Great lighting is crucial to the success of any interior space therefore it’s worth thinking about early on in the process. To understand what lighting is needed for a room let’s take a look at the three different types:
GENERAL OR BACKGROUND LIGHTING
General Lighting or Background Lighting is just that. It should be unobtrusive. Downlights are a common example of this sort of lighting and these days LED downlights are very energy efficient therefore less lights are often required in order for them to achieve their purpose.
TASK LIGHTING
Task Lighting should be suited for specific tasks. This type of lighting is a must for kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and of course for tasks such as reading, writing or doing handicraft. For the last three activities a good lamp can be the answer.
ACCENT/DECORATIVE LIGHTING
With Accent or Decorative Lighting it’s essential they have the wow factor. Often the focal point of a room, they really are the icing on the cake because they’re the lookers!
Accent lighting can be in the form of pendant lights. Wall lights and floor or table lamps can fall under this category too. Always keep in mind the scale of a room when choosing your accent lights.
So armed with the above knowledge here’s a few things you should be thinking about when it comes to choosing the right lights for a room?
1. When and how is the room used?
2. What mood are you trying to create?
3. How much light do you need in the room?
4. How will the lights and lamps look lit and unlit because they really can make or break the look of a room?
Now go forth and light up your world!!