Daylight
When planning the location of storage systems, the location of the window is taken into account. Daylight should illuminate the room evenly, so it is not recommended to cover the windows with heavy curtains. Light-colored roller blinds let the sun's rays through, shield the room from strangers, and also protect things from fading. A dressing room can serve not only as a storage area; it is used for ironing, mending clothes, and creating stylish looks. When installing lighting in rooms of different sizes and configurations, combined types of lamps are used to replace natural light.
General (basic) lighting
It should be remembered that too bright lighting can damage things stored in the wardrobe. But there are people who cannot be in darkened rooms, much less look for the things they need there. In this case, you can choose the main lamp in the form of a not too powerful incandescent lamp (often 40W is enough) or a halogen lamp. If there will be other types of lamps in the room (and this is very important for creating coziness and comfort in the storage room), you can install a simple relay on the switch that will turn off the overhead light in cases where one or more auxiliary light sources are turned on.
As for the design of the lampshades, you need to adhere to the general style direction.
Preparation
Before making your own lighting for cabinet doors, the bottom or any other part of the piece of furniture in question, you must:
- select and purchase LED strip;
- select and buy a power supply, controller, wires;
- prepare the tools that will be needed during the work.
Selection of LED strip
The choice should be based on the preliminary determination of the following parameters:
- type of tape. Manufacturers produce:
LED strips with a single-color glow (SMD marking), which can be white, blue, red or green (more rarely you can find different shades, for example, pink purple and so on). The main advantages of single-color options are the relatively low cost and the ability to achieve not only a decorative, but also a functional effect;
Diodes of the same color
multi-color tapes (RGB marking), which are equipped with diodes of three primary colors: red, blue and green. When framing shelves with multi-colored tape, you can achieve the effects of running lights, flickering, alternating switching on, and so on, by analogy with Christmas tree garlands;
Tape with diodes of different colors
LED strips with lights of different colors can be used exclusively as decorative finishing.
- brightness of the tape. The brightness level is influenced by factors such as:
sizes of installed diodes. The most common tape sizes are 3.5x2.8 mm, allowing for brightness of up to 5 lumens, 5.0x5.0 mm (up to 15 lumens) and 5.6x3.0 mm (up to 18 lumens);
Popular diode sizes
number of LEDs per 1 m of strip;
Varieties depending on the number and location of diodes
- class of protection of lighting equipment from moisture:
- to install lighting in a mirrored wardrobe or a wardrobe of a compartment type, located in a room (living room, bedroom, etc.), IP20 type tape, which does not have any protection from moisture, is suitable;
- to equip the bottom or side of a built-in cabinet in a kitchen or bathroom with lighting, you will need an IP43/$44 LED strip equipped with a protective film;
- to equip street furniture with lighting, LED strip type IP 54/55 is used, which has a fairly high level of protection;
- if you plan to make lighting in a pool or sauna, it is recommended to use a tape with maximum protection of type IP67/68.
Varieties according to the level of moisture protection
All technical characteristics are indicated in the markings applied to the surface of the product and packaging.
Explanation of markings
Selection of additional equipment
To equip a cabinet with LED strip, you will additionally need:
power supply unit, the power of which is determined by the formula M (power) = Ml (power of 1 m of tape) * D (its length) * 1.25 (safety factor);
The voltage of the power supply must correspond to the same parameter of the tape.
Electric power supply device
controller (the device is required exclusively for connecting multi-color LED strips). When choosing a controller, you only need to consider the control principle and the number of operating modes.
Operating mode control device
wires for connecting all devices.
Additionally, the lighting system can be equipped with:
- sensor-switch, which can be operated from the control panel, when approaching or touching, at a certain time, and so on:
- a dimmer that allows you to smoothly reduce the light level.
Preparing tools
To install cabinet lighting yourself, you will need:
- drill;
- screwdriver;
- scissors;
- soldering iron or special clips for connecting wires.
Docking connectors
Daylight
If possible, you need to provide natural lighting in the dressing room; this is the best solution that provides natural color rendition and does not require additional costs. It is not always possible to make a window, especially if you are organizing a wardrobe in a city apartment or separating part of an existing room.
Ideally, the window should be located in the middle so that natural light is distributed evenly throughout the space. You should not place cabinets or shelves next to the opening, as this reduces the illumination. If the room is located on the sunny side, it is better to put blinds on the window to regulate the light intensity.
