Now that Daylight Saving Time has ended, sunset here on the East Coast comes before 5:00 pm. And even if you don’t suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), that lack of daylight can be trying at times. So, now is the perfect time to add a bit of light… indoors. While the Mayo Clinic suggests that use of a specially designed light box can offer relief, I am actually talking about garden variety table lamps, pendants, overhead lights, and chandeliers.
In the Mental Floss article, “7 Ways Lighting Can Make Your Home Happier,” editorial staff identify key benefits to adding more light to your home. For example, did you know that bright lighting is essential to staying alert and focused? Or that bright light can make people feel warmer, even when the room temperature remains the same? And of course, twinkle lights and candles create an oh-so-cozy ambiance no matter what time of year it is!
So, which lights should you add, and which should you skip? Here are our top tips:
Cold Versus Warm Light
I once had a fluorescent fixture in the kitchen. It was the worst light ever and I replaced it as soon as I could. While you can’t always escape fluorescent lights (most often used in commercial applications such as at the grocery store or in the office), if you have Fluorescent Light Sensitivity, keep these far, far away from your home. Although they are energy-efficient, use of fluorescents can cause eye strain, blurred or impaired vision, headaches or migraine attacks, and lightheadedness, among other issues.
LEDs are a newer option and also energy-efficient. However, choosing the right type is essential and can be tricky. Soft, warm, daylight? According to the experts at Homebuilding and Renovating, “Warm white light contains more red, orange and yellow tones, which creates a softer light with a more cosy feel. Cooler light contains more blue, which makes for a crisper, fresher light. Cool light is brighter than warm light, making it better suited to task lighting, but also means it can feel harsh in the wrong setting.”
Adding a lamp with a warm hued bulb can help mitigate the feel of overly harsh permanent lighting, as well. For example, placing a table lamp on a desktop not only helps with task lighting but can mitigate the effects of undesirable, but permanently installed overhead lighting (this is a common problem for renters).
Layering Light from Multiple Sources
A “layered” lighting scheme incorporates light from multiple sources – from overhead lights, to table lamps, to sconces. Weaving in a mixture helps create a warm, welcoming, and functional space.
I am particularly fond of a combination of table lamps and floor lamps. The varying heights add ambient light and interest. Throw in a chandelier (I just installed one in my bedroom) and you have lighting perfection!
New battery operated light bulbs now allow you to add lamps to any space, regardless of outlet availability or cord reach. Cordless wall sconces and table lamps are easy to incorporate into spaces such as bathrooms, which often rely on a single overhead fixture.
Make it Yours. Lighting with Personality!
In the article “5 Lighting Trends You’re About to See Everywhere, According to Designers,” at The Spruce, choosing unique pieces with personality was cited as on the top trends in lighting. “Bringing personality into the home is one of the key small space trends for the year, with more people reaching for pieces they love for that dopamine decor effect,” explains Andrea Schumacher, interior designer and founder of Andrea Schumacher Interiors. “For example, colored glass chandeliers are vibrant and eye-catching, perfect for adding a pop of color and elegance to any room.”
Choosing pieces with your unique, personal style opens up the possibility for a wide variety of metals and materials. Powder coated metal? Sure. Bamboo or rattan? Yes. French-inspired crystal drops? Absolutely! Finding the right lighting means finding what you love.
What are the Correct Lighting Heights?
In the US, the majority of ceilings in homes are eight feet. However, many new build homes boast taller ceilings, with nine and 10-foot ceilings becoming more common. So, lighting fixture height will relate to the overall space.
For example, when hanging a pendant light or chandelier over a dining room table, consider how far down you want the light to hang. The fixture must provide illumination, but not obstruct the view of those seated at the table. In general, for pendants and chandeliers, the bottom of the fixture should be at least 30 inches from the top of the dining room table. For pendants over a kitchen island, the bottom of the light should also be at least 30 inches from the countertop.
When hanging lighting in hallways or entryways, there should be at seven feet between the bottom of the fixture and the floor. Also, pay close attention to any door clearances. For ceilings higher than eight feet, add a little extra space in your measurement.
Bathroom wall sconces should generally be positioned between 66 to 72 inches from the floor. However, based on the occupants’ height, this can be adjusted to make the lighting more functional.
Ready for a new lighting scheme? We’ve included some inspiration photos above to get you started. Let there be light!
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Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style and was named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone. You’ll find everything from fashion, jewelry, beauty and accessories, to gorgeous gardens and stunning interiors and DIY projects, plus the latest ideas events of all kinds. Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait!
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