Working on residential projects is a different experience than commercial ones. Listed below are some of the best tips for residential lighting design. The best way to start: First, determine what you need from your lights. Brighter lights make rooms appear larger and brighter, while accent lighting adds depth and variety to a room.
Uplighting makes a room appear larger:
Uplighting a room can be done in a few ways. In the corner, casting light on decorative items can enhance the effect. On dark shelves, strip lights can illuminate them. Uplighting also creates a vertical path of vision, taking the attention away from the width of the room and creating an illusion of height. Hence, the space appears bigger than it actually is. This technique is especially useful for small rooms, as it helps save space and forces the eye to look up.
Uplighting is the best way to draw the eyes upwards. You can achieve this by using several light fixtures. For example, certain table lamps with silver crown bulbs or certain lamp shades can direct the light upwards. Select wall lights can also direct the light upwards. You can also opt for floor lighting instead of wall lighting. If you don’t have much space on the walls, you can place wall lights on the ceiling.
Accent lighting adds depth and variety to space:
The lighting enhances the overall look and feel of the residential space by enhancing particular features, such as artwork or decorative elements. Depending on the type of lighting, the lighting can be strategically placed to create a dramatic or relaxing mood. In addition to creating a dramatic atmosphere, lighting can also help highlight architectural features and make a room more inviting to guests. It’s also possible to hide the light source using modern LED lighting.
The key to accent lighting is to enhance features in the room and create the illusion of depth. Use accent lighting that complements interesting areas of the room, and aim for three times as bright as the surrounding light. Accent lighting is best used in areas that have an interesting design or a unique focal point. This way, you can make your space appear more collected and balanced. For instance, layering accent lighting can be helpful for adding interest to an area by highlighting metal or artwork.
Lighting designers work within a budget:
A successful residential lighting design project begins with a thorough understanding of the client’s budget. Lighting designers are adept at working within a budget and must be aware of any problems that may arise. These professionals are adept at resolving problems, as well as collecting receipts for costs. Lighting designers also must be adept at using computer software such as AutoCAD or Adobe Creative Suites to create and implement a design.