How to Select and Install the Perfect Lighting
Selecting lighting may initially seem straightforward, but there is significantly more to it than just finding a stylish fixture. If only we could pop in any old light bulb, wire it in and call it a day! To create the atmosphere and functionality you’re looking for, there is more strategy, math and numbers than you’d think.
Some considerations for buying and installing a light fixture:
Is it adjustable?
- Before buying a hanging fixture, look to see if it has an adjustable chain/chord (this is key to have an easy install).
Hang ‘em high… but not too high!
- Make sure your lights are not too low - no one wants to bump their head when sitting or standing. And no one wants to have a pendant in their face when trying to chat with someone across the table! However, when lighting is hung too high, it can make a space feel awkward. Pay attention to the details!
Scale is a game changer
- Proportion/scale is so important. In general, bigger is often better! Especially when designing on a budget, it’s easy to select light fixtures that get lost in a space because they’re too small. Make sure the fixture feels intentional and don’t be afraid to take up space.
Think through your bulbs!
- Bulbs are important! What temperature of light do they give off? (We suggest 2700k-3000k for a natural warm glow) How much light do they give off? Are they frosted, clear, large, small?
Make yourself look and feel better
- Don’t be scared to layer your lights. Mixing lighting is the foundation to an adequately lit space. A space feels significantly more desirable to be in when you can dim lights or turn off overhead lighting in the evenings. We all look a little prettier when the lights aren’t casting shadows under our eyes!
No home is the same so these numbers will vary especially depending on your ceiling height. A good range to stay around for the standard eight foot ceilings is from 30” - 36” of space from the top of the table to the bottom of the light fixture. From there, you can add 1” - 3” for each additional 1’ added to your ceiling height.
What do you want to know next?
Email kasey@kaseysmithinteriors.com and let us know what you want to see in our Design Guide series!