Interior Lighting Design

INTERIOR LIGHTING DESIGN Lighting is an often overlooked element of interior design but when considered carefully, can add tremendous impact... It wll enhance the colour of your dé cor, provide a sense of warmth and atmosphere and, It can also be used to Identify dlfferent zones within your home. There are essentlally three types of Ilghting whlch, when comblned correctly, wll create your optimum llghting solution: ACCENT: Lighting that adds drama, delivering light to focal polnts. It can be used to qulckly change the mood and atmosphere In a room. GENERAL: This Is the llghting that simply TASK: Directed lghting to facltate close range work Ilke food preparatlon, roading or hobby crafts. makes the room vlslble. ENTRANCES, STAIRCASES & LANDINGS • To create a real wow factor, a statement pendant is a must. For a traditional look try a lantern light or, if symmetry to a scheme shadow that adds definition to the stair • If space is limited, wall lights and recessed downlights are a good choice. risers aiding safe transit. • A flush or semi-flush pendant can add style without opulence is your thing, go for fabulous crystal. • Large statement pendants that cascade through causing obstruction where ceiling heights are low. • Table lamps are an the air provide the excellent way of adding layers of light - a table lamp necessary wow faeter on a modern For landings, flush fittings or recessed down lights are placed either end of the console table adds a pleasing staircase. A bright overhead pendant positioned over the excellent choices, as are wall washers. stairs will create a LIVING ROOM • A subtle combination of general overhead or wall lighting, as well as a balanced mix of table, floor and task lamps should give the desired effect. • For rooms of up to 5 x 4m, a three arm pendant should give sufficient overhead illumination • For larger rooms with high ceilings, a larger scale fitting not only provides the required amount of light, but also visual drama • Floor standing uplighters give soft illumination to dark corners. STYLE TIP: An oversized statement lamp is the perfect punctuation to a well composed room. DINING ROOM • As you and your guests walk into the dining area, a carefully selected and centrally positioned celling fitment (approximately 60cm above the height of the table) emitting a soft pool of light will set the scene beautifully. • Uplighters, table lamps and accent lighting around the room's perimeter can be utilised to create an relaxed, cosy feel. • Dimmer switches are a great idea in dining rooms; not only to create atmos entertaining, but also to illuminate the room for preparation and cleaning! here for STYLE TIP - if you do not have the facility to hang a pendant over your dining table, a floor lamp with a long arching arm will create a stylish solution* * take care to ensure that all cables are safely managed. KITCHEN • A good ceiling light is important. A series of multi-head spot lights will allow light to be directed to key work stations. • Supplementary lighting can be added to the underneath of wall mounted cupboards, cooker hoods or at plinth level • Lighting on a freestanding island can be exploited to create a fantastic focal point for the room. • In kitchens where there is room for a seating area, table and floor lights can be used to zone the space and create a cosy and relaxing feel HOME OFFICE • General lighting can be supplemented by wall lights, portable lamps and uplighters if space permits. • Where space is at a premium, consider a mother and child style lamp which combines an uplighter with an adjustable reading lamp • Look for a lamp that is adjustable for height and will reach over the area in which you are working. • Make sure the on/off switch is easily accessible to avoid iitation every time you use your lamp. BATHROOM • It is advisable to avoid lighting which is too bright as polished surfaces may cause glare - diffused wall or ceiling lights are better. • The main light should be switched on a pull cord or a light switch situated outside the bathroom. Glass or ceramic lights are best. • It is wise to avoid overly elaborate designs which will be difficult to clean and also best avoided are fittings containing wood, leather or fabric as they can degrade in the humid atmosphere. A simple wall light positioned above a mirror will do the job but an illuminated mirror is an excellent choice for shaving or applying make-up. DINING ROOM To relax and unwind, wall lights and table lamps are a great choice as their soft pools of light create a relaxing atmosphere. • For young children a bright central ceiling light will provide a good solution, particularty if fitted with a dimmer switch. As children get older, a reading lamp is a great addition. Safety is paramount in children's bedrooms, make sure that cables are properly managed and that the lighting you choose is age appropriate. STYLE TIP: for a `boutique style bedroom' choose large 'statement piece lighting; pare down small ornaments and go big and bold for a designer look. Sucketstore Information courtesy of the Lighting Industry Association www.socketstore.co.uk