Last updated on July 26th, 2023
While finding the perfect wall color to match your sofas isn’t rocket science, things are not as simple when it comes to lighting. And frankly, when you imitate what you see on internet images, chances of making faux pas are high.
Certain areas of your home require task or accent lights. But these lights may not be necessary in other areas. So, what are the tricks of the trade? And what are the most common mistakes people make when lighting up their homes? Let’s find out.
No dimmers
This is one of the most common faux pas in home décor. Glaring light fixtures can disturb sleep patterns and give your home a clinical feel. Remember, one glove doesn’t fit all. Each space in your home has specific needs. What works for your kitchen isn’t necessarily going to work in other areas of your home.
Recessed lights are effective in kitchens when paired with countertop task lights and island pendants. But they may be wasted in your foyer as it will make the space look gloomy. A lamp or a pair of sconces on the console table is a better bet. However, a couple of ambiance spots on the ceiling will not harm this space.
Missing task lights in the kitchen
Task lights are essential in the kitchen where you need illumination for fine-cutting jobs. While recessed lighting provides overall illumination, it doesn’t do much for your kitchen countertop. Yes, pendant lights are to die for. But these lights are ineffective when you want to check your iceberg lettuce for worms. So, get some task lights, pronto!
Wrong lighting for your space
Apart from the functional aspect, there is also the matter of ambiance to be considered. Rows of recessed lighting may be ideal for your kitchen but unnecessary on your bedroom ceiling, where you need soft mood lighting and reading lamps. In the same breath, soft lighting isn’t ideal for your kitchen countertop.
Bathroom lighting misadventures
Downlights over the vanity accentuate the beauty of your bathroom washbasin and the faucet. However, these lights give unflattering reflections and create shadows on your face. Moreover, the light isn’t enough for minute tasks such as shaving or putting on your makeup. To make these tasks easier, side sconces are a better option.
Using incandescent lights without dimmers
Halogen lights are effective light sources. However, this brightness may be more than you need when you want to retire for the night. Dimmers not only give your space a cozy feel but also decrease energy consumption and heat in your room. What’s more, your lamps will last a lot longer when you have dimmers.
No uniformity in light distribution
If the three types of lighting—task, ambiance, and accent—are not used properly, they will create a nonuniform distribution of light. This can cause contrast shadows on your walls and surfaces. To combat this, light layering is essential. To find out more about layering, check out this link on lighting.
Incorrect balance of ambiance and accent lights
Accent lights on walls that have nothing to accentuate are like an incomplete painting. To get the perfect lighting in your home, your ambiance lighting in the form of recessed lighting comes first. This is followed by accent lighting that highlights your shelving unit or artwork. Task lights are essential for side tables or corner chairs for reading. They also play a vital role on the kitchen counter for chopping vegetables or meat. A combination of all three is vital for functionality and ambiance.
Summing Up
Lighting is so much more than a tool to illuminate your space. It can be a game-changer, where your décor is concerned. Perfectly positioned lighting can take your home décor to the next level. Getting it right isn’t always easy without professional help. While these tips will give you a fair idea about your lighting issues, professionals are a better bet if you want to get the best out of your home décor. To find out more, contact us at homebliss.in.
