Artificial Lighting Effects in Interior Design

It is well acknowledged that once darkness falls there is a need to light up the rooms of our homes through the use of artificial lighting. There have been major improvements in the quality and styles of lighting available meaning there is now a wide array of choices available in the market. However, this has led to people focusing more on the actual fitting itself as opposed to the taking into consideration the most appropriate type of lighting for their scheme. There are five key types of lighting which are discussed in more detail below.

Ambient lighting is the name given to general background lighting. Its main function is to achieve an all-round level of light which is needed for practicality and safety. Ambient lighting is essential for all rooms and the most common types of fittings are pendants and low-voltage downlights. It is therefore not necessarily an attractive feature in itself but works best when used in conjunction with other forms of lighting to create character and interest.

Accent lighting is any form of lighting that is used to define and highlight specific areas or points of interest such as display objects. As well as creating a focal point in a room, it creates character and visual interest. Low voltage halogen spotlights are always a popular choice for this type of lighting as they can be recessed into a ceiling without detracting from the interior scheme. Another more traditional choice is brass picture lights and whilst still a popular choice they would also be a decorative feature and there should be in keeping with the rest of the scheme.

Task lighting is the type which allows us to complete certain tasks. It is a functional type of lighting that provides clear light for tasks such as reading or craftwork. Task lighting is important for safety and should be positioned such that it does not cause shadow. Although the chosen light fitting itself may have a feature, the bulb should not be exposed as it causes glare and results in tired eyes especially when carrying out close work.

Decorative lighting can double up as ambient lighting but it is mainly purchased for the way it looks for example a chandelier. Decorative lighting can be chosen for many reasons for example, the light fitting itself may be an art form in itself. This form of lighting blends interest to an interior scheme but is strictly sufficient by itself so needs to be combined with ambient lighting and possibly other forms to create a balanced effect. The important factor to consider in this case is not to use too many decorative fittings that may vie for attention and therefore detract from the overall scheme.

Kinetic lighting is moving light and is something we are no doubt more used to seeing in nightclubs, retail shops or even Picadilly Circus with the neon lights. This type of lighting can be either hypnotic and calming or distracting and irritating and as yet is not widely used in domestic environments. However, candles and fire provide kinetic lighting in its most basic form and can offer comfort and relaxation through the flickering of the naked flame. It is this hypnotic effect which has made kinetic lighting a popular choice for manufacturers of baby products who now produce lamps which throw a variety of soft shapes onto the ceiling.