A Practical Guide to Residential Lighting

Natural Lighting

• Natural sunlight should always be considered when planning your residential lighting. Sunlight is more evenly distributed than artificial lights, which means less shadows to deal with. Glare can become a significant problem with sunlight that needs to be addressed when using the sun to illuminate rooms in which you are watching TV or working at a computer.

Quality of Light

• The quality of the light provided by artificial means can vary significantly according to the type of bulb. Choose traditional tungsten bulbs when you are aiming for a feeling of warmth and comfort. Halogen bulbs are the best choice for providing the most authentic balance of color. The light that is produced by fluorescent bulbs tends to be much harsher than standard incandescent bulbs.

Purpose

• The purpose of the light is an effective way to dictate choices. Directional lighting that can be adjusted makes reading more comfortable. Adjustable directional wall lights are not only decorative but can be positioned to light a focal point or bounced off the wall to diffuse the intensity. Directional pendant fixtures are the most convenient choice for lighting a dining table, but the size, shading and height can all affect the enjoyment of a meal beneath it.

Halls and Stairways

• Lighting halls and stairways can certainly be aesthetically pleasing, but their function is more important. The primary function of lighting in these areas is to provide clarity when they are used when outside light is not adequate. Stair lights should clearly show the distinction between tread and riser. Hallway lighting should be bright enough to guide passage during the middle of the night, but not so bright that light seeping beneath bedroom doors keeps you awake.

Mood and Atmosphere

• Creating an atmosphere inside a room should also be an element you consider. Different types of fixtures, like recessed ceiling spotlights as well as your choices in lampshades, can all be used to manipulate lighting that creates a certain kind of mood. Another way to directly control lighting to create different emotional environments is by adding a dimmer switch.

Get Funky

• Set aside a room or a certain feature of the house to introduce lighting that provides an offbeat, quirky or whimsical aspect to your home. Shop around lighting stores as well as flea markets and antique shops to find a lamp with an unusual shape. You can also use your own imagination to come up with creative lighting alternatives, such as suspending retro style flashlights from a railing to create a chandelier over your bed's headboard.