Great residential lighting design is a balance of light quality and the way it interacts with surfaces. Since light is invisible, the key is understanding its composition and how it interacts with your home’s interior. It is often mistakenly believed that the hardware and design of a lighting fixture are more important than the actual light. For example, although chandeliers can look chic, they should always be chosen based on their light composition, not on their style. Also, consider the functionality of the space before you choose a fixture.
Light color
When it comes to lighting, there are a few things to consider before settling on a color. Firstly, light color is measured in Kelvin (K), with lower numbers reflecting a warmer color. A higher number means the opposite. Warm white light is inviting, while cooler white lights are chilly. The Kelvin scale is also helpful for determining which light temperature will best complement a specific room’s furnishings.
CRI
If you’re looking for the perfect lighting for your home, you’ve probably heard about CRI. The color rendering index (CRI) measures how well certain lights reproduce colors. While this measurement is important in the lighting industry, it also has some limitations.
Size of fixture
When choosing a light fixture, consider how it will be used. A poorly-sized light fixture can be distracting or overwhelming. Aim for a balance between size and aesthetics. In an open room, start with its length and height, and then measure the height and width of the room using feet and inches. For ambient lighting, an 18-inch-wide fixture is ideal. A larger fixture, such as a chandelier, can be mounted above the desk or on a shelf.
Goal-setting
Before selecting a residential lighting design, setting goals and understanding what you need is crucial. Lighting has an enormous impact on the way people perceive space. The more you plan, the better you will be able to design your home. If you want to make the most of your lighting, here are some tips to help you achieve your goals. Listed below are some ways to get started:
Budget
Residential lighting design can be expensive, so consider your budget carefully. The cost of light fixtures can vary widely, particularly if you want to look beyond mass-produced items. To stay within your budget, creating a mood board of your desired look is important, then identifying the appropriate lighting styles. Most lights come in to save and splurge versions, so compare unit pricing and find the most affordable alternative.
