Complete Guide to Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a pleasant and functional ambiance in our homes.

Choosing the right light source is about more than just selecting beautiful fixtures; it also involves understanding how different light sources affect the space and comfort of our daily environment.

Types of Luminaires and Their Uses

Bedside Lamps

Table lamps not only add additional lighting but also a decorative element.

They are ideal for window sills, side tables, or on furniture to raise the light source.

They allow you to vary the lighting heights in a room, thus creating a welcoming and well-balanced atmosphere.

Ceiling lights

Ceiling lights provide general lighting and are especially useful in large rooms or spaces with high ceilings.

They come in a variety of styles, from simple spotlights to elegant pendant lights that can serve as a decorative centerpiece.

Wall Lights

Wall sconces are a flexible solution for adding light without taking up space. They are perfect as reading lights or for illuminating work surfaces. Some models offer adjustable arms, making them particularly practical next to sofas or beds.

Floor lamps

Versatile, floor lamps can be used in almost any room. They are particularly effective in dark corners or as additional lighting in bedrooms

Floor lamps also offer the flexibility to direct light where it is needed most.

Lighting Basics

General Lighting

Any room requires general lighting to provide sufficient illumination for everyday tasks like cleaning and finding objects.

This can be achieved using spotlights or a ceiling light. The choice of general lighting will depend on many factors such as the height of the ceiling, the recessing possibilities, and the color of the walls and floor.

Tips for Optimizing General Lighting

• Integrate lighting fixtures that can be oriented to adjust the light as needed.
• Ensure each room has at least five light points, combining ceiling lights, wall sconces, and other sources such as table lamps and string lights.

Directional and Ambient Lighting

For more focused and aesthetic lighting, options include pendants and wall sconces, which not only illuminate, but also add an element of style to your interior.

Choice of Suspensions

• Glass pendant lights, whether clear, opal, or smoked glass, disperse light evenly. A closed-top design will direct light only downwards, ideal above dining tables.

Wall Lights

• Sconces are perfect for tight spaces. They can be positioned as reading lamps or to illuminate work surfaces in the kitchen.

The right source of light

Choosing the right temperature

Kelvin	2200K	2700K (standard)	3000K	5000K
Light Effect	Warm light	Warm light	Hot/Cold	Cold light
Pieces	Living room and bedroom	Living room, bedroom and kitchen	Bathroom, hall and exterior	Workplace and exterior

Interpretation of the Table

• 2200K: Creates a warm atmosphere ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.
• 2700K: Also warm, suitable for living rooms, bedrooms and kitchens.
• 3000K: Mixed light, usable in bathrooms, halls, and even outdoors.
• 5000K: A cool light recommended for workplaces and outdoor spaces, as it helps you stay focused and energetic.

Choose Lighting According to Activity and Room

Lighting must be adapted not only to the space, but also to the intended use. For example, dim lighting may be preferable in a living room where relaxation is required, while brighter lighting may be necessary in a kitchen where tasks require good visibility.

Lumen and Kelvin: What is the difference?

• Kelvin (K): Indicates the color temperature of light, measured in degrees Kelvin. Low values ​​(2200 to 3000 K) produce warm light, while high values ​​(3300 to 5000 K) create cooler light.

• Lumen: Measures the amount of light emitted by a light source. The higher the number of lumens, the brighter the light.

Using Light Dimmers

• Dimmers are extremely useful for adjusting lighting throughout the day; bright for the morning and softer for the evening, facilitating the transition to rest.

Choosing the right light source involves understanding the specific needs of each room as well as the impact of color temperature on the desired ambiance.

With the options available today, from cost-effective LED to modern lighting fixture designs, every space in the home can be beautifully lit while remaining functional.