Not only is finding the right fit for your new furniture important when working on your home’s interior design, but lighting is an essential component when creating your interior design plan. It is sure to enhance the overall ambiance of your space when careful attention to detail is made during the selection process.
There are many choices when selecting lighting options, whether starting with a blank slate or updating your existing lighting fixtures. However, you should consider several things when choosing the proper lighting for your space.
First, always ask yourself how the area you are lighting will be used. Be aware of how natural light fills the space. Is it sufficient during the day, or will it need to be enhanced? Kitchens and other workspaces may require lighting that can be adjusted throughout the day.
Lighting is an essential component for your home’s design.
Overhead Lighting
Overhead lighting can be achieved with a variety of options. Recessed can and spot lighting are usually best installed during new construction. However, they are easily added to finished ceilings when ample space is available between the trusses.
• Can Lighting
Can lighting is excellent for illuminating built-in bookshelves or a wall niche. This option works well over islands, bars, and bathroom vanities, creating a sleek, uninterrupted look.
• Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting is available in various sizes. This type of lighting allows you to direct the light down or at an angle.
• Track Lighting
There are many fixture designs available in the form of track lighting. Track lighting is a perfect choice for highlighting wall art and sculptural pieces. The effect that lighting can have on an oil painting or textural piece is often stunning.
• Chandeliers
Chandeliers certainly stand alone in making a profound statement in any room. Chandeliers are available in various finishes, styles, and shapes, ranging from simple to ornate.
Once your selection has been made, install it at the appropriate height. A common mistake many people make is placing a chandelier in a foyer that is too small or hanging it too high. Instead, chandeliers should fill the space above one’s head. Splitting the distance between the top of the door and the ceiling is a good call.
Two-story foyers and great rooms lend themselves beautifully to tiered chandeliers. Many family rooms are used for viewing television, so be sure to select a chandelier that will not obstruct your line of vision. Dining rooms are perfect for showcasing chandeliers, and the options are limitless.
I have become a recent fan of using rectangular chandeliers over rectangular dining tables and round chandeliers over round tables. I am often asked how high a chandelier should be hung over a dining room table. I suggest thirty to thirty-six inches from the bottom of the fixture to the top of the table.
Table and Floor Lamps
Table and floor lamps always bring function and can serve as objects of art in a room. Please don’t dismiss the idea of lamps because of your existing overhead lighting; they are sure to bring a sense of ambiance into your room in the evening.
Remember that lampshades should never extend past the table’s edge or console top. Lamp height is also important, when you are choosing them. You don’t want to have a lightbulb shining in your face when sitting next to it. Many floor lamps come with defusers under the shade which eliminates this problem.
Dimmer Switches
One last yet essential recommendation is to consider installing dimmer switches when possible. You’ll enjoy the ability to change the mood at a switch flip!
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