The presence of a window is a big plus for a dressing room.
How to make lighting in a wardrobe: photos, videos, recommendations
A wardrobe is a place where things should be stored. Here you can put warm clothes, shoes, T-shirts and other unnecessary things that are not worn during a certain period of time. However, when organizing their wardrobe, many people forget that they also need to have the right lighting. With it, you can quickly find things and feel comfortable there. In this article we will tell you how to make lighting in your wardrobe, look at the main options with photos and show you some great examples.
How to make lighting in a wardrobe
As a rule, many people don’t even think about the fact that organizing a wardrobe is very simple. You can even do it in an apartment by highlighting part of the hallway or storage room, the main condition is the presence of 4 square meters. Of course, you won’t find such space in a one-room apartment, but if you have two or more, why not try making a wardrobe?
Please note that before organizing a dressing room, you must clearly think through the lighting and arrangement of shelves. You can do this in your head, and then turn all your thoughts into reality.
What types of lighting can be
Initially, you should decide what kind of lighting you want to see in the dressing room. We will tell you some basic options that will allow you to make something special.
Chandelier
The best option is to install a chandelier. In order not to make a mistake when choosing it, we recommend reading the article: what chandeliers are in fashion 2022 there, you will find many interesting options. During installation, you must remember that the chandelier must be located strictly in the middle of the room.
Spotlights
The second interesting lighting option in the dressing room is to install spotlights. They are considered the optimal solution. With the help of spotlights you can achieve excellent illumination of the entire room. Plus, you can make interior lighting when only a certain area is illuminated.
Shelf lighting
If you want to do something special, then you can illuminate the shelves with LED strip; all this will not be difficult, but we are sure that the result will surprise you. Of course, you won’t be able to create full lighting, but you will add something special to your interior this way.
Recommendations for dressing room lighting
- Use only economical lighting fixtures.
- Don't try to make the color too bright, it should be natural.
- If the room is small, then there is no point in hanging a chandelier.
- You need to think about lighting at the initial stage, when the cabinets are installed; this is extremely difficult.
- You can also illuminate the mirror, but this is only if your wardrobe occupies a large area.
We also found a video for you that will allow you to create lighting in your wardrobe without much effort. With the help of this video you will be able to understand the principle and basic rules that should be followed.
Choosing a location for installing cabinet lighting
Depending on the installation location of the lighting devices, the result obtained will differ.
But the type of dressing room or kitchen furniture is also important to consider. Depending on the installation location, cabinet lighting can be divided into external and internal lighting, depending on the installation location of the devices. The external one is implemented using spotlights built into the structural elements of the cabinet (canopy over the door, open wooden, glass shelves, etc.)
The external one is realized with the help of spotlights built into the structural elements of the cabinet (canopy over the door, open wooden, glass shelves, etc.).
External lighting with soffits
With the same success, you can install LED strips on the outer surface of the cabinet, under it, above the top cover. But they should be hidden well, since an open arrangement of LED lighting in a wardrobe can spoil the aesthetics of the furniture or completely overshadow its design.
External lighting with LED strip
Another option for external lighting for a cabinet is to highlight the contours of the pattern on the glass doors.
It is more convenient to perform internal lighting using LED strip or spotlights.
Their installation location can be selected based on the following principles:
Under the top in the center of the cabinet - used for trellis sections, above hangers and in other designs with volumetric space.
On the front edge of the shelves - suitable for multi-level sections of a chipboard cabinet, where the light from the source will be distributed onto the contents of the shelves, built-in cabinet, located flush with the wall.
On the rear upper edge of the shelves is an excellent solution for kitchen cabinets that are small in depth, as this solution will visually increase the amount of space in them.
On the side walls of the closet, lighting is equally suitable for illuminating shelves and for the wardrobe department. Visually increases the height of the structure.
In each specific case, the installation location is selected individually, and it is important to ensure that the doors open freely. If you are going to illuminate a sliding wardrobe, then its doors should not hit the lamps, wires or switch. After you have decided on the location of the backlight, you need to prepare all the tools and materials for the work
Once you have decided on the location of the backlight, you need to prepare all the tools and materials for the work.
