The Transformative Power of Lighting in Interior Design
The unsung heroes of many beautifully designed rooms are the same elements that help you read, prepare meals, find something to wear… the lights of course. Lighting is a mood creator, which in turns effects the design. The type of bulb you use, the positioning, and the style and size of fixtures, determines the ambiance in your room, and what you choose depends on the feel you are after. Of course, there are basic design considerations such as the height of a pendant over a kitchen island, or the number of recessed can lights needed to adequately brighten a space, but there is so much more! Lighting choices can shape the atmosphere of a room, and add style and personality. In last month’s blog, I mentioned how light fixtures are like the accessories of the home.
You can read it here: 5 Expert Tips For Transforming Your Builder Grade Home
Swanky Sconces
Sconces offer an intimate, architectural lighting addition. Instead of hanging a flat rectangular piece of art on every wall, a sconce becomes a sculptural element and adds interest as well as illumination. Everything from petite chrome candlestick sconces to 4 foot tall iron torchieres; there is something for every home and every style. They can be used in a variety of locations for a bit of ambient light. Ideal places to think about adding a sconce are hallways, entryways, and powder rooms. But I’ve also seen them successfully incorporated in unexpected places like kitchens and laundry rooms to create a totally custom look.
Table and Floor Lamps with Personality
Lamps can be overlooked as just utilitarian. Or sometimes, not used at all. But that is a missed opportunity to add style to the room. First off, the soft glow from lamplight, especially with the right warm white bulb, is one of the most effective ways to create ambience. Unless you are intentionally going for the cold sterile look, be sure to incorporate two to four lamps in each space and avoid using only your overhead bright lights. Lamps come in all sizes and there is something for every purpose and every need. Larger floor lamps and table lamps in the living room in colors and textures that complement your décor, medium-sized lamps with a pretty glow in guest bedrooms, small lamps with interesting lamp shades on a kitchen countertop or bookshelf.
Posh Pendants & Chic Chandeliers
Whether they’re bold or barely-there, pendants and chandeliers can set the tone. Crystals, hand blown glass, aged brass, natural woven textures – hanging light fixtures are a big part of any design. And because they’re often centered in a room, they carry visual weight and presence, making their style and scale especially important. When choosing the right pieces for our clients, I take into account more than just the material it’s made of. I look at ceiling height, the dimensions, and what mood we want the space to evoke. The goal is always to find a fixture that doesn’t just fill the space—but completes it.
Lighting is one of the most transformative elements in a well-designed room. The right fixture not only serves a function, but also enhances the character of a space. When every detail matters, lighting shouldn’t be an afterthought.
Utilizing our network of quality vendors, we select distinctive, intentional lighting that is tailored to your home. To contact Teresa Cannon Design about designing one or more rooms in your home, click here.
To download a helpful guide for choosing the right interior designer for your needs, click here.
Until next time,
Teresa