Lighting and Interior Design

Published by: Elizabeth Gormley
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

It's true that simply altering the lighting can drastically change the appearance of any given room. There are two sources of light, natural and artificial. Natural light is what comes in through the windows, and also from the interior, fireplaces and lit candles. The sun should be a factor when decorating a room. Do the windows face east or west? It is imperative to consider this when deciding on window treatments. Your bedroom might face the rising sun each morning, or your kitchen might take in an exceptionally strong sunset each night while you’re preparing dinner. Natural lighting is called "kinetic lighting" because the sun moves, waxing and waning through the days and the seasons. You can't control the sun, but you can control the amount of its light that comes into your house, with the proper blinds and treatments.

Accent Lighting
This type of artificial lighting illuminates a specific object or point of interest in your home. Do you wish to show off a sculpture of which you are particularly proud? Or an exotic plant? Or an interesting architectural feature of your home? Accent lighting includes uplights and spotlights, and requires only a single bulb and a shield to direct the luminescence.

Ambient Lighting
This is simple, single source lighting that is intended to make an entire space glow and reduce shadows. Included in ambient lighting are chandeliers, wall sconces, floor lamps, ceiling fixtures, and even Japanese paper lanterns. Ambient lighting will make a room seem less dimensional. Adding a dimmer to your ambient lights is a good way of keeping your brightness options open, throughout the home.

Task Lighting
Task lighting is just what it sounds like—lighting that assists in tasks. This is everything from a bedside light for reading to a light over your kitchen island, so you can see well for cooking and food prep. Task lighting should be shielded, usually with a shade or guard that will prevent glare. It is a practical way to accomplish and enjoy hobbies and interior activities—without straining your eyes.

Many interior design experts believe it is best to use a triangular pattern when lighting a room. For example, a den may have two table lamps at each end table beside the sofa, and a floor lamp behind the recliner. A dining room may have a chandelier with a dimmer option, and two ornate wall sconces. Kitchens should be the brightest for cooking, food prep, etc. Versatile rooms like family rooms and living rooms may have several options. These are places where one might read, watch television, knit, or entertain. TV is best enjoyed without a glare from a bright light, but if you’re sewing, you will want the brightness for all the detailed work.

Today, energy-saving options are plentiful, like compact florescent bulbs and LEDs. Solar-powered panels are becoming ubiquitous and less expensive, one more eco-friendly way to illuminate your home any way you would like.

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