subject: Lighting: Its Effects On Interior Design [print this page] When it comes to interior decoration we can add as many flourishes as we want, purchase only the most expensive and sophisticated items of furniture, and yet, something just does not feel right. We can struggle trying to find the source of our discomfiture, but never work it out. Indeed, many people fall prey to these feelings, so what could possibly be the problem? Normally, issues pertaining to interior decoration and a strange feeling that the room is not quite congruent are the fault of poor lighting. Thats right, lighting has a huge impact on interior decoration, choose the wrong lighting, and even the most beautifully decorated rooms will fall well short of their potential.
People are seldom aware that a carefully selected chandelier, or lampshade, with just the right wattage, in glass or a frosted effect, can make a huge difference to any room. There are many things to consider when determining the sort of lighting you should be making use of in a room. Which styles suit your decor, for instance, do you have a period property, in which case you should use period lighting to this end, chandeliers are perfect or is the property modern, in which case, you cannot go wrong with strategically placed spot lights.
Certain amongst us are fully aware of the importance of lighting in creating the perfect ambiance, so much so in fact, that an entire commercial industry exists that specifically caters to lighting. From knowing where to place lights, to understanding the strength of the bulbs needed, to being aware of the exact style of shade that can cast the perfect shadows, and many more considerations, there are specialist lighting experts to help. Moreover, such experts will have an in-depth knowledge of current trends, as well as knowledge on how to use light in various other styles regardless of the type property to be decorated a lighting expert can improve the interior decoration of any room exponentially. Whether well-placed chandeliers will make the difference, or standing lamps, these specialists have the answers.
Light has many different effects on a room. Casting shadows at some angles has the effect of making rooms smaller, perfect for a cosy effect, at other angles, rooms appear larger, great for rooms that need to appear larger, such as entrance halls or utility rooms. The atmosphere is changed greatly by the strength of the light, for energy, what the room needs is plenty of bright lighting, but for an informal and relaxed atmosphere, then a slightly subdued form of lighting is best. Simply imagine the difference between the lighting that you would find in a gymnasium, and the lighting that you would find in a cinema to understand the point here.
When choosing lighting then, there are many more considerations to take account of than merely aesthetics. Atmosphere and ambiance are the key to creating the perfect effect in any room and this is done through lighting.
