Guide to Choosing the Right Type of Lighting for a Home
The best choice for efficient lighting is simple: opt for a light-emitting diode (LED).
Whether building or renovating a dream home, the choice of lighting may not be at the top of the list. However, the right lighting choices can be low-cost to elevate the aesthetics and add considerable long-term value to a property.
Here are some tips for choosing the right type of lighting for a home:
Choose the most efficient lighting
The best choice for efficient lighting is simple: opt for a light-emitting diode (LED). Although the up-front cost is slightly higher than alternatives, LED bulbs will last significantly longer and have much lower running costs.
To further optimize the investment, always opt for Energy Star-certified bulbs, which use 75% less energy while producing 75% less heat than non-certified alternatives. The Energy Star website is a government resource for all LED assessment needs and purchases.
Different types of lighting
It is important to understand the different forms of home lighting to make each space as appealing as possible. These types of interior lighting include:
Ambient or general lighting
This option provides basic light to the space. In a small room, the only ambient lighting may be a single ceiling fixture. Other examples include chandeliers, recessed lighting, a bedroom night lamp, and projecting wall sconces.
Task lighting
Such lighting illuminates a specific part of a room for a dedicated purpose. Common examples include desk lamps, floor lamps, or under-cabinet lighting.
Accent lighting
Accent lighting accentuates particular features in the room. More investment may be needed here to maximize the effect, such as providing backlighting for a piano, family photo, or other special features in the room. A well-known form of accent lighting is the humble dimmer switch.
Quick tips for developing a lighting plan for a house
Plan room by room for easy cost monitoring.
Begin with a focal point in each room or space. Choose a centerpiece, and light it first; the rest will follow.
Think size and scale. Fixtures should be no larger in inches than the room's measurements in feet. If the room is 8 feet by 12 feet, opt for a main lighting fixture of no more than 20 inches in diameter.
Use layering and natural light. It is possible to achieve a stunning and uniquely personal effect. Play around with different types of lighting in each room, use clever accent lighting, and make the most of the natural light available.
Contact the experts
If homeowners struggle to choose the right type of home lighting, consulting with a professional firm is best. They will advise on the lights most suitable for any property.
