Find out the different layers of interior lighting: General Lighting, Ambient Lighting, Task Lighting, Mood Lighting and Accent Lighting!
Photo Courtesy of Homeworks Consultancy
Let’s take a look at the main layers of interior lighting which are commonly used when we are designing a well-lit space! As for the different types of light fixtures, they might fall under the same type of interior lighting depending on their functions, locations and brightness.
1. General Lighting
The basic/first layer of home lighting will be general lighting. The purpose of this lighting is to illuminate the entire space/room uniformly. Its function is more towards functionality than aesthetic.
April Russell, an Interior Designer mentions that, “General lighting is just that - practical light for every day and night use…”
General lighting by itself, especially in the form of just a central light source will cast unflattering shadows. Besides, having just a general lighting for your home will not be enough to create a welcoming atmosphere!
Some example of Light Fixtures for general lighting:
Central Pendant Light
Chandelier
Track Lighting
Recessed downlight
Light on Ceiling Fan
Photo Courtesy of Homeworks Consultancy
Design & Build by Homeworks Consultancy | Lighting by Lititon
Photo Courtesy of Homeworks Consultancy
Design & Build by Homeworks Consultancy | Lighting by Lititon
2. Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting is a great accompaniment to general lighting. This lighting will be the second layer of home lighting.
April Russell further explains that, “ Ambience lighting will more times out of none be connected to a dimming system to control the light levels depending on the occasion. Ambience lighting is generally used for entertaining – it creates drama.”
The difference between ambient lighting and general lighting is the direction of their light.
Ambience lighting casts a softer effect than general lighting as it is indirect and does not usually use downlighting. Thus, it does not cause unflattering shadows.
Some example of Light Fixtures for ambient lighting:
Wall Sconces that create a wall washing effect
Backlit Acrylic Panelling
Concealed Coffer Lighting
Photo Courtesy of Homeworks Consultancy
Angie’s Oyster Bar & Grill | Design & Build by Homeworks Consultancy
Photo Courtesy of Homeworks Consultancy
Kuan Kuan Spicy Hotpot | Design & Build by Homeworks Consultancy | Lighting by Lititon
3. Task Lighting
The third layer of home lighting. Under this category, the light source is normally used for a particular task such as working, reading, cooking, applying makeup, etc. The light needs to have a higher and stronger wattage than other lightings.
Tips: task lighting needs to be accompanied with adequate ambient lighting as not to result in a sharp contrast from light to dark areas.
Some example of Light Fixtures for task lighting:
Mirror Lighting at bedroom/bathroom vanity counter
Under-cabinet Lighting (spotlights/recessed downlights) beneath kitchen cabinet
Pendant Lights at kitchen preparation island/bathroom vanity counter.
Adjustable Floor Lamps
Desk Lamps (normally the one with movable arm)
Table Lamps
Wall Sconces that provides downlight
Riser Lights on Stairs
Photo Courtesy of Homeworks Consultancy
Design & Build by Homeworks Consultancy | Lighting by Lititon
4. Mood Lighting
The fourth layer of home lighting. It is to counteract the shadows casted by general lighting. It creates a room that is welcoming and not bare. Mood lighting normally adds style to a room and it is a layer of lighting that is closest to eye level.
If you want to use mood lighting for your room, the lights with “ Paler tones are best to allow as much light to shine through; a darker shade is great if you’re going for a moody, atmospheric look. Silver and gold linings are best for replicating a luxurious glow.” - LuxDeco
Some example of Light Fixtures for mood lighting:
Table Lamps
Floor Lamps
Photo Courtesy of Homeworks Consultancy
Design & Build by Homeworks Consultancy
5. Accent Lighting
Last but not least, the fifth layer of home lighting: accent lighting highlights a particular feature in a room or specific areas, artworks, sculptures, objects in cabinets or on pedestals. This type of lighting requires higher wattage so as to emphasise the illuminated objects and prevent them from being lost in an under-illuminated space.
Some example of Light Fixtures for accent lighting:
Recessed lighting
Wall sconces
Track lighting
Picture lighting
Cove lighting to define perimeters of a room instead of a specific object
Photo Courtesy of Homeworks Consultancy
Fat Belly | Design & Build by Homeworks Consultancy | Lighting by Lititon
Thus, light is indeed crucial in every space planning whether it involves planning of residential, hospitality, office or even commercial projects!
By familiarising yourself with the different layers of Interior Lighting and knowing where and why you need to install the different types of light fitting at your homes/cafes/restaurant/etc, it will definitely set your space apart, bringing it into a new level of atmosphere and ambience.
Give it a try or simply contact Homeworks Consultancy and leave it to their professional hands!
If you are looking to purchase different types of Interior Lightings for your home or even for any commercial projects, you may visit Lititon at lititon.com.sg
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