The Impact of Lighting on Interior Design

"The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity."— Amelia Earhart

Lighting is one of the most powerful and often overlooked elements in interior design. A well-executed lighting plan can completely transform a room, affecting everything from its perceived size to its overall mood and functionality. Great lighting design goes beyond a single overhead fixture and involves creating multiple layers of light that work together.

A successful lighting scheme is built on three layers: ambient, task, and accent lighting. Ambient lighting is the overall illumination of the room, providing a comfortable level of brightness. This is typically supplied by ceiling fixtures like recessed lights, chandeliers, or flush mounts. Task lighting is focused light for specific activities, such as reading or cooking. Examples include under-cabinet lights in the kitchen, a desk lamp in an office, or a reading lamp next to a chair.

Finally, accent lighting is used to highlight architectural features or specific objects, like a piece of art, a plant, or a textured wall. Track lighting or picture lights are common forms of accent lighting. By combining these three layers, you create a space that is not only functional but also visually dynamic and atmospheric. Installing dimmers on all your lights is also crucial, as it gives you complete control over the intensity and mood of the room, allowing you to adjust the lighting for any occasion.