Understanding how to appropriately use lighting is a fundamental lesson in interior design. Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as just flipping a switch though. Everything from your room’s colour palette, the position of your furniture, and the type of lighting you decide to use will all play a part in the results you’ll have.
Encourage Natural Light
Arguably the best kind of lighting for any home is natural lighting. If you’re fortunate enough to live a home with a lot of sunlight, make the most of it by minimising window dressings, hanging mirrors opposite to your windows, and trimming any greenery outside that could be blocking out the sun. The position of the light will change throughout the day and the seasons, so pay close attention to how it affects your home. In the UK, we generally don’t have to worry about screening strong sunlight, which can be uncomfortable to sit in for long periods, so you should be able to encourage any natural light you do get.
Remember the Details
They say the devil is in the details, and nowhere is this more true than in interior decorating. Accent lighting can add texture to a room and, while the effects might seem subtle, can help to create an overall consistency within the space. You should also remember to take advantage of otherwise underutilised areas to give your home a more personal touch. Installing small lights along your stairway can create a contemporary, sleek design. These are available in a large variety of shapes and sizes so you can easily create symmetry by matching other features of the room. Not only does this look great, it could also help to prevent accidents late at night.
Make a Statement
While we’ve learn that well thought-out lighting can affect the ambience of a room, that doesn’t mean it’s purely a practical tool. Sometimes we’re just looking for something that makes a statement. We often see this with chandeliers, both traditional or modern, when used in hallways or in an entrance. Make sure that you accurately measure the space so that you know what kind of fixtures will be appropriate though. While a large chandelier might look fantastic when it’s set up in big retail store, it might not be the best fit if you’re buying for a smaller setting. Fortunately, there are a large range of options available. See what’s on offer and see what gets your creative juices flowing.
The right blend of different lighting techniques can make or break the overall feel of a room, yet it often gets forgotten about. Let us know all about your favourite tips and tricks in the comments below.
Sophia
