Account 
Interior designers bring unique knowledge and expertise to the projects they work on. This applies to every aspect of the process — from bigger and more obvious tasks like space planning and color theory to smaller and less noticeable things, like selecting fixtures and finishes. In well-designed spaces, all of these elements come together to create a cohesive final result.
While the importance of lighting is often overlooked by homeowners, designers know how critical lighting is — from both aesthetic and functional perspectives. Not only does it ensure adequate illumination, but it also adds visual interest while helping to set the tone for a space. The right lighting can help a room feel larger or more intimate, relaxing or invigorating, and so on.
All of which begs the question: how do designers choose the right lighting for a space? Here’s a closer look at designer considerations in interior lighting design.
Lighting Type
There are three types of lighting: ambient (or background), task lighting, and accent lighting. Together, they form the basis of all good lighting plans.
When designing a space, this is one of the first considerations for designers: assessing which lighting types are necessary, and how they will work together. This involves reflecting on who will be using the room and for what. The more a designer understands the homeowners’ goals for the space, the better they can support those goals with ceiling lighting, table lamps, floor lamps, desk lamps, wall lights, spotlights, picture lights, and other lighting options.
Take kitchens, for example. Workspaces, such as islands, require ample task lighting, which is why pendant light fixtures and other hanging light fixtures are often centered above them.
Size and Shape
Light fixtures are available in a huge array of shapes and sizes. In the case of size, designers rely on space planning, formulas, and other tools to identify the best size chandelier, flush mount light, or sconce for a particular area of the home.
In general, larger light fixtures are suitable for larger rooms, while smaller light fixtures are appropriate in areas with limited square footage.
While the shape of lighting fixtures does involve some preference, it’s also driven by the shape of the room and the furniture in it. For example, chandeliers, pendants, and other non-linear light fixtures are ideal for hanging over round dining room tables. On the other hand, linear light fixtures are an elegant and streamlined choice for rectangular dining tables.
Style, Color, and Finish
Light fixtures should complement their surrounding spaces. In many cases, the design style of light fixtures takes its cue from the design style of the home — whether that be modern, traditional, coastal, minimalist, Bohemian, farmhouse, shabby chic, Hollywood glam, rustic, industrial, or something else.
For example, the clean lines of modern light fixtures will seamlessly blend into a minimalist space This isn’t hard and fast, however. If a room is lacking that certain something, a different style light fixture can add visual interest.
The same applies to color and finish. When chosen to complement the existing color palette and fixtures, they promote harmony and flow whereas contrasting colors and finishes have a bolder and more dynamic effect.
Bulb Type, Wattage, and Lumens
Light bulbs may seem insignificant, but light bulb type has implications for everything from a room’s mood to energy efficiency.
The four main types of light bulb include common incandescent bulbs, which are cheap but lack efficiency and burn hot to the touch; versatile and energy-efficient compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs; highly focused halogen bulbs; and innovative and highly energy-efficient light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs.
Wattage (the amount of energy a lightbulb uses) and lumens (the lightbulb’s brightness) are also considerations.
Ultimately, the right bulb type will also be influenced by many factors, ranging from purpose to budget. A designer will factor in all of these things when selecting light fixtures.
Craftsmanship and Quality
Finally, designers are concerned with the craftsmanship and quality of light fixtures. Will they hold up over time in terms of design and durability? Do they have the potential to become focal points or heirloom pieces in your home?
One adage insists, “Craftsmanship is patience, purpose, and beauty.” All of these qualities are highly valued in interior design. As such, designers will seek out luxury interior lighting and other designer lighting fixtures that embody them.
Discover the Joy of High-Quality Lighting at FLC
A guiding principle of good design is that it serves both form and function. The same applies to lighting: the two go hand in hand.
By acknowledging all the considerations identified here, designers ensure that a light fixture not only meets the needs of a project, but also enhances the interior it inhabits. (The same applies when selecting unique outdoor lighting.)
At Fashion Light Center, we take great pride in offering truly extraordinary lighting from the world’s leading lighting brands. Whether you’re looking to elevate your home’s lighting plan, sourcing living room lighting ideas, or have a question about lighting fixtures, we’d love to help. To schedule your consultation with a member of the FLC team, contact us today.
