Design: an Interior stylist guide to lighting in space.
Good lighting, whether natural or artificial is one of the most important features, when designing or styling any space. we must use the right lighting for different purposes.
Still, nothing beats natural lights, however, these are only temporary, at least till about 5 pm, when the sun starts to go down.
We should always make the most of natural light, and artificial lights by mimicking both sources of light according to our circadian rhythm.
The circadian cycle is a natural, and internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and repeats roughly every 24 hours.
When installing light features into our space it is very important to note the variety
of lighting used in different spaces, this may include but is not limited to;
Ceiling light- Also called Recessed lights. These lights are for both day and night use and general illumination but are not appropriate when you are trying to relax or sleep, although some Recess light now comes with dimmer features.
Table lamps- This type of light is usually used to keep the room from total darkness when it's time for bed, it usually emits a low and warm glow and aids sleep, however, you cannot replace general lights for table lamps, table lamps, are also used in other parts of a space, such as on the consoles tables in the hallway or even the side table of a living room for aesthetics. regardless, I think they should remain in the bedroom, after all, that is where they'll get the most use.
Task lights/ reading lights- these lights are used for a workspace either your home office or your out-of-home office. these lights are really useful, for book lovers, especially those of us who can't get any sleep unless we read. general lights are quite too glaring for reading, and bedside lamps just don't emit enough light for reading, the best option is to get a task lamp or a reading lamp.
Floor lamps: These are my favourite, especially if you just love to create a nook for ambient purposes in any space. floor lamps are a no-brainer, both in residential and commercial spaces, and there is a wide range of them, you can never go wrong with them. they work for every and almost any space, even bathrooms! Yes, I said it, when styled and done right, you'd be surprised how much you love having them.
Best believe no matter what your interior style is, there is a floor lamp that fits that style perfectly.
Wall scones- these are great lighting options, they give the right amount of glow, without it being as glaring and as annoying as Recess lights, Wall scones are great for bedrooms, hallways and bathrooms.
Style tip; place wall scones on either side of your bathroom mirror to give you that beautiful glow, Wall scones are also used for outdoor purposes (security lights) they come in different designs just to fit your taste.
Pendant lights: Another of my favourite, although these lights are usually used in the kitchen (island) or dining areas, for most people who don't like the flamboyance of a Chandelier, then Pendant lights are the best option, especially if you are looking to incorporate a modern or contemporary look into your space.
Pendant lights can also be fitted as a suspended bedside lamp, I love to use this in my bedroom styling mood boards a lot, Pendant lights can also be used in children's spaces, it always gives fun and funky vibes.
Chandelier – chandelier is a light suspended from the ceiling with multiple light bulbs incorporated into a single fixture. The pendant light is a light fixture that is suspended from the ceiling with only a single light bulb incorporated into its fixture.
So when next you are going light shopping, keep this in mind.
Chandeliers are however best used in the dining area and the living room. some minimalist or modern chandeliers can also be used in the bedroom.
Article by;
Gbemisola Akinwale
Interior stylist & Design + Lifestyle writer