MATTERS Engaging a professional and reputable lighting designer can make all the difference to the overall look , feel and function of your space . A lighting designer
01DESIGN
will take into consideration the light colour output and location of lights , and not just the aesthetics of the fitting . Don ’ t be afraid to get advice from a reputable professional who will ensure you achieve exactly the lighting outcome you envisage . If you are worried about costs , some designers will rebate the costs of their services off the products purchased , meaning you aren ’ t out of pocket !
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CONSIDER THE COLOUR OF LIGHT Did you realise that there are warm and cool whites , and different depths ? 3000K or Warm White light will make your room or home feel warm and cosy . On the other hand a 4000K or Cool White is more neutral , and a 5000K or Daylight White could make a space feel rather cold and clinical . Eddie from Lights n Lamps would always recommend 3000K Warm White light in cooler climates for example , so talk to your designer about what light will work best in your space .
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GET CREATIVE WITH PLACEMENT Your light fitting does not always have to be in the middle of the room . A “ cool ” pendant or cluster of pendants in a corner can be a fantastic feature , or consider a couple of downlights to specifically highlight some family photos on a wall “ off centre ”. Thinking outside of the box can create some interesting features in your home .
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DON ’ T FORGET TO LAYER YOUR LIGHTING “ Ceiling Lights or downlights are a great foundation for your lighting plan ,” says Eddie from Lights n Lamps , “ but I like to allow for texture and interest by layering lighting , for example by adding in some wall lighting , or making sure you have power points handy for table and floor lamps .”
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LIGHTING IS ALL ABOUT NIGHT TIME The location and size of windows or skylights really have nothing to do with how much lighting a room needs . Always plan your lighting and determine how much light you need , with the evening in mind .
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CONSIDER KITCHEN ZONE LIGHTING Well planned kitchen lighting involves considering 3 key lighting zones : 1 . Ensure Direct light over key work areas . 2 . L . E . D . Striplighting is ideal for lighting under overhead cupboards and shelves . 3 . Lighting is also required over the ‘ floor area ’ to provide direct light for cupboards and drawers under benches .
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IDEAL MIRROR LIGHTING When designing the lighting in your bathroom , you need to consider how to best light the mirror and consider the direction of the lighting . Eddie recommends having lighting either side of your mirror to eliminate shadows falling on your face . If you have a wide mirror and this is not possible , then consider a linear fluorescent or LED fitting placed over the top of the mirror , which will direct down and out towards you to light your face . Downlights are not recommended for mirror lighting as they create a lot of shadowing , making it hard for applying make up , shaving etc .
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LED DOWNLIGHTS When it comes to LED downlights , Eddie advises against purchasing based on price alone . He says to check the actual light output of the various downlights , as when it comes to LED lighting the lumen output is the measure of brightness , not wattage . You should also consider the colour and quality of the light output , the warranty and whether you will be able to get a matching replacement if one fails .
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LIGHT SWITCH PLACEMENT Take a direct interest in the location of your light switches . Consider how you will move through your home and where you then want to be able to switch your lights on and off . Double switching can be very useful and functional . For example , consider a double switch over your bed to eliminate arguments as to who should get out of bed to turn the light off .
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PLAN YOUR BUDGET When planning your home , renovation etc ., don ’ t leave your lighting as the last thing to consider and the first thing to cut when the budget gets tight . Your home will only look its best at night under the lighting you install or don ’ t install . Make sure you plan ahead and allocate an appropriate budget to get the best result .
To discuss your lighting plan with Eddie or Joel , contact Lights n Lamps on 03 6234 8066 . With a showroom based in Hobart , they can service clients with design and supply of lighting right across Australia .