Buying Guides
Lighting
Let us help you explore a selection of lighting options designed to transform your space. Dive into our expert knowledge and explore the vast array of choices. Get the best tips to make an informed decision and find the perfect lighting for you.
It is important to consider the different types of light when creating a successful interior design.
Sunlight is the most obvious natural light source, it is mentally stimulating and can have a significant effect on our wellbeing. The light will differ depending on where you live, the orientation of the room, the time of day and the season. All of these factors will effect the amount of natural light that a room has and its colour warmth and intensity.
Controlling natural light can be difficult, the use of sheer window coverings and mirrors should be considered in a room with little natural light, whilst rooms flooded with natural light can benefit from clever window treatments to reduce sunlight and prevent glare.
Artificial light can be added in layers to enhance a space, highlight features and create zones. The five main types of interior lighting, or layers are, general, ambient, mood, task and accent lighting.
The colour characteristics of light are often described in terms of what is called “colour temperature” – usually either warm (yellowish) or cool (bluish), with the temperature measured in degrees of Kelvin (K). The higher the number, the cooler the light. Low colour temperature is best for recreational activities and socialising. High colour temperature and intensity are best for concentration.
Don’t forget walk ways, low level lighting used in hallways, on stairs and in outdoor areas creates foot flow paths and increases safety.
General Lighting
General lighting is the basic element of a lighting scheme, replacing natural light and providing a functional illumination of entire room. This is most commonly done from a central pendant light or ceiling mounted fitting that casts a general overall wash of light.
Ambient lighting is similar to general lighting but is indirect and softer, downlighting is not often used for ambient lighting as it can create unflattering shadows. Fittings that throw light onto a ceiling or wash a wall with light are a good choice for creating a desirable ambiance. Dimmable systems that allow control of the light level required are also a good option.
Don’t stick to a single central light source, a layered scheme is essential.
Accent Lighting
Accent lightings function is to highlight features in a room, like artwork, sculptures and objects in cabinets or on shelving.
Architectural features can be highlighted with both ambient and accent lighting, ambient is usually more subtle and can be used to define perimeters rather than specific objects. Perimeter lighting can accentuate the dimensions of a space, corniche or strip lighting is a clever trick used by architects and designers to do this.
Investing in the right lighting can significantly enhance your living or working enviroment.
Mood Lighting
Mood lighting can be incredibly important in creating an inviting atmosphere with a warm and inviting glow. Little pockets of light from a table lamp pooling over a seating area are inviting whilst a low level pendant over a dining table can create drama or intimacy. Flos glo-balls show this method perfectly and come in a range of styles from floor to ceiling fittings and more.
We can help you find the perfect lighting solutions to suit your needs. Use our expert tips and recommendations to create a beautifully illuminated space that combines functionality and aesthetics.
Task Lighting
Task lighting generally has a stronger wattage and is used to illuminate reading and working areas. Directional and flexible desk, floor and wall lamps are ideal for reading and in a home office, whilst spotlights and recessed downlight over worktops or a low pendant over an island unit can be good options for kitchen task lighting. These Louis Poulsen PH 6 1/2 6 pendants show how the light is sent downwards to the work area while giving a subtle light to the side whilst not showing the actual bulb.
