Defining a well-considered lighting scheme for interior design projects
We believe a well-balanced lighting scheme is one of the most important aspects of an interior design project. While everyone defines lighting differently, we divide it into three different categories: architectural, decorative and integrated lighting. A successful lighting scheme uses all of these categories, layering them throughout a room effectively from floor to ceiling. This effect usually adds depth and character to a room regardless of the time of the day with the help of a considered lighting control system.
We use the term ‘architectural’ for any functional lighting within a room. This can be spotlights, downlights, emergency lights and any other fittings that are needed to bring a space to a certain LUX level (a standardised unit of measurement of light level intensity). Without this type of lighting, any space would not be appropriately lit, thus not functioning for the intended purpose. On the other hand, a common mistake we notice in residential projects is the heavy use of functional lighting without a consideration for decorative or integrated features. This tends to create sharp shadows or make the spaces and furniture look flat in terms of colour and finishes.
When we talk about decorative lighting, we refer to any type of fitting - table lamps, floor lamps, pendants, or wall lights - that is not necessarily used for lighting a space to a specific intensity. Of course, these lights offer ambient lighting, but would not be efficient on their own for lighting an office space for example. From an interior design perspective, the decorative fittings are probably the most impressive, as they add character, personality and colour to any room. We like working with statement lights, such as oversized ceiling chandeliers, bespoke table lamps and modern wall fittings to create one-of-a-kind interiors.
One of the most under-utilised ways to light a space is through indirect lighting. This means that the source of the light is hidden inside furniture, cabinetry and walls. This type of lighting is often found in bookshelves or wardrobes, offering a beautiful glow to any space. We use indirect light sources for their ability to bring definition and highlights to an area that otherwise would lack in depth or look two-dimensional. Another benefit of indirect lighting is its versatility, sitting in harmony on a vertical and horizontal perspective alongside decorative and architectural lighting and enhancing the existing interior design features from floor to ceiling level.
One of the most under-utilised ways to light a space is through indirect lighting. This means that the source of the light is hidden inside furniture, cabinetry and walls. This type of lighting is often found in bookshelves or wardrobes, offering a beautiful glow to any space. We use indirect light sources for their ability to bring definition and highlights to an area that otherwise would lack in depth or look two-dimensional. Another benefit of indirect lighting is its versatility, sitting in harmony on a vertical and horizontal perspective alongside decorative and architectural lighting and enhancing the existing interior design features from floor to ceiling level.
Lighting can be controlled in many ways depending on the scale of the project. You can use manual dimmer switches to adjust the light intensity to your specific needs, or an automated system that adjusts the light intensity based on daylight and weather conditions. For large scale projects, we usually work with expert lighting designers to ensure all the interior design elements are beautifully lit. We tailor our approach to each client’s needs to create a lighting scheme that works for them. Some details such as correct light layering, colour temperature and colour rendering can be considered and improved on regardless of the project budget, with the correct tools and expertise.
If you are interested to know more about lighting and how it can transform your space, we will delve deeper into this subject in future blog posts. In the meantime, if you want to discuss how we can help with your interior design projects, get in touch!