more intense and focused light than ambient lighting can, so it is ideal for areas like a work desk, or for setting on top of your piano.
- Accent. Accent lighting is just what it sounds like: not essential for function but used to accent specific pieces in a room. It is reserved to add drama and interest to things like the fireplace, or to draw attention to a piece of wall art you have on display.
The most preferred method for lighting your home is to utilize natural lighting from windows! Capitalize on this as much as possible by opening your blinds and even placing mirrors strategically to brighten your room with as much of this warm light as possible. When it comes to choosing light bulbs, we recommend staying away from fluorescent lighting, as it lends a more harsh and cold tone that can make a space feel much less inviting.
When it comes to choosing specific light fixtures for your space, our first piece of advice is to have fun! Lighting is a great way to add interest and expression to your home design. However, you do want the light fixtures you choose to be consistent with your home’s overall theme. If you are drawn to a more classic and elegant style, take the plunge and install a chandelier! If you are mixing metals in your living room already, don’t be afraid to carry that theme into your lighting as well.
As always, if you need some inspiration, an honest opinion, or a designer’s eye, don’t hesitate to reach out! We are always glad to brainstorm for you and offer solutions that fit your style and needs most fully.
