The Complicated Art Of Lighting A Space

Anyone can do it you just need to know how.

The art of lighting a space is far more important than anyone will first realise. It will be the difference between your room looking disjointed or exceptional.

Ever entered a room and realised how incredibly well they’ve diffused the light? Well, we hope not and for good reason.  When lighting, it’s impeccable you hardly notice it. “Light should not interpret architecture; it must transform it!” Edward P. Bartholomew

Like most things, when designing a room you should always carefully consider bulbs and fixtures to create inviting environments that encourage people to want to stick around. Same applies to retail spaces. One of our clients Hollister did this well. They created a space where people wanted to stick around in their stores.

One of the biggest mistakes for retail and home is overly bright lighting. Leave that to lighting hospital emergency rooms. Anyway, this is how you could make sure you get it right.

Consider the function of the room. 

We feel this is a given but people forget before you do anything at all. What will the space be used for?  Cooking? Watching television? World domination? It’s not the same environment so why would you expect the same lighting?

Close isn’t close enough.

When it comes to the style and colouring of your light fixture it is more than important that its character adds to the room and doesn’t take away from it. Just because its close or similar to something doesn’t mean it will be right.

Lighting that is slightly out, makes a room completely disjointed.

Localize your light source.

Most believe when it comes to lighting that you need to completely light a room.  What about approaching it differently? Try to incorporate multiple points of light. Create layers and enhance certain aspects of architecture. The right lampshade can make all the difference. bring your low-wattage bulb to the store to try it with different shades and test the coverage.

Definitely add a dimmer.

For multipurpose rooms, dimmers are essential. provides versatility and flexibility depending on the time of day, event, or mood, and they just happen to be a great energy saver. Consider it a worthwhile investment, as dimmers reduce energy consumption and increase bulb life. Aesthetically, it’s non-negotiable. Every overhead light should be wired for a dimmer. “If you only have one light source in the centre of the room, you’re looking at your shadow all day long,” says Adelman. “It makes for a depressing base.”

Know your bulbs. 

Compact fluorescent light bulbs are a great option. However, you need to be careful disposing of them. In terms of reducing your energy consumption, it’s best if you use lighting that lasts longer with better efficiency. Screw-in LEDs have a long life, but can be pricey. Here’s a great bit of info from Which? If you need it.

Learn more here

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