Good Lighting: Rules, Dos, And Don'ts

Lighting's importance in improving our homes, workplaces, and existence is often underappreciated. Poor lighting may make us tired and uninspired, while good lighting can turn a dull area into a lively retreat. 

Lighting's significance extends well beyond aesthetics and mood to include stimulating effects on our physical well-being. Exposure to natural light has been demonstrated to impact sleep, happiness, and intelligence positively. Conversely, our circadian cycles may be thrown off by exposure to artificial illumination that is excessively bright or harsh, leading to fatigue, headaches, and even insomnia. 

Thus, it is crucial to consider the kind of lighting we use in various contexts and ensure it is suitable for the work at hand. Lighting choices range from dimmable overhead chandeliers to flexible desk lamps, allowing us to set the mood for any occasion. By prioritising lighting design and installing high-quality fixtures, we can enhance the performance and atmosphere of our environments, which in turn benefits our well-being. 

Let's go into the dos and don'ts of lighting so you may design aesthetically pleasing, energising environments.

All About Lighting

It's necessary to have a firm knowledge of the basic ideas behind excellent lighting before delving into the rules themselves. There are three primary types of lighting: ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting. Task lighting is crafted to illuminate a specific task, such as reading or cooking, whereas ambient lighting illuminates the whole space and establishes the atmosphere. However, accent lighting draws attention to particular items or architectural details.

To properly illuminate a room, familiarity with these classifications is required. The light's colour temperature should also be considered in addition to the factors above. Light with a warm yellow or orange hue is welcoming and comforting, whereas cold blue or white is invigorating and stimulating. Proper lighting relies not only on the number of lights used but also on where they are placed. 

Lighting a space with a mix of ceiling, table, and floor lamps may provide dimension and character. Lastly, dimmer switches let you control the amount of light in a room to fit your current mood or the task at hand. Achieve a balance between functionality and aesthetics with your lighting design by remembering these principles. 

Guidelines for Effective Lighting

Maintaining a Steady Equilibrium:

Achieve layering and balance by strategically placing ambient, task, and accent lighting.

Take Into Account The Goal: 

The amount of light in a room should vary depending on its use. Task lighting is crafted to illuminate a specific area, whereas ambient lighting is designed to establish a mood.

Including Sunlight: 

Use light-filtering materials and properly placed windows to make the most of natural light and minimise the need for artificial lighting.

Adjustable Light Controls: 

Put in dimmer switches so that the brightness of the lights may be adjusted. You may change your mood depending on the time of day or the tasks.

The Temperature Of Colour: 

Carefully choose the ideal colour temperature for each room. Light bulbs with a higher Kelvin temperature (about 4000–5000) are more suited for kitchens and other workspaces, whereas warmer bulbs (around 2700–3000) are better suited for relaxing environments like living rooms.

Lighting Dos

Make Use Of Many Light Sources: 

Rather than a single overhead bulb, floor lamps, table lamps, sconces, and pendant lights provide a well-lit and aesthetically pleasing space.

Create Layered Lighting: 

Use a variety of light sources to make a space seem more three-dimensional. Create a tiered look that provides appeal and usefulness using ambient, task, and accent lighting.

Draw Attention To Critical Details: 

Accent lighting highlights certain aspects of a room, such as artwork, architectural details, or ornamental artefacts. It enhances the dramatic effect and adds aesthetic appeal.

The Lighting Dont

Try To Avoid Bright Lights: 

The light that is too strong or too straight on may irritate the eyes. Indirect lighting is the way to go if you're going for a calm and cosy vibe.

Make Sure Colour Rendering: 

A lack of vibrant colours may make a room appear cold and unwelcoming. If you want colours to look their best, it's best to choose bulbs with a high Color Rendering Index (CRI).

No More Uneven Illumination:

Sticking to one colour temperature across a room rather than alternating between many is best. Consistency is the key to a polished appearance.

To design aesthetically beautiful and valuable rooms, you must know the rules, dos, and don'ts of excellent lighting. Any space may be made into a relaxing retreat by properly illuminating it with ambient, task, and accent lighting that considers the area's intended use and pays close attention to colour temperature and light layering. Keep in mind that well-lit areas look better and help us feel better and get more done. That being the case, let there be light and shine brightly with Ankur Lighting!