Lighting can make your space go from a house to a home, so finding the right lighting is essential for creating ambience and style. With a plethora of options at Ambientco, we are sure to have something for everyone. It can sometimes seem overwhelming looking at all the options and coming to a decision, but we’re here to help.
Back to basics
Understanding the three main types of lights is essential to understand the purpose each light is required for in each room.
Ambient lighting: general room illumination e.g. ceiling fixtures and chandeliers
Task lighting: To aid specific tasks e.g. desk lamps and vanity lights
Accent lighting: Adds depth and dimension to a room e.g. spotlights and track lights
Tailoring each light to each room
Every room serves a different purpose, so it is essential your choice of lighting reflects that. Here’s a guide of what to look out for.
LIVING ROOM
Lighting needs: To create ambience and comfort which creates a versatile and inviting space.
Lighting type requirement: Ambient, task, accent
Suggestions:
- Chandeliers/ceiling fixtures provide ample light whilst adding style and taste to the room
- Floor lamps/table lamps are ideal for brightening corners or side tables. Brightening corners presents an illusion that the room is bigger and more open.
- Wall sconces/tracking lights are perfect for highlighting artwork or architectural features
Our Pick:
Orb 2 Floor Lamp - Square in Circle
KITCHEN
Lighting needs: To create a bright, functional workspace for cooking and preparation, combined with ambience for general use
Lighting type requirement: Task, accent
Suggestions:
- Recessed lighting or flush mounts to provide ample light for visibility, whilst opting for ambience. Dimmable lighting is a great way to get the best of both worlds.
- Pendant lighting is great over kitchen islands or dining areas, creating an intimate yet well lit area.
- Under-cabinet lighting is a great option for illuminating countertops and workspaces whilst being discrete.
Our Pick:
Richmond Pendant, small - Leverint Lighting
BEDROOM
Lighting needs: To create a soft, ambient room for relaxing and comfort, whilst also providing a practical spade to get ready
Lighting type requirement: Task/ambient
Suggestions:
- Ceiling fixtures or chandeliers offer a warm and central light whilst providing a statement piece
- Bedside lamps or wall mounted sconces are great in providing focused light for tasks such as reading
- Dimmer switches allow for multi purpose when you want to wind down and relax in a cosy atmosphere in the evening, but need ample light in the morning when getting ready for the day.
Our Pick:
Echo Two Wall Light - Marc Wood
BATHROOM
Lighting needs: To create a bright, shadow free room whilst creating ambience
Lighting type requirement: Task/ambient
Suggestions:
- Vanity lights to place on either side of the mirror for an even, shadow free illumination
- Over heard fixture to provide a well lit space
- Recessed lighting to create ambience and enhance recesses such as in the shower
Our Pick:
Stadium Wall Light in Brush Brass - Square in Circle
Considering style and decor
Just because something is functional, doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish. Lighting can compliment and enhance your homes décor. Here are a few tips on things to consider when tailoring to your style:
Modern/Contemporary
- Sleek
- Minimalistic
- Clean lines
- Metallic finish
Traditional
- Classic fixtures
- Ornate detail
- E.g. chandeliers and lantern style sconces
Industrial
- Raw, unfinished look
- E.g. exposed bulbs and metal shades
Our Pick:
Caged Ceiling Light 4.0 – Buster & Punch
Scandinavian
- Simple
- Understated
- Natural materials
- E.g. wood/soft hues
Let’s talk bulb type and colour
The bulb type and colour can significantly change the affect and mood of the light.
Types of bulbs:
- LED: Energy efficient and long lasting. They can come in various colours.
- Incandescent: Offer a warm, inviting glow but are less energy efficient.
- Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs): Use less energy than incandescents and have a longer life span.
Colour temperature:
- Warm white (2700k-3000k) – Creates a cosy, inviting atmosphere.
- Ideal for: bedrooms and living rooms
- Cool white (3500k-4100k) – Creates a bright, clean light.
- Ideal for: kitchens and bathrooms
- Daylight (5000k-6500k) – Creates a clear, bright light.
- Ideal for: Reading areas and home offices
Final tips for finding your perfect lighting
Whilst there is a lot to consider when choosing your perfect lighting, its easier to break it down. Ask yourself these questions for each room to help you refine the requirements and practicality, then style will come naturally.
- What area in the room requires extra light or visibility?
- How much natural light does the room get?
- What is the purpose of the light in the room?
- Are there any dark corners that could be lit up to open the space?
- Are there any features youd like to illuminate?
- Are there different levels of lighting I could optimise?
Key tips:
- Layer your lighting: Use a mix of ambient, task and accent lighting to create depth and versatility to each room in your home
- Use dimmers: They allow you to adjust the light intensity to suit different times of day and adjust according to the purpose of use.
- Scale: Ensure your lighting fixtures are proportionate to the room size, and don’t forget to factor in the furniture!
Browse our extensive collections with our high end partnerships to find the perfect lighting for you.
Other blogs to come:
- The impact of lighting on mood and productivity
- Top lighting trends 2024
- How to use lighting to enhance your homes décor
- How to use light to create ambience
- Maintenance tips to keep your lights in good shape
- The benefits of dimmable lights
