How to Find the Ideal Lighting Solution for Your Living Space
Lighting is crucial in creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere in our homes, but it's often underestimated when designing and decorating our living spaces. Even if you reside in a sunny place like Florida, where natural light is abundant, having well-thought-out lighting fixtures can make a significant difference in your home's aesthetics and functionality.
With the vast array of lighting styles, designs, and options available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed when choosing the perfect lighting setup. That's why we've reached out to industry experts who generously shared their valuable insights on illuminating your home effectively.
Don't underestimate the power of underlighting.
Underlighting is just as essential as chandeliers or pendants when illuminating your home. Powder rooms, in particular, offer a great opportunity for underlighting, whether placed beneath a floating vanity or under a quartzite countertop. This clever lighting technique creates a captivating effect in the evening that will leave your guests in awe. Take a look at Michelle's stunning underlighting design in the photo above.
Create captivating layers of light.
When illuminating spaces with style, it's crucial to create light layers. This involves incorporating general lighting, task lighting, and ambient lighting. While general lighting is the primary light source, task lighting, such as pendants and sconces, provides focused illumination for specific activities like food preparation or makeup. Ambient lighting, achieved through lamps or dimmers added to your general lighting, brings a softer glow perfect for winding down and relaxing.
Carefully assess your space.
Before diving into your lighting plan, take a moment to observe the areas surrounding your home. Identify which spaces require focal brightness, where ambient lighting is needed, and where you can play with various lighting effects. Analyzing your space from all angles will provide valuable insights for lighting setup planning.
Stay in the know about lighting trends.
Keeping up with the latest lighting trends can help you narrow your options and select a light fixture that aligns with current styles and your budget. In today's interior design world, matte black, nickel, and mixed metal finishes are the top three trends to consider.
Prioritize layering and aesthetics.
Finding the right fixture for your space is important, but ensuring that you provide adequate illumination for every function is equally crucial. With evolving lighting trends and technologies, no fixture can cater to the diverse needs of a multi-functional space. That's why consulting a lighting designer is invaluable when selecting the perfect aesthetic and ensuring you have the right fixtures to complement the purpose and look of your home.
Handle recessed lighting with care.
Avoid using recessed lighting in a way that gives your space an office-like appearance. Each recessed lighting fixture should serve a specific function and be placed accordingly.
Brighten your walls
Don't forget to illuminate the walls when adding lighting to your home. Instead of dimly lit walls that make a room feel small, place lamps near the walls or direct lighting towards them. That will create an illusion of more space and enhance the overall pleasantness of your living area.
