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When it comes to lighting, the ‘one size fits all’ approach definitely does not apply.

Think about how you use each room before deciding upon your lighting scheme.  Some rooms will be functional spaces where it is essential to have task lighting, other areas might be for relaxation, where harsh overhead lighting would fail to create the desired effect.

I have picked some key rooms to illustrate just how different the lighting requirements can be:

Kitchens - If you are a keen cook, you should make sure that your kitchen has sufficient task lighting.  Consider using lights underneath your cabinets to shed light on the work surfaces.  Ceiling spotlights are a great way of lighting a kitchen, without casting shadows.

Image courtesy of: Paul Sutcliffe / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Living Rooms – Layering your lighting in this room is essential.  It may be necessary to have overhead lighting for certain times of the day or for certain activities.  Consider using dimmer switches to allow you more control over the intensity and brightness of your lights. Teamed with table lamps and floor lamps you can create a cosy atmosphere in the evenings, or a relaxed environment when entertaining.

Dining Rooms - Think about the position of your table in the room, this is the area where you should be focusing your attention.  It is vital that there is sufficient lighting at the table.  This can be achieved in many ways such as using directional spotlights, or perhaps a low hanging pendant light above the table.  The dining room is often a key area for entertaining, make sure the room feels relaxed and welcoming.  Picture lights, or table lamps will help to create a space where people feel comfortable. Avoid harsh lighting, which could make the room feel flat and one-dimensional.

Bedrooms – Most people will find they need less light in their bedrooms than anywhere else in the house.  This is an area where the lighting should be soft and calming. Dimmer switches for any overhead lighting could be introduced to allow more control over the intensity of the lights. Bedside reading lamps should be considered to provide sufficient lighting for evening reading.

Image courtesy of: Maggie Smith / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Lighting really can transform a space.  Many people will find that they avoid using certain rooms in their homes because they are not lit correctly.  Avoid this happening by using my tips above and see what a difference well thought out lighting can make to your home.

The importance of lighting should never be underestimated, it can transform a space at the flick of a switch.

Good lighting can pull together a room scheme, finishing off the look and creating the perfect mood.  Lighting can be functional, practical, decorative and atmospheric.

Bad lighting can leave a room feeling cold, clinical and sparse.

With so much choice it can be a minefield.  Navigating through a barrage of wall lights, ceiling lights, pendants, chandeliers, shades, up-lighters, down-lighters, floor lamps, table lamps….the list could literally fill this page.

So where do you begin?  How do you create the perfect lighting scheme?

Time and time again I am asked about this.  So, I will be dedicating some serious blog time to this subject over the next few weeks.  Covering the basic principles, guiding you through the process, and inspiring you with ideas that you could achieve at home.

So, keep popping back to see the latest advice, and if you have any questions just let me know….

Let the lighting Masterclass begin!

Image courtesy of: Salvatore Vuono / FreeDigitalPhotos.net