Your Guide to Perfect Lighting Fixtures for Every Space
May 27, 2024 - Michelle Murphy
Few things are more powerful in interior design than lighting. Good lighting brightens your space, sets the perfect mood, and enhances the overall aesthetic. On the flip side, poor lighting can make even the most beautifully designed room feel weird and clinical (we’re looking at you overhead fluorescents). Growing research even suggests that lighting can impact human well-being.
You’ll need a bit of know-how to find the perfect lighting fixtures that make your home feel just right. You want to understand how different types of lighting fixtures can transform your space and how to choose the right fixtures and sizes for each room.
And lucky you! That’s what today’s blog is all about.
Different Types of Lighting Fixtures
Here are the main types of lighting fixtures you’ll come across and how they can change up your space:
- Ceiling Light Fixtures: Come in lots of different styles like chandeliers, pendant lights, and flush mounts, and are your main source of light in a room.
- Wall Light Fixtures: Great for adding extra light and style and are perfect for tighter spaces like hallways.
- Floor & Table Lamps: Easy to move around and can be used to brighten up darker spots in your home.
- Recessed Lighting: Also known as can lights, these are installed into the ceiling for a clean, streamlined look. Great for places where you need a lot of light but don’t want the fixture to stand out.
- Track Lighting: Multiple lights on a single track, which you can aim wherever you need. Nice for highlighting features in a space or diffusing illumination in specific areas.
Pro Tip: Layer your lighting for the best effect! Combining lighting fixtures creates a versatile and inviting atmosphere to keep your space both functional and stylish.
Choosing the Right Lighting Fixtures for Each Space
Let’s talk about how to choose the right lighting fixtures for every room in your home. Each space has its own needs, and the right fixture can make all the difference.
Bathroom Light Fixtures
Bathrooms need bright, clear light for tasks like shaving and applying makeup. It’s also best to look for fixtures that are moisture-resistant. Vanity lights above or beside the mirror are a great choice too, as are recessed lights for a clean, modern look.
Dining Room Light Fixtures
The dining room needs the right ambiance for meals and gatherings. A chandelier or pendant light above the dining table provides much-needed focused light as well as a visual focal point. Dimmer switches can help you adjust the mood depending on the occasion.
Outdoor Light Fixtures
Outdoor lighting fixtures need to be durable and weather-resistant. Porch lights, wall-mounted fixtures, and landscape lighting are all great options. Keep in mind that they also provide safety and security.
Bedroom Light Fixtures
In the bedroom, you want a mix of ambient and task lighting. Bedside lamps are perfect for reading and ceiling fixtures provide general light. Wall sconces can also add style and save space on your nightstand.
Kitchen Light Fixtures
The kitchen needs a combo of bright task lighting and general illumination. Under-cabinet lights are perfect for countertops and pendant lights work well over an island or dining area. Recessed lights can also provide overall light without cluttering the ceiling.
Living Room Lighting Fixtures
The living room is all about versatility, so you’ll want a mix of lighting options to create different moods. Floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces are great for layering light and accenting specific features, while ceiling fixtures provide illumination throughout.
Need examples of show-stopping lighting fixtures? Check out our South Shore Showhome project!
Selecting the Perfect Lighting Fixture Size
Too large, and they can overwhelm the space. Too small, and they may not provide enough light or impact. Every home is a bit different so take these tips with a grain of salt (unless you hire the professionals…hint hint). Here are some tips on how to get it just right:
- Chandeliers
- A quick trick for finding the right size is: add the length and width of the room (in feet) and convert to inches for diameter. You can use this handy chandelier size calculator to find the best chandelier size for your space.
- Hang 24-36” inches above a dining table or minimum of 7’ feet above the floor if nothing is below it.
- Pendant Lights
- Ideal diameter for kitchen islands depends on the size of your island. Consider where eye level is and make sure the fixtures don’t overpower or block site lines.
- Hang 27-30” inches above surfaces and space 15+ inches apart (equally spaced on an island).
- Flush and Semi-Flush Mounts
- A quick trick for finding the right size is: add the length and width of the room (in feet) and convert to inches for diameter.
- Ensure enough headroom for semi-flush mounts (minimum 7’ to bottom).
- Wall Sconces
- Height: Eye level or just above is a good position.
- Ensure they are proportional to the space and accompanying furniture.
- Floor and Table Lamps
- Floor lamps: 66-78” inches tall.
- Table lamps: 20-30” inches tall. Make sure the bottom of the shade is approx at eye level when seated.
- Recessed Lighting
- A good rule of thumb is to space lights apart the same number of feet as the fixture diameter in inches for even lighting coverage. In most cases 5-6’ is a good distance between each one. And always put them on dimmers, whenever possible!
- Outdoor Fixtures
- Porch lights: around 6’ from the ground/surface below.
- Use multiple fixtures for larger outdoor areas to avoid dark spots.
Learn how to transform your space with eDesign!
Keep Calm & Shine On
Lighting can truly transform your house to make it feel like a warm, inviting, and functional home. Each room in your home has unique lighting needs, so understanding the different types of lighting fixtures can help you make the perfect illumination choice.
Now that you’ve got the knowledge to make your home shine, start planning your lighting upgrades! Consider each room, its purpose, and how the right lighting can enhance it. To give you a head start on where to look, MMID’s favourite lighting stores in Calgary are Signature Lighting and Vivid Concepts (you’re welcome).
And remember, you don’t have to go it alone! If you need help along the way, contact MMID for expert lighting advice or take advantage of our convenient eDesign services.
Want a little more lighting inspiration? Check out MMID’s latest “Mood Board Monday” post on Instagram for a little glow! 💡
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