We adore lighting - it is a hugely important component of any interior.  The right lighting can really set a scene and completely change the feel of a room, highlighting different features and obscuring others.  In addition, it is important to place the correct light in the right places for the tasks in that room.  Once this is achieved you can layer in ambient and accent lighting with gorgeous fixtures and fittings that can elevate your entire scheme.

Let's explore all you need to know about creating a well-lit space!

The five main types of interior lighting are: general, ambient, mood, task and accent.

A general understanding of each individual lighting type can assist you in planning a foolproof lighting scheme for your interior! (Some lights will fall under multiple categories too, but we'll get to that in a minute!)

GENERAL

Enter the foundation of any good lighting scheme!  General lighting provides a uniform glow across a room and illuminates a space functionally, rather than purely for aesthetic reasons.

Downlights or a central pendant light is perhaps the most commonly used source of general lighting and can be an important part of the design of the room.  It's important to not rely on general lighting alone - incorporating layers in your lighting scheme will reduce any unflattering shadows and creating a more welcoming atmosphere.

AMBIENT

The next layer to the lighting layer cake is ambient lighting which is a great partner to general lighting!

Both types share important characteristics—they’re primarily functional and used to light a complete area.  Ambient lighting is indirect, giving off a soft light that sets the mood and creates a little drama. Think of spotlights or wall sconces which paint the wall with light.

TASK

As its name would suggest task lighting is any light source used for a particular task - ie, reading or cooking.  By nature, these lights need to have a stronger wattage than most other lighting to illuminate the working area.  To avoid any eye strain caused by the sharp contrast between light and dark areas, always combine with an ambient light source.

A stylish table lamp makes a great desk companion whilst flexible reading lights fixed near a headboard are great for bedtime reading. The kitchen is another area into which task lighting must be incorporated to make food preparation easier and safer!

Recessed down lights over worktops or a long and low pendant light over the kitchen island are just a few options to ensure you're well-lit!

MOOD

Make your room inviting by introducing mood lighting.  The perfect mood lighting should be a harmonious blend of style and function - think, stylish brass floor lamps or a statement table lamp to complete your look.  Handy tip?  Place the source of lighting (the lamp shade) just above eye level to illuminate the whole room - it will be the most flattering angle because it doesn’t cast a down shadow.

ACCENT

Accent lighting is the cherry on top to highlight any features of a room.  Accent light can highlight artwork, sculptures and objects in cabinets or on pedestals.  Accent lighting is used to enhance the pieces and prevent them from being lost in an under-illuminated space.

DO'S OF LIGHTING

• DO Think of what your room will be used for and what furniture will be included in it—certain areas will require specific lighting.
• DO Incorporate a dimmer system in your lighting design—it allows your lighting to be responsive!
• DO Consider the relationship between rooms when planning a lighting scheme—sharp changes from bright to dark can cause disorientation and eye fatigue.
• DO Place wall lights on shorter walls—this will balance out your room and take attention away from long walls.
• DO Pay attention to the lining of a shade—the thickness and colour of the lining will affect the light emitted.
• DO Think carefully about the colour temperature of your lighting - a cool blue light can feel very sterile whereas very warm tones can cast a yellow shade across your space.  It is extremely important to get this right!

DONT'S OF LIGHTING

• DON’T Stick to one central light source because it causes unflattering shadows—a layered scheme is essential.
• DON’T Scrimp on outlets—there’s nothing worse than having to use an unsightly extension cord.
• DON’T Hang pendant lights too low especially if you have taller members in your family!
• DON"T Select fixtures based on aesthetics only.  Consider how much light you need and where it will fall from the fitting.

OUR NEW SOURCEBOOK IS HERE

We've made finding your perfect match easy.  Browse through 100's of our favourite lighting solutions - from table lamps, floor lamps, wall sconces, pendants and chandeliers that are ready to order in our lighting sourcebook!  Can't see what you're after?  Simply reach out to our team and we will find a solution for you!