How to Choose Lighting Choices

By: Jessica Ackerman

Entering a room, the eye is drawn on accents like a painting hung on a wall, the carpeting, or a large vase. The different design elements add an immediate ambience to the space. That is how we classify that an area has a country modern or classic decor scheme. Other than the furnishings and design pieces, another necessary element which helps to set the mood is lighting choices. With proper lighting, we can transform any space into an inviting and relaxed place using soft lights, or lend it an architectural ambience with a crisp and contemporary illumination system.

Given the vital job lighting plays in creating atmosphere and underscoring theme and style, it is vital to understand how to choose lighting that is ideal for a space or a specific need. The following suggestions will assist you with this job.

The existing needs for illumination should be taken into account. Of course, the most important purpose of installing illumination features in a room is to illuminate it; they are not just installed for aesthetic needs. For that reason the most crucial issue to be considered is the existing illumination requirements of the space. For example, a dining or living area might have a chandelier because these areas require homier ambient illumination. Recessed lighting can be useful for adding functionality in the kitchen when hung over countertops or beneath cabinets. The wattage that is required is particular to various rooms; for instance, the nursery will need a warm illumination during the nighttime while you may prefer your personal room to be very dark.

Take consideration of the dimensions of the room. In order to determine the specific kind of lighting that will effectively illuminate the entire room, you may use this widely accepted formula as a guide:

Width of the room x length of the room x 1.5 = needed wattage.

Two sixty watt light bulbs are typically needed for a smaller room of around 9x9 feet. In rooms that require brighter lighting, such as a bathroom, kitchen, or home office, replace 1.5 with 2.5. Because there are so many innovative products on the market, this formula is a vital tool; each offers differing wattage options. A easy to understand manual like this will allow you to choose the optimal combination of illumination to meet your needs.

Consider the existing design of the room. Apart from the ability to light the space, the next consideration that should be made is that of accentuating the existing style and decor of the space. Experiment various finishes, textures and designs to discover the right one for your particular theme. A contemporary design is more aptly suited for a contemporary lighting system while a country design would be better fitted with features like wrought iron chandeliers and sconces.

Consider cost-effectiveness and convenience. Last of all when selecting lighting, always look for eco-friendly choices that are more economical and required less energy. Due to the fact that CFL light bulbs are more environmentally-conscious, more homeowners have begun to use these bulbs instead of incandescent varieties. Installing these in your home will not only decrease global energy requirements, they will also help you save money on your personal electricity bill.