Do you ever feel like your space is missing that unique touch, even after putting in a lot of effort to decorate? Sometimes, the problem may not be your furniture or decorative pieces- the missing piece can be your lighting. Lighting is often underestimated in a space. But the good news is– I got you!
Today, I’m sharing 5 tips on how to choose the perfect lighting for any room!
1) Consider the Room’s Functionality
This tip to me is the most important one! When choosing lighting, many forget to think about what the space’s purpose is. Is it a living room for large gatherings? Is it a work office for one person? Is it a frequently-used kitchen with a small dining area? This can determine the type and amount of lighting needed for the targeted space. Consider these questions before choosing your space:
Is the room multi-functional?
Does it need more functional or decorative lighting?
How much lightning is needed? A lot or little?
Usually, different types of rooms have some common rules to follow.
For living rooms, use layered lighting. Layered lighting means you use several different types of lighting for multiple functions to avoid relying on one central fixture.
To start, add a large, overhead light fixture. Secondary lighting could be added through smaller lamps on side tables or short floor lamps. For instance, I used a sconce light above a large art piece in my entryway.
Similarly, layered lighting is also good for bedrooms. After adding bigger, overhead light, secondary lighting can be added through side-table lamps or sconces. For bedrooms, I suggest having warmer and softer lighting, with some dimming ability. This adds an extra cozy feeling to the space.
For kitchens, focus on adding more bright, functional lighting rather than for decoration. I suggest having recess and under-the-cabinet lighting. Both provide a proper amount of lighting to be able to do kitchen-related tasks without problem. If you want to add decorative lighting, use pendant lighting, which keeps lighting functional, simple, and stylish.
2) Consider “Color Temperature”
Color temperature is determined by the warmth or coolness of lighting, which plays a huge role in setting the mood of a space. The kilowatts of the bulb should be based on the type of room and the vibe you are going for. For a cozy ambiance in your living room or bedroom, use a warm white light, which ranges from 2700K to 3000K. For kitchens, bathrooms, and offices, a room that needs more visibility and energy, go for a neutral or cool white light.
3 ) Scale Lighting to the Size of A Room
Sometimes, a space may look off due to the size of the lighting fixture chosen. To stop this, avoid picking bigger fixtures in smaller rooms, and smaller fixtures in larger rooms. Measuring the room itself (length and width), as well as considering the ceiling height will help you pick the right fixture with fitting proportions.
4) Use Lighting with a Dimming Ability
Using dimmable lights in your space, from larger light fixtures to sconces, allows you to adjust the brightness based on the time of day or mood of the space. For instance, brighter lighting is good for when you need to work or clean. Softer, dimmer lighting is good, relaxing, and entertaining.
5) Use Lighting as the “Unique Pop”
Using lighting is a great way to add a unique, decorative element to the space. For instance, you can use bold fixtures like chandlers, pendant lights, or sconces with special designs like geometrics or different materials like wood or brass. You can also use lighting pieces with vibrant hues or colorful accents to add a pop of color to your space.
Here is a great list of lighting fixtures, lamps, and more for your space: Click here
And that’s it my friends—five tips to help you choose the perfect lighting for every room! Remember you won’t always be able to follow every single one of these rules, but next time if you are decorating your space, make sure to consider lighting as a unique way to provide any space with the pop it needs! By considering different areas such as color temperature, fixture size, and dimming options, and letting your lighting make a statement, you’ll transform your space into something functional and uniquely yours. Tune in next week for The Ultimate Guest Bedroom Checklist: 10 Must-Haves.