FAQ

HOW TO CHOOSE THE IDEAL LIGHTING FIXTURES FOR YOUR SPACE

Before you start choosing lighting fixtures, it's important to understand the different types of lighting and their functions.

There are three main types of lighting:-

Ambient Lighting: Also known as general lighting, this type of lighting provides overall illumination to a space. It typically serves as the primary source of light in a room, ensuring sufficient brightness for daily activities.

Task Lighting: Task lighting is used to illuminate specific areas or tasks, such as reading, cooking, or working at a desk. It emits brighter illumination than ambient lighting, effectively highlighting specific areas or objects.

Accent Lighting: Accent lighting is employed to create a focal point or accentuate specific features, such as a piece of artwork, a plant, or a sculpture. It adds visual interest to a space and is usually the most dramatic type of lighting.

Now let's take a look at some of the most common types of lighting fixtures and their functions:-

Pendant Lights: These lights hang from the ceiling by a cord, chain, or rod. They come in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials and can be used for ambient, task, or accent lighting depending on the design and placement.

Lamps: Table lamps, floor lamps, and desk lamps are examples of lamps used for task lighting. They come in various styles and provide both functional lighting and visual interest to a space.

LED Downlights: These are recessed lights installed in the ceiling to provide ambient lighting. They are often used in modern or minimalist spaces and are a suitable choice for rooms with low ceilings.

Outdoor Lighting: Outdoor lighting serves purposes such as safety, security, and aesthetics. Examples include landscape lighting, security lights, and pathway lighting.

Ceiling Lights: These lights are mounted to the ceiling and provide ambient lighting. They come in various styles and sizes, including chandeliers, flush mounts, and semi-flush mounts.

Wall Lights: Wall lights are mounted to the wall and offer ambient, task, or accent lighting depending on the design and placement. They come in a variety of styles, adding both functionality and visual interest to a space.

Spotlights: Spotlights are used to highlight specific areas or objects and generally emit brighter illumination than ambient lighting. They can be used for both task and accent lighting.

Track Lights: These lights are mounted on a track and can be adjusted to direct light where needed. They are typically used for task or accent lighting and are suitable for rooms with high ceilings.

Bathroom Lighting: Bathroom lighting usually combines ambient and task lighting. Examples include vanity lights, overhead lights, and shower lights.

Solar Lights: Solar lights are outdoor lights powered by solar panels. They are an eco-conscious choice and can be used for safety, security, or aesthetic purposes.

Smart Lighting: Smart lighting can be controlled by a smartphone, tablet, or voice assistant. It allows homeowners to automate their lighting and create a personalized lighting experience.

LED Strip Lighting: LED strip lighting is a flexible, adhesive-backed tape used for task or accent lighting. It is commonly used for under-cabinet lighting, cove lighting, or backlighting.

Commercial Lighting: Commercial lighting is designed for businesses, offices, and other commercial spaces. Examples include track lighting, pendant lights, and LED panel lights.

KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING THE RIGHT LIGHTING FIXTURES

Consider the function of the space: The function of the space will play a significant role in determining the type of fixture you choose. Consider whether you require task lighting, ambient lighting, or a combination of both.

Think about the style of your space: The style of your space will also influence the selection of the appropriate fixture. Consider whether your space has a modern, traditional, or eclectic style, and choose fixtures that complement it.

Choose fixtures that fit your budget: Lighting fixtures can range in price from budget-friendly to high-end. Determine your budget before making a purchase and search for fixtures that align with it.

Consider energy efficiency: Energy-efficient fixtures can help you save money on your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint. Look for fixtures with ENERGY RATING or LED bulbs.

Pay attention to the size of the fixture: The size of the fixture should be proportionate to the space it will occupy. A small fixture in a large room may appear out of place, while a large fixture in a small room may be overwhelming.

Look for fixtures that provide the appropriate amount of light: The amount of light emitted by a fixture depends on the type of bulb and the fixture itself. Consider the function of the space and select fixtures that provide the desired level of illumination.

Think about the placement of the fixture: The placement of the fixture will affect the amount and quality of light in the space. Determine whether you need overhead lighting, wall-mounted lighting, or a combination of both.

