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Consider the room function.  How you use the space is critical to your lighting choices.  You want to be sure you will have ample task lighting for how you want the room to function.  Tasks like reading, cooking, sewing and homework will require an additional light source.  Planning ahead for these areas will save you time and money.

 

 

Maximize the natural light in a room.  Sometimes simply adding a strategically located mirror to a room, can visually open the space by enhancing light coming through a window.

 

 

Match your lighting color temperatures. With LED  light sources now being the norm, it is critical for the overall appearance and function of a space. This is key, as light defines the color of everything in your room.  Just remember color is completely defined by the light it is seen in.  Where this can get tricky is when using LED light sources.  You will need to better understand what the Kelvin temperature of the light is and be sure to keep it consistent in a room.  My two favorite color temperatures in residential lighting are 2700 and 3000.  The lower the kelvin the warmer the light.

 

 

Light Layering.   Most of our homes today simply come equipped with overhead recessed lighting.  This tends to make a room feel harsh and cold. Adding lamps to a space including kitchen and bathroom counters can elevate the functionality as well as add warmth to a room.  Add light to some of your favorite wall art.  Ideally these fixtures are hard wired, however, this can also be done quite economically using battery powered or rechargeable picture lights.  Add under cabinet lighting to your kitchen and laundry rooms.  This is considered task lighting and will make these rooms more comfortable to work in.  The addition of wall sconce lighting adds a tremendous amount of warmth to any room.  Another trick is to add uplight.  This can be done by concealing lighting behind a large plant, which will provide the added benefit of creating beautiful art shadows on the wall and ceiling.

 

Dimming Controls and Smart Switches.  When purchasing LED lighting, be sure to select those that are dimmable.  This is a small upgrade that can make a world of difference.  This is one of the most important aspects of lighting design as it gives you maximum control of the amount of light you are using at any given time.  Simply replacing a wall switch with a dimming device will make a world of difference in a space.  Having more control over the brightness in a room will go a long way in balancing the light and creating the warmth we want in a room.  One caveat is to be sure the dimmer you choose is compatible with your light source.  This should mitigate any unwanted flickering.

 

Consult with a Lighting Design Specialist.  It can be overwhelming, confusing and costly to fly solo on this task.  A Lighting Designer can guide you through the maze of choosing the best lighting solutions to turn a house into a home that you love.