Lighting Tips for Interior Designers

Lighting is an essential component of interior design. It sets the mood, highlights features of the space, and elevates the aesthetics of the overall design. A well-designed lighting scheme can transform an interior space from drab to fab and make it appear more inviting and cozy.

Shelby Design Center is a lighting and flooring store located in Shelby Township. For more than 25 years, we've been helping interior designers with their lighting and flooring needs. In this post, we will cover some lighting tips for interior designers to consider when creating a lighting plan for any interior space. Schedule a free consultation with us today!

Start with Layers

The key to creating a successful lighting plan is to understand the concept of layering. Interior designers should aim to create multiple layers of light, such as a combination of ambient, accent, and task lighting. Each of these lighting types serves a specific purpose in creating different moods and serving specific needs. Wall sconces, lamps, and recessed lighting are great options for layered lighting.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting is the first layer of light to consider as it provides a foundation for the space. It's the general illumination that provides an even distribution of light throughout the space, allowing people to move around and see clearly. Examples of ambient lighting include chandeliers, pendant lights, and recessed lights. Interior designers can choose from a variety of ambient light sources when designing a space, but should ensure that the light levels are even and the light fixtures are spaced evenly throughout the space.

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting is the second layer of light to consider in your design plan. This type of lighting is used to highlight specific features of the space, such as artwork, architectural details, or decorative objects. Accent lighting creates drama, evokes emotions and brings a sense of beauty to the space. Examples of accent lighting include track lighting, picture lights, and wall sconces.

Task Lighting

The third layer of lighting is task lighting, which is used to illuminate areas where specific tasks are performed, such as reading, cooking, or using a computer. Task lighting ensures that the work areas are well-lit and that the task at hand can be completed comfortably and safely. Examples of task lighting include desk lamps, under-cabinet lighting, and reading lamps.

Consider Color Temperature

Color temperature is an important consideration when determining the type of lighting for your design plan. Each light source has a color temperature, which is measured in Kelvin. At higher color temperatures (5000K), the light appears cooler and bluish, while at lower temperatures (around 2700K), the light appears warmer and yellowish. Interior designers in Shelby Township should consider the color temperature of each light source in relation to the overall design concept and mood of the space. A warmer, yellowish light may work well in a cozy bedroom, while a cooler, bluish light may suit a sterile healthcare environment.

Create Highlights and Shadows

Playing with light creates shadows and highlights within a space. Shadows can add depth, dimension, and drama to a space, whereas highlights accentuate features and add definition. Interior designers should create lighting effects that highlight interesting architectural details, unique artwork, or unusual furnishings. By carefully controlling the shadows and highlights throughout the space, an interior designer can create a cohesive, captivating atmosphere. Directional lighting is great for highlighting a home or office's best features.

Choose the Right Light Fixtures

The lighting fixtures selected for a space should be in keeping with the overall design style. A modern, minimalist space may benefit from simple, streamlined fixtures, whereas a traditional or eclectic space may call for more ornate fixtures. Interior designers should also consider the size and scale of the fixtures in relation to the room size. Oversized fixtures in a small room can make it feel crowded, while under-scaled fixtures can appear insignificant and non-functional. It's crucial to begin with your chosen design style before you choose lighting.

Consider the Natural Light

Any interior design plan must take into consideration the natural light sources within the space. Natural lighting can add warmth and sparkle to a space and can reduce the need for artificial lighting. Interior designers in Shelby Township should consider the placement of windows and how the natural light flows through the space during different times of the day. Window treatments should be chosen that allow the natural light in while minimizing any unwanted glare or heat gain. Our local lighting store offers a plethora of window treatments you'll love. Ask a lighting specialist today.

STOP BY SHELBY DESIGN CENTER TODAY

Lighting is a crucial aspect of interior design, and by following these tips, interior designers in Shelby Township can create the desired mood, highlight the space's unique features, and create a captivating and attractive living environment. When thinking about lighting your clients' spaces, consider partnering with Shelby Design Center. We form great business relationships with area interior designers to help them have the absolute best lighting for their customers. Let our lighting specialists partner with you.

Don't forget, we are also a flooring store, and we offer window treatments. You can partner with us for your customers' lighting, flooring, and window shade needs. Our vast knowledge of each and how their interplay can truly help make your customers' homes or office spaces shine. Get started today!

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