LIGHTING SERIES I

Have you ever stopped to think that the vast majority of the time spent in your home is in the evening? Consider your typical week. Even if you stay home all weekend for most people if they added up the hours in that week spent at home a surprising discovery would be that you are "in the dark", so to speak, a lot more than you realize.

I bring attention to this point to say this, now that you have that realization does it not make sense to seriously consider how important the lighting is in your home? Most homes are under lit and tend to be on the dark side. This effects the feeling and mood you have when you are in that space, it effects the ambiance, as well as the more practical side of things, the functionality to work, read, cook, safety, etc.

For this session, let's look at the basics, the three types and uses of lighting:

1. Ambient/General Lighting - is just that, general illumination more or less uniformly, the kind that we are all the most familiar with. This can be direct when the light is shining downward (over head) full on an object or surface or indirect where the light is thrown against a surface like recessed cove lighting for example. The light is thrown against the ceiling or alcove.
2. Task/Local Lighting - direct illumination needed for a specific place for a specific activity such as reading, cooking, etc. For eye comfort, it is best that this source is shielded such as a shade for a reading lamp or under cabinet hidden lighting for food prep. Otherwise, the result is extreme eye strain in a very short amount of time.
3. Accent/Decorative Lighting - illuminating artwork, sculptures, collections, trees, water feature, etc. that that draws attention as soon as you enter the room. That personal touch that highlights objects in the room and gives oh so much interest! Unfortunately, this is where the typical home owner falls short and misses this opportunity to create interest.

Light brings things to life!


Take a look around. Start making a difference inside and out!

Next month Something to think about…will continue with the series on lighting. If you have a question or something to share please write to me directly at Jessica@JSKinteriors.com