How to Choose the Right Lighting for a Space
No matter how aesthetically pleasing a room's design and decor are, its appearance will feel substantially different under various lighting.
No matter how aesthetically pleasing a room's design and decor are, its appearance will feel substantially different under various lighting. A room can go from bleak to chic at the flip of a switch.
However, picking the best light for a room is not always easy. Here are some tips to make it more straightforward:
Mix layers of light
Every room can benefit from mixing and matching lighting types. Ambient light sets the mood, task lights emphasize where it's useful, and accent lights show off the room's less practical beauty.
Utilize functional light
Some rooms need more brightness than others. Specifically, the kitchen needs bright task lighting free of shadows for safe cooking. On the other hand, bedrooms call for softer and more relaxing ambient light to wind down before sleep.
Pay attention to bulb type
Many bulb types are available, including traditional incandescent, fluorescent, and LED bulbs. While LEDs don't match the appearance of older bulb types, their main selling point is energy efficiency, which is good for energy bills and the environment. Furthermore, high-quality LEDs may cost significantly more but will last longer and can look just as good as incandescent bulbs.
Think about color temperature
Color temperature sets the mood of the room. Lower "Kelvins" of light color temperature means warmer, yellowish light, while higher numbers give off cooler, bluish light. For example, a typical incandescent bulb is 2,700K. It's yellowish but still bright.
Warm lights suit most home areas, such as living rooms and bedrooms. Meanwhile, cooler lights may be better for work areas like garages.
Consider size and scale
Keep proportions in mind. A large chandelier will overwhelm a small room, but tiny lamps will get lost in a spacious one. Pick the fixtures that fit the room's size or have enough of them to work.
Use complementary styles
Light should be functional first, but style isn't to be neglected. The light fixtures should complement the overall look of the room. For example, if the room is traditional and maximalist, go with ornate fixtures, but if it's more modern, pick sleek, geometric, simpler designs.
Employ dimmers
Use dimmers to see how they change the look and feel of a room. Dimmers adjust light levels to suit different times of day and activities. They're particularly useful in dining and living rooms, where changing the ambiance boosts enjoyment and relaxation.
DIY or professional installation
Of course, it's easy to change a light bulb on your own, but changing fixtures or adding elements like recessed lights–not so much. Light is impactful, so talk to an expert electrician to learn more about your options and schedule professional assistance when necessary.
SG Electrical offers residential, commercial, and industrial clients in Coachella Valley professional emergency electrical work, hot tub and sauna, landscape and security lighting, and lighting installations. We strictly adhere to industry standards and help clients achieve optimum energy efficiency. Licensed, bonded, and insured. Call now!
