Decorating from A-Z (L is for lighting)

Can light really transform a space?

Yes it can.  It magically can!  If it’s done correctly that is.

Well lit rooms get used, and poorly lit ones get abandoned…Let’s use our space to the fullest!

Here are a few examples of  how the 3 types of lighting (Ambient, Task and Accent lighting) can really elevate your space.

First is Ambient lighting which is our general overhead lighting.

Secondly is your Task lighting (focused and functional lighting (like reading lamps near a chair or desk or pendant lamps that hang over kitchen counters)

Finally, your decorative or accent lighting  is used to draw attention to a particular area often adding depth and drama to a room.

Take a look at the following examples of lighting techniques and how they are used.

I fell in love with this light fixture while dining at Grand Lux Cafe in Chicago.  The large scale of this ambient lighting feature is what caught my eye and the stunning ceiling that it hung from.

 

 

 

 

Here we see several layers used.   I love a well lit kitchen when I’m preparing food, so the pendant lighting here helps me to achieve my prep work without chopping off my fingers.  I will oftentimes also turn the overhead or recessed lights on when I need light dispersed more fully and my natural daylight wanes.  The light over the kitchen table provides great ambient light as well as mood lighting when the dimmers are used.

 

Here’s an example of 2 reasonably priced lamps I found at ikea for a client’s Home office that also functions as a “chill space”. These fall into the Task lighting category and are used as directional lighting.

 

 

 

 

My modest home office has a chandelier which provides general overhead lighting.   it’s also a  decorative feature that casts many cool shadows in the space.  I found that I also needed 2 other lamps to provide function for close up work to help me choose paint colors and  fabric samples for my clients.   One is a the pharmacy lamp, on the desk and the other (not in view) is a floor lamp with an arm that swings just where I need it.

 

Isn’t this awesome?  The combination of downlights, recessed lighting and colorful mood lighting is a great showcase of lighting for drama and impact.

 

 

 

These downlights really help to showcase the florals in the niches…lovely!

 

 

 

 

 

If you have great art to showcase, try this direct lighting technique.  This particular lamp is available at lampsplus.com

 

 

Good sources for lighting are everywhere from your local hardware stores like Home depot, and Lowes to places like Home Goods, Ikea, and specialty lighting stores.  If you’re in the market for something especially unique, you may consider buying from a design center through a local Interior Designer or Decorator.  Your Design Partner has access to the  Chicago Mart and other trade centers and  can arrange a shopping trip for your needs.Take a look at some of the fabulous lighting styles from a recent trip to the Atlanta Mart.

Moroccan inspired hanging lights…In clusters of 3-5, how fabulous!

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Pendant lights in this space are shown as decorative accents.   The varying lengths enhance the mood and can really punch up a tired nook or corner.

 

 

 

 

 

These decorative lamps are from a vendor that I like to work with for their Earth friendly products and good pricing.  Strategically placed, these can provide amazing mood lighting.

 

 

 

 

The hanging chandelier (Old World Rustic) paired with the lamps on the table (Crystal) is a great representation of mixed styles done well.

 

 

 

 

Looking for a good resource?  Check this out at your neighborhood library first and if you love it, go ahead an add it to your library.

 

 

 

 

 

When you’re planning your lighting needs remember to consider the  function the light(s) will  be used for?  Will they provide task lighting, mood lighting, decorative lighting or all three?

what are your favorite lighting techniques?  Please share.

 

Inspiring Creativity,

Ricci Jackson

Yourdesignpartner.com