Good lighting is an integral component to good decor. It not only enhances the function of a room, in addition, it enhances the look. A well-lit space is more usable and more attractive. Fantastic lighting follows a simple formula with a few simple rules. Adjust your room’s lighting according to your demands, the way you use the room and the mood you want to create in your space.
Layer the Lighting
Consider lighting design as another decor component in your property. To create the best, most flexible design, use all three kinds of lighting. General, or ambient lighting illuminates the whole space and does not have to be incredibly bright. Task lighting produces bright, concentrated points of lighting over work areas, like a desk, table or reading chair. Accent lighting is actually the true decorative element and provides a room a more finished look. By layering all 3 kinds of lighting, then you create a more welcoming space.
Layout a Grid of Light
Start your lighting design with ambient lighting. Stick to a grid pattern to ensure even lighting across the room. Ambient light may come from recessed can lights, ceiling lights, large table lamps, floor lamps with an open bowl toward the ceiling or other larger lighting elements. The aim is to create a low degree of comparatively even lighting. Take a look at the ceiling to check lighting distribution; avoid major bright shadows or spots. Insert job lighting over work areas, tables, reading seating or other activity zones. These are usually down-facing lights, table lamps or pendant lights.
Use Light, Shadow and Reflection
Ambient and accent lights both work great for the room and its decor once the light is bounced off a nearby surface, like a ceiling or wall. Bouncing the lighting helps out ambient light, and may be used to include drama. Place accent lights in a 30-degree angle to a surface to emphasize its texture, creating interesting shadows and glare. Use uplights behind large decorative plants to cast dramatic shadows and add interest to an otherwise dark corner. Take care with lighting angles to ensure the light does not produce glare in seating areas.
Paint With Light Levels
Using heavy switches, it allows you to create a more customized lighting design and alter the mood of the lighting and improve the drama of your decor and general lighting design. Install accent and ambient lights on dimmer switches, particularly in dining and living areas. As a general rule, task lighting needs to be three times brighter than the ambient lighting. Too much of a difference may add to eye strain. Task lighting needs to be smart enough to function safely or read without eyestrain.