Given that we spend a lot of time in our living rooms, we need to keep it well-lit. Proper lighting keeps this social space inviting and relaxing. In this practical series, we will discuss how you can achieve the best living room lighting. We will show you the practical steps you can take to create a warm, laid-back space.
Here are the things that you can do:
Create multiple sources of light
Today’s living rooms are multi-purpose spaces. We entertain guests, watch TV, eat, relax, and work here. As such, our living rooms require different kinds of lighting. Having multiple light sources allow you to do various tasks with ease.
When planning your living room lighting, start with identifying the space’s purpose. List down the things you ought to do here. Do you see yourself lying on the couch while reading a good book? How about a movie night and drinking with friends and family? Do you see yourself working in your living room? The answers to these questions are your guide when illuminating your living room. READ: How to Achieve Good Lighting and Ventilation
Make sure you have a combination of these lighting:
General lighting
Known as ambient lighting, these lights’ job is to illuminate most of the living room. It gives a soft glow that blankets the space. When opened, these lights enable you to see the room and move around comfortably.
The most popular forms of general lighting are ceiling oysters, tracking lights, recessed lights, chandeliers, pendant lights, and wall sconces. Boost your ambient lighting when you have a combination of these lights. When you have a correct combination of ambient lights, you end up with a fantastic and relaxing living room where you can relax after a stressful day. When installing ceiling lights, consider the position of the main living room furniture and the walkways. Make sure that the areas with high foot traffic are well-lit.
Also, put the TV far from overhead lights to avoid glare. Make sure that the lights near the TV emit soft lighting. Too dark and you will strain your eyes; too bright and the screen will appear washed out.
READ: 18 Ways to Install Mood Lighting Like a World-Class Designer
Task lighting
Task lights are smaller and produce a more concentrated light. It is for areas where you do focused tasks like reading, writing, or working. Task lights allow you to see what you’re doing.
However, task lights only work well when used in an area that receives less ambient lighting. Use them to brighten a corner of the living room darkened with shadows.
Some of the popular forms of task lighting are desk lamps, swing arm, floor lamps, under cabinet lights, and pendant lights.
Accent lighting
Accent lighting is concentrated and it highlights the focal point of the room. Use it to draw people’s attention to anything on display like your favourite painting, artwork, or an architectural feature. When lit, accent lights add drama and style to your home interiors.
LED strip lights are our favourite form of accent lighting. Our designers use it to emphasize bookshelves and the steps of the stairs.
Daylighting
Natural light is the most important light that should come in your living room. A living room flooded with the right amount of sunlight feels fresh and pleasant.
Use bulbs that emit warm white light
We want our living rooms warm and cozy, right? To achieve this look, use bulbs that emit a warm white light. These lights help set the mood, making you feel relaxed.
READ: Why You Should Prioritise Natural Ventilation and Daylighting
Expert living room lighting tips from our designers
- Use wall lights or wall sconces if you want to make your living room look and feel bigger.
- Put a floor lamp beside your corner armchair to create a reading nook. Use a dramatic, arc floor lamp.
- Don’t be afraid to use a statement pendant light in the living room. Apart from providing ambient lighting, these serve as a focal point. Choose a pendant light made of glass and crystals when you like chandelier-looking lights. Go for timber or rattan if you want something warm and contemporary. Consider metallic pendant lights if you want modern and simple interiors.
- Use the right-sized pendant lights. It must be obvious without overwhelming the space
- Install dimmers to control the amount of light in your living room.
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