Lighting for Functionality And Style
I don’t think many of us pay nearly enough attention to the lighting in our homes. Lighting is one of those fundamental elements in the creation of a well-designed space that’s not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves a functional purpose. In this piece I’m going to briefly cover a few things like lighting techniques, fixture choices, and the significance of layering light.
Natural light is very often seen as one of those prized assets in the world of interior design, and rightly so, it offers both beauty and cost-effectiveness. When we maximize the natural light in our spaces, we create an open, airy ambiance, and we’re now reducing any reliance on artificial lighting during the daylight hours. This approach aligns with the WELL Building Standard’s emphasis on natural light for enhancing well-being. One simple piece of advice to help you make the most of the natural light in your living space: keep your windows clean and unobstructed, this will allow for ample sunlight to flood the space. If you’re concerned about privacy, sheer curtains or blinds that filter light are an option. Additionally, any reflective surfaces like mirrors or glossy finishes will bounce light, creating the allure of spaciousness and brightness.
When it comes to selecting your light fixtures, striking that balance between functionality and style becomes paramount. Start by assessing the purpose of each room and its specific lighting requirements. For example, task lighting would be beneficial in areas like the kitchen and the bathroom, ambient lighting sets the overall mood in your living space, and accent lighting works to accentuate any focal points like artwork or architectural features the space may have. Finally, take note of the style and design of your fixtures to ensure they harmonize well with your home’s overall aesthetic.
Layering different types of lighting—ambient, task, and accent—is another key element to crafting a well-lit, and inviting environment. This concept also resonates with the WELL Building Standard, which promotes the layering of light to improve visual comfort and functionality. Ambient lighting will provide general illumination, ensuring a comfortable level of brightness throughout the room, task lighting focuses on specific areas where activities like reading, cooking, or working will generally take place. Use fixtures like desk lamps, under-mount cabinet lighting, or adjustable wall sconces to achieve this. Your accent lighting is in charge of adding all that depth and drama, it works to highlight any architectural features in the room, artwork, or decorative objects, it adds what we like to call in the design realm, visual interest.
To wrap it up, it’s important to understand the significant role that proper lighting plays in enhancing your overall well-being, as well as the atmosphere and functionality of your home. The guidance outlined in this article can help in the design of a well-lit, aesthetically pleasing space that aligns with your unique preferences and lifestyle.
