Let's Talk Lighting
Lighting is the jewelry to accent your outfit, its the icing on the cake - the grand final piece de resistance in finalizing your design.
Why have boring lighting? The right lighting can literally ‘brighten up’ your room and draw you into the space. Lighting enhances the overall design, your eye catches it as soon as you enter the room, it sets a ‘mood’. Today’s blog will cover some important essentials when it comes to selecting lights, including:
How to manage overhead lighting
What to do with a North facing room
Avoiding common mistakes: Bulbs and Exterior Lighting
1) Tackling Overhead Lighting, Older Homes, and Layering:
What do I do if I don’t have any overhead lights? No problem! Plug in a pendant lamp over your kitchen table or nook and hang it up with a hook, and whala! (make sure to shop for a pretty cord, check out Wayfair.com)
What if I have an older home? If you live in an older home and you do not care for the old glass shade, switch it out to a more updated shade or replace it with a vintage shade. You’ll be amazed at how this one small change can lighten up your home (and it’s really not expensive to do). Research online Rejuvenation.com or House of antique hardware - or simply visit your local lighting store.
Recommendation: You want something eye catching, not only to complement the room but also the overall space. The light should be inviting, and not harsh. As for placement, look to unexpected places such as shelves or nooks. Sometimes consider going outside the box and thinking of other ways to add lighting such as with glass jars and tea lights with timers. It’s affordable and adds charm.
How can I layer my lighting? - I like to mix up my lighting by adding floor/ceiling and recessed lights so my light bounces or ‘hits’ every area of the room to create an inviting, welcoming and cozy feeling to the space. Install dimmer switches so you can control the intensity of the lighting, romantic dinner? Go ahead and dim those lights.
scale is important
choose the right size
2) Dimensions and Direction:
It’s important to take stock of your room’s dimensions and scale: measure accordingly, too often I see homeowners using too small of a light source and the light ends up looking ‘dinky’, out of place, and ultimately not providing adequate light.
Next, think about the rooms direction. Do you have a North facing room? Rooms facing North generally do not have a lot of natural light, and could benefit from additional lighting. In addition to your overhead lighting, consider adding a floor lamp or table lamp to enhance the space. Sconces can also work great here!
2) Some Common Mistakes/Misconceptions
Bulbs:
Watch out for those clear trendy bare bulbs! While they are certainly cool looking, the reality is they are not the most flattering, and your guests can be especially annoyed if they have to stare into a clear bulb. Tip: bulbs should match, so switch them out to unify the space and use good quality warm LEDs. Pay a visit to your local lighting store for assistance.
Exterior Lighting:
It’s important to pick the right fixture that will complement your homes color as well as its architecture. Remember to not use too small of a fixture. Sometimes bigger is better, but always measure to be sure. Also check your areas building codes: you may be limited to ‘dark’ sky compliant lighting. Don’t fret! There are many beautiful lights to choose from in this category.
Compliment your architecture
(yes thats me in the reflection…)
The perfect barn lights really enhanced this home
Vibrant evening lighting really brings out the exterior of this home
Always remember: This is your home, and your design should be a reflection of you and the lights that speak to you. Don’t be afraid to ask a friend to look over your shoulder or a designer for their perspective.
Be safe everybody! sunshiny days are ahead,
Kathy