Choosing Lamps for Your Home

The three basic principles to follow when choosing interior light fixtures are function, harmony and mood.  With function you need to take into account the main purpose the lighting will have in an area. Functional lighting provides the area with sufficient illumination so tasks can be performed effectively. (This is why functional lighting is also called task lighting.) Harmony is the result of pulling together different lighting elements, adding variety and personality to achieve a cohesive, coordinated look. Harmony can be achieved by mixing lighting fixtures and blending various subdued lights to create drama and ambiance in your space. Mood can be expressed by using a variety of styles that can range from whimsical, romantic, contemporary or even a rustic, country look. All provide function but also set the mood and help complete the decor in a room.

For example, chandeliers or hanging fixtures can create drama and define actively used spaces. They are generally used to provide bright overhead light in rooms with considerable activity, such as kitchens, dining rooms, and play areas.  They can offer the proper illumination that is required for food preparation, dining, or children’s activities.

Floor and table lamps both illuminate an area and set the stage for your interior decor.  They usually offer more subdued lighting that can be used in living rooms, bedrooms, dens, or similar romantic or casual family settings.  If you want to set a certain mood in an area you can use various floor and table lamps to express romance or casual comfort, or even professionalism in a home office setting.

Accent lighting does exactly that - it accents a particular area or item, usually artwork, and adds a touch of drama to a room.  Accent lighting is most commonly seen in decorating as track lighting, or spotlighting that illuminates a display.  It is often not the main source of illumination for a room unless the purpose is to provide a very dramatic focus on particular items or areas.

Lighting isn’t just about simple illumination. Lighting is one of the most important and useful features of your home or professional space. Choose to be different and adventurous in your selections - too much monotony can be boring. By using the design elements of function, harmony, and mood you can create a space that accurately and beautifully expresses your tastes and personality!