Lighting

While some find a single lamp in a room adequate, (it’s not!) others are now seeing the value of properly, layered lighting. If you’re unsure about how much lighting you need, here’s my first tip: The more lighting, the better! You can always turn some off.

Proper lighting is generally a three-part layering process. 

Ambient lighting is general lighting that helps you see in a space. 

Task lighting is directed at an area like a counter in your kitchen to help you see what you’re doing, clearly.

Accent lighting is decorative, used to light an object like a piece of art. 

So how do we add the layers? In a kitchen. Whether you’re preparing food for your evening meal, washing dishes or unpacking your groceries, your whole kitchen needs light. A single ceiling fixture in the middle of the room will not be enough.

Recessed lighting installed throughout the ceiling surface, adding a crisp, even, overhead ambient light. It’s one layer of light that can work in hallways, kitchens and bathrooms as a primary source of lighting but don’t stop there.

Layered lighting in the dining room can add drama. With recessed ceiling lights, a centered, hanging light fixture for task and ambience, and wall sconces to add accents can make the room look fantastic. It’s not over-kill. Like I said, you can always turn some lights off. To help you with that, my next important rule is…  

Have you ever bought lighting from a showroom because it looked great only to get it home and realize it just doesn’t work for your space? 

Here’s my tip: Bring a measuring tape. Everything looks smaller in large showrooms.

One helpful tool you can use is Lightology's Chandelier Size Calculator