Idiots guide to lighting?

[Saz12]

Can anyone point me in the direction of an idiots guide to getting lighting right? I hear and nod along with “task lighting” and “layered lighting” and “strategic pools of light” bit no idea how to get it right. Some rooms work, others don’t but I can’t really understand why!!

Articles, advice, anything...?

Think about what you do in each room and what kind of light you want for that. Most rooms you would want at least a “bright, everywhere well lit” option and a “low, relaxing” option.

So make sure you have some lights that will light everywhere well - eg ceiling spots or a big pendant - but also some softer lights eg wall lights and/or lamps (5amp sockets wired to the main light switch are great). Have the bright and softer lights on two separate circuits (so you can choose to have either or both on) and have each circuit on a dimmer. Choose dimmable light fittings.

It definitely feels better to have lights at different height levels in a room, so include some table lamps or wall lamps so it’s not all up at ceiling height.

Lights each side of a bathroom mirror is way more flattering than one light above. Wall lamps by your bed will save space on your bedside tables.

If you do use ceiling spots then avoid a grid pattern - they can look good washing a wall (if your plaster is smooth,) or in front of wardrobes.

www.madaboutthehouse.com/august-postcards-a-lighting-checklist/ this is a really useful and non techy guide from Mad About The House (love her writing)