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Lighting is a central aspect of interior design. However, it’s also one of the most frequently overlooked parts of the home decorating process. Here’s a closer look at why lighting design matters, along with tips for optimizing the lighting in your own home.
Creating A More Functional Home
A home isn’t a museum – it’s meant to be lived in. And one of the simplest ways to improve the livability of your residence is through lighting. Depending on how you’ll be using a particular space, lighting design can serve a variety of purposes, from increasing safety by illuminating dark areas to providing light to cook and eat by. Functional lighting can be broken down into three basic types – ambient, task, and accent.
Ambient lighting, also known as general lighting, comprises background levels of light in a room. Typically, it provides the minimal level of illumination necessary for performing everyday tasks comfortably and efficiently. Common ambient lighting fixtures include chandeliers, ceiling-mounted fixtures, and track lights. Task lighting is used to illuminate specific tasks, such as reading or writing. These fixtures may include downlighting, pendant lighting, table lamps, and desk lamps.
Finally, accent lighting is used to draw attention to a specific point of interest in a space and create a desired effect. For example, accent lighting can be used as a focal point or to make a room look larger. Common types of accent fixtures include track lighting and indoor wall lighting, such as hanging wall lanterns.
While each of these lighting types offers functional benefits on its own, together, they have a symbiotic effect. Therefore, it’s important to incorporate indoor lighting fixtures that fall into each category when creating an interior design scheme.
Enhancing the Beauty of Your Property
Interior lighting isn’t just about function – it’s also about form. For example, choosing interior lighting fixtures that coordinate with your furniture can enhance the overall aesthetic of the space while facilitating a harmonious and cohesive effect. The right lighting can also make colors pop, showcase fabrics and textures, and direct attention to a unique architectural feature.
However, beautiful light fixtures can also be works of art in and of themselves. As such, they have the potential not just to complement your decor, but also to elevate it.
Fostering a Welcoming Atmosphere
In addition to enhancing the aesthetics of your house, thoughtful lighting can take things even further by improving how it makes you feel. According to award-winning interior designer Martyn Lawrence, “Lighting is everything. It creates atmosphere, drama, and intrigue in a room.”
Indeed, lighting has the potential to set the desired tone for everything from a quiet evening at home to a special event or gathering. Again, this is not just about buying a single light fixture, but about having a well-executed lighting plan.
One last thing to remember when it comes to lighting your home is that, in addition to indoor lighting, exterior lighting is also a critical consideration for homeowners. From helping visitors find your home to illuminating pathways and boosting curb appeal, a smart outdoor lighting scheme delivers a winning combination of substance and style.
The Bottom Line – The Right Lighting Design Scheme Can Transform Your Home
The takeaway? Interior and exterior light fixtures have the potential to transform how your home functions, looks, and feels. Not sure where to start when it comes to creating a lighting design scheme for your residence? Look to Fashion Light Center, one of the most trusted lighting stores in CT, for assistance. Call us today at (203) 869-3098 to schedule your professional lighting consultation.
