Choosing the Right Lighting Fixtures for a Space

There are a few ways to categorize lighting, but one distinction is between ambient, task, and accent lighting. 

Light is more than a complement to ambiance. It defines the feel of an area and is also functionally significant. 

Let's discuss lighting fixtures and how they can make a room or outdoor setting more inviting.

Different types of lighting

There are a few ways to categorize lighting, but one distinction is between ambient, task, and accent lighting. 

Ambient lighting makes the overall space bright and visible. Typically, this is what ceiling fixtures, chandeliers, or recessed lights achieve. 

Task lighting bears this name because it serves a particular purpose, such as reading or cooking. Think of desk lamps, under-cabinet lights, flashlights, or pendant lights as examples of these fixtures. 

Accent lights also fulfill a particular purpose, although a less useful one. Rather than making a task easier, they accentuate architectural features, artwork, or other attention-worthy details. Track lighting, wall-mounted fixtures, and spotlights usually fall into this category.

How to choose a light fixture

Some fixtures might fit better depending on the size of a room. More spacious rooms and higher ceilings need more powerful lights to shine, or you could use multiple fixtures instead. 

The next question to answer is the purpose of the space. If used for work, relaxation, entertainment, or a combination, it will influence the best type of lighting.

Of course, a lighting fixture isn't merely functional. While the light it emits is the most significant aspect, the fixture should still match the room's decor and theme. For example, it could be modern, traditional, industrial, rustic, or antique. There are fixtures in all these styles and more, so choose the one that fits best.

Also, if an area relies exclusively on artificial light, it might need more powerful lights than an area with plenty of natural light. 

Select the right fixture for each room

Mix ambient, task, and accent lights in living rooms to make them bright and visible. This will offer ample potential for cozier, more focused environments like late-night reading. It is desirable to install dimmers and movement sensors.

Use bright overhead lights in kitchens. Cooking and cleaning require precision, so everything should be easy to see. Also, add under-cabinet lights for countertops. They make it easier to prepare food and use various kitchen tools.

Bedrooms should have soft, warm lights, such as bedside reading lamps. Avoid blue-ish lights in the bedroom as they can disrupt sleep patterns.

Light the home the right way

Some lighting fixtures may be easy to DIY, and homeowners don't need a professional to change a light bulb. However, having an expert install fixtures and carry out electrical work, such as wiring and setting the fixture into the wall or ceiling, is a good idea.
Kennedy Electric is a reliable full-service electrical company serving residential and commercial customers in Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco Counties. We offer electrical repairs, boat lift wiring, remodels, low voltage lighting, generator hookups, RV power, electrical inspections, fan installation, home lighting, new circuits, panels, and more. Call today at 352-251-2795.