Lighting is one of the most important elements to get right in any room. Each space has its various functions and requirements which is why domestic lighting is a vital detail in design. Lighting is also the quickest way to change the atmosphere and mood or create particular effects. Yet when people think of lighting, they think of the fittings themselves rather than the flexible medium which can be manipulated as needed.
While the aesthetic of a light is very important, you should also consider the quality of the light for the space in which you are using it. This is why we ensure that our lights are both decorative and functional. So how do you plan an efficient lighting scheme? Before you start, you should understand the various functions of each type of fitting.
Our Coolicon Copper Pendant Lights are perfect as task lighting over a kitchen counter, as demonstrated here in this kitchen by OnCraft Interiors – View product in shop
Ceiling Lights:
Ceiling lights provide good overall illumination. However, the amount of light they throw out depends on the shade and bulb used. Our Coolicon pendants provide a wide pool of light, while the cutouts allow light to escape at the top of the shade, giving a more general glow. Our pendant lights are also great when used for task lighting; placed above a kitchen island they offer focused light that is perfect for food preparation areas.
Copper MK1 Factory Wall Lights are great reading lamps placed above the beds at Andover House Hotel – View product in our store
Wall Lights:
Wall lights are best if they are directional, used to bounce light off the floor or ceiling for an ambient glow. They are also great when used to light a picture or particular area of a room. Our articulating wall lights work well as effective task lights. When placed above a chair or bed as a reading lamp, the adjustable brackets allow you to direct the light where needed without casting any shadows.
Downlights:
Downlights are usually recessed or ceiling mounted to cast light below. Angled wall lights can be used as downlights where needed. The quality of light is dependent on the bulb used; floodlights will give a broad light with minimum glare, while an ordinary bulb will provide a soft, ambient glow. Downlights are often concealed in smaller rooms to maximise space and draw attention to the effect rather than the fixture. However, pendants can be used as downlighters in larger rooms with high ceilings and our angled MK1 wall lights are ideal for wall-washing, creating a dramatic effect by splashing light all over the surface.
Wall lights cast light over the surface, while also working as accent lights above seating, in this living room by Mac Building Solutions
Uplights:
Of all lights in the room, an uplight will likely make the biggest difference. Perfect for living rooms and dining rooms, these lamps can be used as accent lighting to create an atmosphere that is not possible to achieve with ceiling lights. Floor lamps are ideal for uplighting, however, if you do not have the space, you can position wall lights to angle upwards and bounce off the ceiling, to diffuse the light for a similar effect.
Upward angled wall lights are a great space saver in smaller rooms with little space for floor lamps – interior by Stylo Renovations
Spotlights:
Spotlights and directional lights are used as accent lighting, to highlight specific features and provide strong light where needed. They can be mounted on a ceiling, wall or track and then directed towards the necessary area. Our small factory shades are perfect when used as accent lights with either our pendants or wall lights, casting a focused beam of light and drawing attention to key elements in the room.
Angled wall lights are perfect for accent lighting, drawing attention to key features within the room, such as this picture in an interior by Foreign Bear Studio
A quality lighting system needs planning; you should incorporate the lighting into the initial plans for a room to avoid any issues with wiring or outlet placements after decorating. Decide which style of fixture you require for each area and consider the use of dimmers to control the scheme; if you are using uplights or spotlights, you should be sure that you can control the intensity to prevent harsh lighting from ruining the effect of your carefully planned layout.
