MAIN TYPES OF LIGHTING FOR LIVING ROOM
- Accent
If you have a particular area in your living room that you would like to highlight like a piece of art, fireplace or some other decorative feature, accent lights are a perfect option. Accent lights are in the form of recessed lights that you can adjust them to spotlight a particular area. This can be installed into the ceiling or under cabinet shelves. The key to having effective accent lighting is to make sure that it is substantially brighter than the lighting in the areas surrounding the highlighted area. Accent lighting is also perfect for setting the tone or mood of a room.
- Ambient
These are often very beautiful lamps, chandeliers or ceiling lights that add warmth to the room and are designed to make a space more inviting. Ambient lighting is also referred to as general or background lighting.
- Decorative
These types of lights have a dual purpose. In addition to illuminating the room, these lights are also decorative features that add character to a room like table lamps and hanging pendants.
- Task
These lights are functional and are perfect when you need to perform a task that requires additional lighting like reading or writing by a desk.
BEST BULBS FOR LIVING ROOM LIGHTS
Bulbs are available in different sizes and shapes that fall under four main categories.
- LED Bulbs
These give off a very bright light but do not emit any heat. One of the great things about LED bulbs is that they are energy efficient and last a long time. Many of the modern bulbs are LED bulbs and come in a variety of colours.
- Incandescent Bulbs
These are the most economical bulbs on the market. They are also the most predominant bulb types in older homes.
- Compact Fluorescent Bulbs
These bulbs do not cost as much as LEDs and last longer than the incandescent bulbs.
- Halogen
Halogen bulbs are energy efficient and are best installed underneath cabinet shelves or used as pendant lights. It’s important to note that they get quite hot and also do not last very long. So placement of these types of bulbs is very important. Avoid placing them close to material that can easily be ruined by heat emitted from these lights.
HOW TO CONTROL LIVING ROOM LIGHTS
Deciding how you would like to control the lights in your living room is something you should think about before you hire an electrician. How you want to turn your lights on and off depends on your preference. You can have your lights controlled remotely using your smartphone or you can have traditional light switches where you turn the lights on and off on the wall.
While traditional light switches are the most affordable option, many homeowners opt for smart phone light controls for convenience. When considering which lighting control you want to incorporate in your home, think about your family‘s lifestyle.
Smart lighting is an excellent option because it allows you to control the lights from the convenience of your phone. Keep in mind that you do need to have an internet signal to be able to use this option. You’ll also need to have smart LED bulbs installed in your home to be able to respond to your smartphone. With this option, you can control the brightness and colour of your lights using your phone and turn them on and off.
Some of the living room lighting options available are marketed as DIY-friendly. By following the manufacturer’s instructions, you can assemble lamps and other movable lighting options. However, we strongly recommend you hire an electrician for more complex lighting options. It’s important that the electrician you hire is qualified and licensed. Not only can an experienced electrician help you with wiring and correctly installing light fixtures, he or she can help you design your lighting floor plan.
Mr. Potlight offers an array or breathtaking living room lighting options that will make your living room pop. We’re happy to help you make the right lighting choice for your home. Contact us today and one of our friendly team members will be happy to assist you.