let there be light!
In this week’s June Journal entry, we’re shining a light on accent, ambient, and task lighting! What’s the difference between the three? Where do you use each one? What are fun fixture options? We’re here to flip a switch on all the answers for you!
lighting 101
Lighting is a main component in any space, whether the source is natural light or artificial light. Take a second to consider a favorite room in your home: is it flooded with sunshine from large windows or a skylight? Does it have cozy lamps or a beautiful main fixture? Perhaps you’re thinking of a few rooms for different reasons – which is not so much a coincidence as you might think!
Designers use accent, ambient, and task lighting to address the different needs of a particular space. The light you might require in a large kitchen to safely see while you prep food may not be required in a relaxing bathroom that features large windows! These different kinds of lighting may be used alone or in various combinations to achieve the perfect lighting for your space.
Another general consideration for all kinds of lighting is the light temperature you’re drawn to: do you prefer a warm, natural look or light that’s blue-toned and, more modern? With all of these considerations in mind, we’ll break the three lighting categories down and discuss the merits of each one!
accent lighting
When you consider accent lighting, think about small focal points in a home! These can include items such as accessories, framed or canvas artwork, antiques, and cherished heirloom china. Accent lighting can draw the eye toward a beautiful piece that might otherwise go unnoticed. For example, a wall-mounted picture light would be the perfect way to highlight an oil painting from your travels abroad! Petite, built-in bookcase lights could brighten up what can often be imposing structures, creating visual interest for unique books or thoughtfully placed accessories. Recessed lighting or track lighting are also ways to introduce accent lighting into a space.
Other than its scale, accent lighting is also distinguished by its intensity. Typically, accent lighting is up to three times as bright as ambient lighting in order to provide a visible contrast – think of accent lighting as, ironically, the main character in a play. Bright and focused, accent lighting is the star of the show!
aesthetically accented
We love the way these brass accent lights contrast with the soft pastel shades in this room! They’re the perfect final touch for these built-ins, which showcase books as well as small accessories!
Design by: @pamfitchdesign
Photo by: @nathanschroderphoto
ambient lighting
Conversely, ambient lighting is relaxing and is meant to have a large-scale, evenly applied lighting. effect. Also known as “general lighting,” ambient lighting is used to brighten up entire rooms, hallways, entryways, and stairways. Some examples of ambient lighting are ceiling-mounted fixtures like chandeliers, large wall sconces, and floor lamps! A modern take on ambient lighting is “cove” lighting, or lighting that’s built into the recesses of a room, usually used with tray ceilings. If ambient lighting had a personality, it would be “go big or go home!”
bright at the big top
This fun kid’s room design features a truly one-of-a-kind ceiling-mounted fixture that carries you straight to the circus! We love the way it maintains the room’s whimsical theme while not forgetting functionality!
Design by: projecth0me
Photo by: snookphotograph
task lighting
Task lighting falls somewhere between accent and ambient lighting. Interior task lighting most often includes table lamps or a small wall sconce mounted above a bed, sink, or desk. As the name implies, task lighting is meant to provide adequate light needed for tasks like reading or washing hands. Task lighting should be bright enough to provide adequate visibility but mellow enough to avoid producing glare. Think of task lighting as the modern day candle!
tangerine task master
This petite fixture provides the perfect task lighting over this writing desk! It’s just bright enough to illuminate the small surface area without competing with the room’s ambient lighting – and is a clever way to carry the warm, sienna shade throughout this space!
Design by: @emilyjunedesigns
Photo by: @kerrykirkphoto
choose confidently!
Now that you’re a lighting scholar, we can get to the fun part – selecting fixtures! With so much selection out there, you’re guaranteed to find the lighting solutions that perfectly meet your design style and functional needs. Some of our favorite lighting go-to’s for clients are from Visual Comfort, Mitzi, and Urban Electric!
While browsing online is fun and convenient, we suggest going to see lighting fixtures in a local showroom to really get a feel for how a fixture will look in-person. You may find that while you love a fixture’s aesthetic look, it may not provide the coverage you’re looking for – or alternatively, too much of it!
Remember, you know yourself and your needs best – so no matter what style you choose, you’re going to come out on top knowing what kinds of lighting to use in your space!