By Gianna Marzella

While many people have ideas about lighting styles they like, the technical knowledge to execute a lighting plan is often less forthcoming.  We are going to do a deep dive into different lighting types, when they are most appropriate, and how to blend them all for a pulled together space. 

The first step in lighting design is to identify the specific needs and objectives of the space. Consider factors such as the function of the space (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial), the activities that will take place there, the mood or atmosphere desired, and any architectural features that should be highlighted. You also need to familiarize yourself with fundamental lighting principles such as brightness, color temperature, color rendering, and distribution. Understanding these principles will help you select appropriate lighting fixtures and configurations for different applications.

TYPES OF LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION

Ambient lighting provides overall illumination to a space. It's often referred to as general lighting and is designed to create a uniform level of light throughout a room. Ambient lighting can come from ceiling-mounted fixtures, recessed lights, or even wall sconces. Its purpose is to ensure that the entire space is adequately lit for basic visibility and comfort.

Task lighting is designed to provide focused illumination for specific tasks or activities. It's typically brighter and more concentrated than ambient or general lighting. Task lighting fixtures are often adjustable or directional to provide the right amount of light exactly where it's needed. Examples of task lighting include desk lamps, under-cabinet lights in kitchens, and reading lights next to a bed, etc... The purpose of task lighting is to reduce eyestrain and improve visibility for specific activities.

Accent lighting highlights specific objects or architectural features to create visual interest and drama. It's often achieved through spotlights, track lighting, or wall-mounted fixtures.  A light fixture aimed at a work of art is an example of accent lighting. 

Decorative lighting enhances the aesthetic appeal of a space with decorative fixtures such as pendants, sconces, or decorative lamps. While it may not or may not provide significant illumination, it adds character and ambiance to the environment.  Note that sometimes decorative lighting is also part of the ambient lighting.  This is especially true when there are not downlights/recessed lights in a space and the ambient lighting is coming solely from decorative sources, such as pendant and floor lamps.  When downlights are present, these other decorative lights can be used as simply that, décor. 

Each type of lighting serves a distinct purpose and can be used in combination to create a well-lit and functional space tailored to the needs of its occupants.  

In addition to understanding the types of lighting, it is important to also understand the different factors that affect how light is distributed and how it appears to us.  Different types of light fixtures have specific lighting distribution characteristics based on their design and placement.  The type of light source, whether incandescent, fluorescent, LED, or halogen, affects the quality and distribution of light emitted.

Types of light sources are usually listed on vendor websites, but it can be tricky to understand what all the terms mean. Brightness is the most obvious.  Finding the appropriate brightness can be challenging, and this is where dimmers become your best friend. When in doubt, go with the maximum brightness and taper it down with dimmers.  Make sure your dimmers are compatible with the fixtures and bulbs you are selecting. The simplest way to understand brightness is by referring to the lumens. 

Lumens are a unit of measurement used to quantify the total amount of visible light emitted by a light source. In simpler terms, lumens measure the brightness of a light source as perceived by the human eye.  Unlike watts, which measure the amount of power consumed by a light source, lumens directly measure the light output. Therefore, when comparing different light bulbs or fixtures, lumens provide a more accurate indication of brightness regardless of the energy efficiency or power consumption of the light source.  Lumens indicate the total amount of visible light emitted by a light source, providing a standardized measure of brightness that is critical to consider when choosing your lighting. 

Color temperature is also very important. It is measured in Kelvins.  The lower the color temperature, the yellower/warmer the light, the higher the number, the bluer/cooler the light.  Typically, designers favor 2700k – 3000K in residential and hospitality applications, 3000K – 3500K in office settings, and upwards off 3500K in industrial applications. Color temperature has a tremendous impact on how we feel in a space, and what that space looks like.  If a bulb is too cold, it can make the entire room look stark and uninviting.  The way our eyes perceive the colors and finishes in space will change based on the color temperature.  If it is too warm (lower kelvins), the lighting can cast a yellow hue.    

Once you have a good grasp of the above fundamentals, you can get into the actual lighting design. The layout and function of a space determine the most suitable lighting distribution pattern. For example, a kitchen may require focused task lighting over countertops and ambient lighting for overall illumination. Ceiling height and color influence how light is distributed and perceived within a space. Light-colored ceilings and higher ceilings can help diffuse light more effectively.  By understanding and carefully planning lighting distribution, we can create functional, visually appealing, and comfortable environments tailored to the specific needs of the space and its occupants.

The best lighting design and approach is layered. A blend of ambient, task, accent, and decorative lighting is the best way to ensure a lighting plan is not only effective, but also interesting.  Choose lighting fixtures that not only fulfill the functional requirements of the space but also complement its aesthetic and architectural style. Consider factors such as fixture size, shape, style, color, and finish to ensure they integrate seamlessly with the overall design scheme.  The way we use our spaces evolves and changes, and a good lighting plan can adapt to that.  

We hope this deep dive into lighting design will be helpful for your next project.  Maybe that project will be complete overhaul.  Or perhaps you have felt that your current space just feels slightly off.  A tweak or two using the methods outlines above may be all you need to go from just okay to polished and perfected. 

Every space is special and challenging in its own way, and all demand proper consideration in order to create optimal enjoyment.  To learn more about our designers and what they can do for you, take a look at our member directory.  

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