The benefits of layered lighting in your home

As the nights draw in closer, and our evenings become less bright, it is time to think about artificial lighting and why it is so important to incorporate it into the design of our homes.

Good lighting can make a big impact on the look and feel in a room and it is one of the first things a person will notice when they walk in.

A well-lit room will provide a welcoming atmosphere and create a comfortable environment in your home. It has the power to transform a room by making it feel spacious, create ambience, enhance colours and textures, and highlight architectural features.

A poorly lit room can make a space feel cramped and uninviting. It is, therefore, essential to incorporate layered lighting into the design of your home.

There are three main types of lighting we should all have in our homes to create a layered lighting look. But layered lighting isn’t just about looks; it helps to build a functional space and provides a practical solution to our needs.

The first type is Ambient Lighting which is the general lighting of a room. It’s the main source of light that replaces natural daylight, ensuring overall visibility in the space and providing even illumination. Pendants or chandeliers, wall lights, or recessed lights can all make up the ambient lighting in a room.

Second, is Task Lighting which will light up areas where certain activities such as reading, working, or cooking are taking place. Its primary purpose is to provide sufficient lighting in that area so as not to strain the eyes by enhancing visibility and reducing shadows. Examples include desk lamps, under-cabinet kitchen lights, and pendant lights over workstations or islands.

The third is Accent Lighting which highlights features like wall art, architectural details, plants or focal points. Its primary purpose is to draw attention to these features, creating visual interest and add depth to the room. Spotlights, strip lighting, and wall-mounted fixtures are good examples.

Layered lighting uses these three lighting techniques to fully illuminate a room, but it is not about flooding a room with light. 

By layering the light in different areas, the lighting serves distinct purposes. We can control when we use certain lights depending on the mood we are trying to achieve, or if we require it for a certain function. Layered lighting reduces harsh shadows and minimises glare by spreading light more evenly in a space. Each layer of light works together to complement the next to create a harmonious lighting design.

Understanding the various colour temperatures and brightness levels of light bulbs can significantly affect your space. Bright, cool-toned lighting enhances focus and concentration, while dimmer, warmer lighting promotes relaxation and calm.

Colour temperature is measured in Kelvins (K). A warm white light (2700K-3000K) is calming and relaxing and therefore is good for living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms. A cool white light (3500K-5000K) is energising and stimulating, and you might use this in kitchens, bathrooms, a study or a utility room where clearer visibility is needed.

Installing dimmer lights in areas such as an open plan space or living room means you can control the ambience in the space, adjusting the light down for a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere. 

By reducing the brightness, this also lowers the amount of electricity consumed leading to lower energy bills. For optimal energy savings, pair dimmable LED bulbs with these dimmer switches.

Additionally, smart lighting systems are becoming increasingly popular. These allow you to control lights, adjust colour and brightness remotely or set schedules to ensure lights are only on when necessary. It offers enhanced convenience, energy efficiency, security and customisation - a worthwhile investment.

Consider your floor and table lamps to be more than just lights in your home. These can help tie the scheme of a room together in colour and vibe as well as providing that ambient or task lighting you require. Instead of getting lamps that blend in, get one that is like a feature or an art piece, and notice how one or two really good lamps can change how a room feels.

Whether you are revamping a single room or embarking on a full home design, don’t underestimate the importance of layered lighting. The right fixtures and bulbs can work wonders to transform the way a space feels, functions and looks.

Ultimately, good lighting is not just about practicality - it’s about creating an atmosphere that enhances the beauty and functionality of your home. So, the next time you’re planning your next interior update, remember to use layered lighting in your home.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michelle Fox, Interior Designer, working in the Cork and Munster area, loves to create the home you love to live in. Together with your personality and Michelle’s eye for design, she will create a home for you that reflects who you are and what your style is, bringing function and form, making your home beautiful, while keeping your wishes and budget in mind.

Whether it’s a new build or existing room(s) you need help with, contact Michelle at michellefoxinteriors@gmail.com.

You will also find Michelle on Facebook and Instagram @michellefoxinteriors.