Lighting techniques to transform your space
Lighting is as important as any other aspect of interior design. Not only does it transform a room, it changes the mood and the perceived size of it too. But using the right lighting in the correct places is vital, so you can make a space feel comfortable while also atmospheric and dramatic.
There are different lighting techniques you can use. It’s important to remember that it works in conjunction with other aspects of interior design – such as furniture, fabrics, colour choices and the size and layout of your room. When all these aspects gel together, you’re left with a room that oozes harmony and fluidity of design.
The illusion of space in a room is defined by light. Both natural daylight and artificial light are important. A designer will monitor where natural light enters a room – which will define where you position everything. This then supports where you should place artificial lighting to create layers of light.
Lighting techniques
Using different techniques will enhance the mood and feel of a room. There are many different types of options – such as feature lights, lamps and pendants, wall and floor lights as well as hidden lights and integrated architectural lighting.
Ambient lighting – or general lighting – provides overall illumination to a room. Radiating a comfortable level of brightness, it lets you see and walk around safely without any glare. You can add it through track lights, chandeliers and ceiling or wall mounted fixtures. It’s always important to have a central source of ambient lighting in every room.
Architectural lighting is a combination of hidden lights which you can incorporate into joinery or architecture. You can create interesting spaces using this type of technique. It provides general illumination, but it can also emphasise materials in your room. You can add it into joinery – such as cupboards or shelves. By using LED lights, uplights and downlights, it adds depth to your space, sections of interest and layers of light.
You can also use architectural lighting a form of leading your eyes along a corridor, up the stairs or through a space into another room. Uplights on the window sill can frame your view outside. This type of lighting is also great to use outdoors – for example to highlight a tree or wall.
Combining architectural lighting with decorative lighting will give you the best results. Decorative lights can be achieved through a feature lamp, wall lights or a dramatic pendant.
Achieving balance
The key to good light in a room is to use a variety of ambient, architectural and decorative techniques. This allows them to work together in your space. By using a mix of these, it will provide a balance of light throughout your room. Creating layers of light is important, and for that dramatic look, hidden lights are the answer. A great example is if you have a table and upholstered bench against a wall. By adding an LED strip at the back of the bench which will uplight the wall, you can create an impression of more space. It also creates a totally different atmosphere in that room.
Our lighting range provides a variety of options for ambient, architectural and decorative light. Browse through our brochure and get in touch with us if you need advice on the best types of lighting to suit your spaces. Email orders@manorinteriors.co.uk or call 01618797137.