Choose fixtures that are easy to install: Some fixtures may necessitate professional installation, while others can be easily installed by homeowners. Consider your DIY skills and select fixtures that you can install with ease.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON LIGHTING MISTAKES TO AVOID

Lack of Lighting Control

Maintaining control over your lighting is crucial, and various tools like light dimmers, motion sensors, timers, and automated systems can assist you in achieving that. By utilizing dimmers, you can find a middle ground when unsure about the brightness level of a room. This flexibility allows you to adjust lighting based on changing moods and helps save on energy bills.

Improper Sizing of Light Fixtures

One common error in home lighting design is using fixtures that are the wrong size. For instance, placing a chandelier that is too small in a dining room or using bulky desk lamps in the living room can create a sense of disproportion. To prevent this mistake, it is advisable to measure fixtures in the showroom and consult with a knowledgeable lighting professional before making a purchase. Relying on visual estimation alone in showrooms can be challenging since fixtures may appear smaller due to the larger space. Seeking guidance from an expert will help you avoid selecting fixtures that won't work well in your space.

Mismatched Wall Paint Colours and Fixtures

When multiple lighting fixtures are tested in a room, and you still can't achieve the desired lighting effect, it could be due to a mismatch with the wall paint colour. Although it may seem obvious, even slight differences in hues between the lighting fixture and the wall paint can create varying effects. Generally, lighter wall colours tend to complement brighter fixtures more effectively. Paying attention to this colour coordination can help create the desired ambiance in your space.

Excessive Furniture in the Room

Although it may not seem directly related to lighting, having an abundance of furniture in a room can significantly impact the lighting effects. The colour and quantity of furniture can affect the brightness of a fixture as certain colours or objects can reflect or absorb light. When the room is crowded with furniture, it increases the likelihood of creating shadows. Conversely, with fewer items and brighter coloured furniture, light can bounce more efficiently, resulting in better illumination throughout the room.

Neglecting Energy-Efficient Bulbs

While homeowners are gradually embracing LED light bulbs, there are still those who have not realized the benefits. LED bulbs offer a wider range of light options, as they operate across a larger temperature scale. This versatility allows for better control over warm and cool colours, giving you more flexibility in creating desired lighting effects.

Installing Only a Single Light Source in a Space

While a statement light fixture can add glamour to your space, it's essential to ensure that you have adequate lighting for practical purposes as well. Relying on a single light source in a room often leaves certain areas in darkness. To address this issue, it is crucial to employ layered lighting techniques. Layered lighting involves the strategic use of multiple light sources to appropriately illuminate different areas within your space. By incorporating ambient and task lighting, you can achieve a well-rounded and functional lighting setup.

Excessive Use of Downlights

One common lighting mistake is the excessive use of downlights, often resulting from relying solely on a single light source. It's easy to get carried away and attempt to illuminate every corner of a room, leading to an overabundance of downlights on the ceiling. However, downlights are not always the best option for achieving proper room illumination as they do not effectively reflect light from the walls. Moreover, an excessive number of downlights can create an unattractive and harsh lighting environment, stripping away warmth and character that can be brought by other lighting elements like pendants or lamps. While downlights are ideal for providing ambient light, it is essential to incorporate other lighting elements for task lighting and accent lighting, ensuring a functional and inviting space.

Incorrect Colour Temperature

Selecting the wrong colour temperature is a common lighting mistake that many of us have experienced. Installing a light bulb that has a completely different shade of white compared to the rest of the bulbs in your home can be frustrating. Getting the colour temperature right is crucial for setting the desired atmosphere in a space. By choosing the appropriate colour temperature for your bulbs, such as understanding the differences between cool white and warm white, you can effectively enhance the tone and ambiance of each area in your home.

Neglecting Shadows

Improper placement of lighting fixtures can result in unwanted shadows. While shadows can add ambiance in certain areas of your home, they can hinder task completion in others. For instance, in spaces like the kitchen and bathroom, shadows are not suitable. Installing multiple light sources can help alleviate this issue. Additionally, opting for less open fixtures that provide more directed light is beneficial in task-oriented areas of your home. Thoughtful placement of fittings is also crucial. For example, avoiding overhead lighting in the bathroom can eliminate shadows on the face while using smaller wall lights or mirror-framing lights as better alternatives.