Types of Light

First thing’s first, there are two main types of lighting which ever yone could do with knowing a little more about—natural light and artificial light.

1. Natural light

Sunlight is the most natural light source there is. It’s mentally stimulating and absolutely free. But it’s also difficult to control. Light will differ wherever you live—for example, light in the north is much cooler than equatorial sunlight—and the direction your room is facing. The time of day and seasons also affect the amount of natural light a room has. Window coverings are helpful in controlling natural light. For rooms with little natural light, interior designer Sara Cosgrove suggests that “sheers and windowtreatments are the most effective ways for controlling natural light, along with the use of mirrors.” Mirrored furniture also works well and offers storage space too. For rooms flooded with natural light, this can be controlled by the use of lined drapes in thicker fabrics. There is also the issue of glare which has to be addressed—a room which is too bright can look flat and cold. Including an alterable window treatment (like slat, venetian, louver or roman blinds) or plantation shutters are helpful in controlling sunlight and preventing glare without disrupting the aesthetic of your window. om busti on li ght are extrem ely atm ospheri c sources of natural light and shouldn’t be forg otten. See how the seati ng area of this recepti on area is made even more i nvi ti ng wi th the addi ti on of a roari ng fire. Statuesque tapers placed i n el egant candlesti cks or can del abra are beauti ful when placed on ei ther end of a mantl epiece or a form al di ni ng table. For a m ore casual l ook, hurri canes or l anterns are an easy way to enjoy the warm gl ow of candl elig ht indoors or outdoors.

2. Artificial light

Artificial lighting should be used to add layers to your space. A warm light (opposed to a clear light) is the most welcoming option for residential spaces. As well as adding to the overall interior design style of a space, artificial lighting can be used to highlight feature s, create zones and alter the perceived proportions of a room. Always bear in mind the five lighting categories (below) when planning your lighting scheme. Think about where you need what, how you plan to use your space and use a range of lighting effects to create the desired look.