How to Use Lighting to Change a Room's Ambiance

If you are looking for a way to change the mood of your home's rooms, or perhaps just one of the rooms, then one of the easiest, and often most economical ways is by changing the lighting. For many years decorators and designers have recognized that the right lighting and decorating items can add-or take away from- the ambiance of a space. If you are looking for a way to create a certain mood for the rooms of your home, the suggestions below can take your room(s) from being merely a place to come home to being a place you go to for inspiration, relaxation, romance and fun.

Inspirational Lighting

If you are trying to create a mood that inspires the creative genius within, then consider these lighting upgrades:

• Layer the lighting so that there is plenty of light for all the activities to be enjoyed.
• Lighting for reading, writing, and other hobbies should be set up so that the light shines directly on to the work, but not into the reader's eyes.
• Crisp, white light is energizing and is great for task lighting; warm colors like yellow, orange and red stimulate concentration and creativity while reducing tiredness.
• Use bright ambient lights for task lighting; multi-bulb fixtures to make a room brighter and recessed lighting for countertop light.

Relaxation & Welcoming Lighting

Whether it's just you and the family or when you are entertaining guests, you want everyone to feel relaxed. By making sure that lighting provides an ambiance of peaceful welcoming there are several lighting choices to be included.

• Along the outside walkway, be sure it is well-lit so that the entrance path is clearly lit making people comfortable.
• Inside, layer the lighting choices, using more than one source so that silhouettes are not overpowered.
• Consider ambient lights, recessed lights or track lighting to prevent shadows. These will also draw the eye to the central glow.
• If the room has a fireplace, consider using torchieres or wall sconces to create a warm glow; a working fireplace also adds both physical and emotional warmth.
• An all white décor gives a calming effect and makes a space feel larger than it is.
• Decorative items such as mirrors and frosted glass can add to the lighting choices and have a relaxing affect.

Romance Lighting

To create a quiet romantic getaway, here are few decorating tips:

• Make the ceiling look lower by placing wall sconces lower and using lamps and fixtures with closed tops.
• Dimmer switches are a great way to adjust the lighting to suit any mood
• Don't use overhead lighting as it can cause a harsh glare
• Use multiple lamps with dark shades or warm colors.

Dramatic Lighting

To give a room life and encourage interaction, use the lighting suggestions:

• Use up-lights to spotlight large plats and down-lights on art objects.
• Wall mounted sconces, wall washers or tall floor lamps will focus on architectural detail.

For additional information on the topic of lighting visit The Light House. Article independently authored by Janet M. Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of The Light House. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit Peerless Web Solutions.