Main Types Of Lighting In Interior Design

Architecture
28/11/2023

Lighting is one of the most important elements of interior design. Well, it can quite literally light up your life.

Jokes aside, lighting can set the mood of a room, highlight key features of the room, and create a greater sense space. There are a few different types of lighting that are often used in interior design, each with its own unique purpose.

This guide will bring you through the four main types of lighting in interior design. With this knowledge in your pocket, you will be better equipped to choose the best lighting for your home interior in for your next home renovation project. Let’s dive right in!

Ambient Lighting

First up is ambient lighting, which is the general lighting in a room. It provides a uniform level of light throughout the space and is used to create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere.

Ambient lighting can be provided by ceiling fixtures, wall sconces, or table lamps. This type of light is indirect and therefore it is softer than general lighting. As a result, it doesn’t create unflattering shadows.

While general lighting is practical for daily use, ambient lighting is generally used to set the mood for the room. It can be used for entertaining guests, creating a sense of drama in the space. See how the living room space in the photo above is transformed with the expert use of ambient light.

Task Lighting

Next, we have task lighting. Just like its name suggests, it is used to provide focused light for specific activities, such as reading, working, or cooking.

Task lighting can be provided by table lamps, floor lamps, or task lights that are attached to the furniture. It is usually combined with adequate ambient light, to avoid eye strain caused by sharp contrasts between lighter and darker areas.

The kitchen is one main area where task lighting must be added to make the cooking process easier and safer. Recessed downlights over worktops, spotlights under the cabinets, or a low pendant light over the kitchen island are some ways to incorporate kitchen task lighting.

Accent Lighting

This is the lighting to introduce sparkle and glamour to any space – accent lighting.

Accent lighting has a specific role to play in the home. It is used to highlight particular features in a room, such as artwork, architectural details, or plants.

Some types of accent lighting include track lights, recessed lights, and wall sconces. Spotlights that highlight objects in cabinets, artwork, or sculptures are examples of accent lighting. With this lighting, you can show off your prized collection with a well-lit space.

Natural Light

Lastly, natural lighting is the best type of lighting for any room. It provides a soft, diffused light that makes a room feel more spacious. Additionally, natural light helps to wake your brain up and it comes at no cost at all!

Light will differ depending on the direction the room is facing. It helps to install window coverings to control the level of natural light coming in. Having sheer curtains are one way to allow light to enter the room without it becoming too bright.

To receive the benefits of natural light, let in as much natural light into your home as possible by opening up curtains and blinds during the day.

Pick The Best Lighting For Your Home

To conclude, it is important to consider the function of the room, the size of the room, and the mood you wish to create when you choose lighting.

For example, you would use different types of lighting in a living room compared to a bedroom. In a living room, you might want to use a combination of ambient and accent lighting to create a comfortable and inviting space. Meanwhile, you might want to use more ambient lighting to create a relaxing and restful atmosphere for the bedroom.

With a little planning, you can choose the right types of lighting to create a beautiful and functional living space!

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