The Importance of Lighting

My poor husband.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve dragged him from restaurant to restaurant in cities all over the globe, searching for a space to eat with JUST the right lighting. I’m not kidding.

Ever notice how looking at a food under fluorescent lights makes everything a glow with greenish blue tint? If it’s too bright, I’ve lost my appetite. On the other hand, if it’s too dark, I can’t see what I’m eating and everything has a dark dingy hue: another appetite killer. In actual candlelight, I’d rather take a nap than eat. What I’m getting at here is how imperative good lighting is in a general ( and in restaurants) but specifically, how crucial it is to consider in your own interior design. It has a significant impact on the overall look and feel of a space and it’s contents. Here are several reasons why lighting is important in interior design:

Aesthetic Enhancement:

Highlighting Design Elements: Proper lighting can accentuate and highlight key features of the interior design, such as artwork, furniture, architectural details, or focal points. It draws attention to the elements you want to showcase.

Mood and Atmosphere: Different lighting styles, colors, and intensities can create various moods within a space. For example, warm and dim lighting might create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, while bright and cool lighting can make a space feel more energetic and open.

Functionality:

Task Lighting: Adequate lighting is essential for performing specific tasks, such as reading, cooking, or working. Task lighting ensures that you can carry out activities comfortably and efficiently.

Ambient Lighting: This provides overall illumination to make a space navigable and comfortable. It helps create a welcoming and functional environment.

Spatial Perception:

Visual Interest: Well-planned lighting can add visual interest and depth to a room. It can create shadows, textures, and contrasts, making the space more dynamic and visually appealing.

Room Size Perception: Lighting can influence how spacious or cozy a room appears. Strategic placement and intensity of light can make a room feel larger or more intimate.

Color Representation:

Color Rendering: The type and quality of lighting can affect how colors appear in a space. Natural light and certain artificial lights can bring out the true colors of furnishings and decor, contributing to a more accurate and vibrant color palette. The same goes for poor artificial lighting: it can absolutely distort and dilute color. (gray spinach anyone?)

Energy Efficiency:

Energy-Saving Solutions: With the focus on sustainability, energy-efficient lighting options, such as LED bulbs, have become popular. These options not only reduce energy consumption but also contribute to a more eco-friendly and cost-effective design. LED lighting can be tricky in finding the right ambient temperature. I always recommend using 2700-3000 Kelvin warm light LED bulbs, and if you can go adjustable, even better!

Architectural Emphasis:

Architectural Features: Lighting can be used to emphasize and showcase architectural features, such as columns, arches, or unique textures on walls. It adds depth and character to the design.

Adaptability:

Flexible Design: Adjustable lighting fixtures and controls allow for adaptability. Depending on the time of day or the desired mood, the lighting can be adjusted to suit different needs and occasions.