There may be many design elements which make up a room, such as the colour of the walls, the furniture, the fixtures and decorative elements, and so on – but there is one element which can add to all these other elements and make or break a particular space. We’re talking about lighting, of course – and choosing the right lighting can definitely make a huge impact on the beauty and functionality of a room or area. The right lighting can affect how we feel about the room, and the proper lighting can also serve as a focal element – a unique focal point which can truly change the room’s aspect in different ways. If you are trying to find the right lighting for any room, here, then, is how you can select the best and most ideal lighting.
Know its purpose and functionality
You have to know what lighting can (and cannot) do for a room or space. Why is lighting important, for instance? Lighting is important because it can affect how you feel about a room, both physically and emotionally. Also, it doesn’t mean that if a room has more lighting, it will look better – think about quality over quantity. The right lighting design also means matching the level of lighting to the task which is to be performed in the area or a specific location – a kitchen island would benefit from bright lighting, for instance, whilst a nice reading lamp may serve you well in the living area if you just need to read in a cosy corner. Also, when designing lighting for a particular space, you always need to consider both the natural and artificial lighting, so the lighting is maximised.
Layer it on
Many tend to rely on a mere ceiling light as a primary source of light. But one of the best things you can do for any space is to figure out how you are planning to use that space and think of lighting in layers. For example, there are four different kinds of lighting: ambient, general, task, and accent. Ambient light is usually soft, and it gives a room an ambient texture and glow. General lighting can be a combination of different lighting sources, but it is often identified with overhead lights. Task or directional lighting, on the other hand, is lighting for a specific area where you perform a task, whilst accent lighting is used to add ‘drama’ to a particular area and is often used as a decorative element.
The best design will usually start with accent and task lighting. When you are mapping out your space, draw a diagram of the contemporary lighting it needs whilst thinking about how you are planning to use that space. You can add in what you need for task lighting (such as a floor lamp), and then add in what you need as accent lighting (such as a wall sconce). Afterwards, you can add the general lighting (such as a chandelier or pendant light above a table). Remember that each room or space typically needs about 2 to 3 light sources, so you can have a nice balance.
Know your style
You also need to have a good idea of the style you want, especially since there are plenty of choices out there. Have a look around your home – what style does it project? Is it rustic, modern and contemporary, or classic? After you define the style of your home or room, you can then look for lighting fixtures which can fit this style. But some contrast is also welcome, so you can mix and match different styles for a more unique look.
