Lighting Tips

There are three or four basic types of lighting that should work together to light any room. They are task lighting, general lighting, accent lighting and lighting that is sometimes called decorative lighting or “sparkle lighting”. A good lighting plan combines at least the first three types and sometimes all four types of lighting.

Kitchen:

Under cabinet lighting is essential to task lighting in the Kitchen. It gives significant lighting for working in the kitchen, and also enhances the counter top. I prefer to use halogen lights as opposed to fluorescent because they shine cleaner and brighter and are also dimmable.

Above cabinet lighting provides great accent lighting for cabinets that do not go all the way to the ceiling. For people who like to put decorations on top of the cabinets, such as pots, plates, tea kettles, or plants, the light provides a great highlight to bring out the special décor.

This lighting also makes a great night light because the indirect lighting does not disturb sensitive eyes.

Bathroom

In the bathroom, especially around the vanity mirrors, task lighting is critical. Task lighting can assist in performing specific tasks such as applying makeup, shaving, dressing a wound, or performing a manicure.

It is recommended that the vanity light fixtures installed around the vanity mirror be incandescent or halogen fixtures because this will allow you to easily control the brightness of these fixtures with a dimmer.

Recessed downlights should not be used to light your face while standing at a mirror because the light coming from these fixtures will cause too many shadows on your face. Recessed downlights can be used in other parts of the bathroom for general lighting but not for task lighting at the vanity mirror.

An area of bathroom lighting that is often overlooked is the shower, tub, or Jacuzzi. It is suggested that one or two recessed downlights with special shower trims be used to illuminate each of these areas. If the bathroom is already finished, a remodel, recessed housing can be used for this purpose. A shower trim, with a glass diffuser and a special gasket, should be used in these areas. You may want to consider selecting a shower trim with a domed glass diffuser because this shape often gives the most uniform distribution of light.

Dining Rooms:

In general, the size of a chandelier or a pendant hanging over a table should be at least 6 inches narrower than the table on each side.

Living Rooms:

Soft lighting behind flat screen TV’s not only looks great, but it’s less straining on the eyes. It is highly suggested if the TV is in a cubby above a fireplace, or an enclosed entertainment center.

Bedrooms:

Ceiling fans are popular not just for summertime cooling, but also for circulation during the winter time. Fan remotes are suggested for control of fan speed while also providing a dimmer control for the lights.

Always remember that light is the first element of design; without it there is no color, form, or texture.