When we begin the material selection process with our clients, it’s not uncommon for the main emphasis and time to be placed on things like cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and paint colors. Logically, these are the items that are most prominent, most expensive, and most likely to be in place for many years to come, so they deserve their fair share of dedicated thought. Unfortunately, this means that lighting often falls lower on the list of priorities. At the end of the process many clients are so exhausted with their decision making that when we mention lighting decisions, the response is, “Oh yeah, we need to pick light fixtures!” Good lighting decisions can make a space really pop, but bad lighting decisions can leave you feeling like something is missing that you just can’t put your finger on. To simplify things a bit, here are your lighting decisions summarized in three categories:
Decorative Lighting Yes, decorative lighting doesn’t necessarily take center stage like many of the other components of your newly remodeled space do, but it plays a very important role. Think of decorative lighting as the jewelry you select to coordinate with an outfit. Like jewelry, decorative lighting should add value to the entire space. It should be proportional and needs to complement not just the cabinetry or flooring but also the wall color. As well, it should fit the theme of the room. The best decorative lighting choice creates visual interest without being a distraction.
Task Lighting Of course, the fashionable lighting decisions don’t always provide the best function in all spaces. Enter task lighting. Task lighting decisions will include things like under cabinet or countertop lighting, cooking surface lighting, sink area lighting, shower lighting, or vanity mirror lighting. Because these lights are usually brighter and more concentrated, pay close attention to the temperature of the LED lighting you select (expressed as K or Kelvin). A good designer can walk you through the right light temperature for task lights.
Ambient Lighting While decorative and task lighting will help contribute to the overall ambient light, most spaces need a third layer of lighting to fully illuminate an area. Generally, recessed lighting that is dimmable and spread strategically throughout a space will fill this need. Uplighting over the tops of cabinetry or crown molding and lighting inside of glass front cabinetry can also create interest and contribute to ambient lighting needs. There are many decisions to make when remodeling a new space, but the right lighting decisions play an integral role in making it shine!
Brad Little is the president of Case design/remodeling of Charlotte and has been leading a team of award-winning designers and craftsmen since 2005. to view more of their projects and schedule a free consultation, visit www.casecharlotte.com or call 704-759-3920.