Subtleties of wardrobe lighting
Sliding wardrobes have become an excellent alternative to dressing rooms; their functionality and small size allow them to be installed even in small spaces.
To quickly search and visually expand the space, different lighting options are used:
- Spotlights can be recessed or surface-mounted - halogen or LED. They vary in shape - round, square, tubular. Halogen lamps have increased light output and distribute light evenly. Used for external lighting of wardrobes, creating a cozy atmosphere. It is not recommended to install inside a wardrobe; they are fire hazardous lighting sources.
- Fluorescent lamps are rarely used to illuminate furniture. Despite their high efficiency, they have low impact resistance and are quite large for installation. In closets, hanger rods are used for lighting. When choosing, take into account the presence of a protective screen, as well as a switch sensor that is triggered by contact. Tubular fluorescent lamps are installed inside retractable systems. The uniform distribution of light does not dazzle the eyes, it is possible to choose different color schemes.
- The LED strip is installed along the end of the cabinet, visually expanding the boundaries of the room. Internal contour lighting is also used or individual shelves are illuminated zonally. The advantages include ease of installation and does not limit configuration options.
See also
How to choose the best garden swing, TOP rating of 10 models
Preparation
Before making your own lighting for cabinet doors, the bottom or any other part of the piece of furniture in question, you must:
- select and purchase LED strip;
- select and buy a power supply, controller, wires;
- prepare the tools that will be needed during the work.
Selection of LED strip
The choice should be based on the preliminary determination of the following parameters:
- type of tape. Manufacturers produce:
LED strips with a single-color glow (SMD marking), which can be white, blue, red or green (more rarely you can find different shades, for example, pink purple and so on). The main advantages of single-color options are the relatively low cost and the ability to achieve not only a decorative, but also a functional effect;
Diodes of the same color
multi-color tapes (RGB marking), which are equipped with diodes of three primary colors: red, blue and green. When framing shelves with multi-colored tape, you can achieve the effects of running lights, flickering, alternating switching on, and so on, by analogy with Christmas tree garlands;
Tape with diodes of different colors
LED strips with lights of different colors can be used exclusively as decorative finishing.
- brightness of the tape. The brightness level is influenced by factors such as:
sizes of installed diodes. The most common tape sizes are 3.5x2.8 mm, allowing for brightness of up to 5 lumens, 5.0x5.0 mm (up to 15 lumens) and 5.6x3.0 mm (up to 18 lumens);
Popular diode sizes
number of LEDs per 1 m of strip;
Varieties depending on the number and location of diodes
- class of protection of lighting equipment from moisture:
- to install lighting in a mirrored wardrobe or a wardrobe of a compartment type, located in a room (living room, bedroom, etc.), IP20 type tape, which does not have any protection from moisture, is suitable;
- to equip the bottom or side of a built-in cabinet in a kitchen or bathroom with lighting, you will need an IP43/$44 LED strip equipped with a protective film;
- to equip street furniture with lighting, LED strip type IP 54/55 is used, which has a fairly high level of protection;
- if you plan to make lighting in a pool or sauna, it is recommended to use a tape with maximum protection of type IP67/68.
Varieties according to the level of moisture protection
All technical characteristics are indicated in the markings applied to the surface of the product and packaging.
Explanation of markings
Selection of additional equipment
To equip a cabinet with LED strip, you will additionally need:
power supply unit, the power of which is determined by the formula M (power) = Ml (power of 1 m of tape) * D (its length) * 1.25 (safety factor);
The voltage of the power supply must correspond to the same parameter of the tape.
Electric power supply device
controller (the device is required exclusively for connecting multi-color LED strips). When choosing a controller, you only need to consider the control principle and the number of operating modes.
Operating mode control device
wires for connecting all devices.
Additionally, the lighting system can be equipped with:
- sensor-switch, which can be operated from the control panel, when approaching or touching, at a certain time, and so on:
- a dimmer that allows you to smoothly reduce the light level.
Preparing tools
To install cabinet lighting yourself, you will need:
- drill;
- screwdriver;
- scissors;
- soldering iron or special clips for connecting wires.
Docking connectors
Installation step by step
After all the preparations, you can begin installing the lighting. We will analyze cases with individual spotlights and LED strips separately, since each type of lighting has its own characteristics. If you purchased a ready-made lighting system, for example NORFFLI, installation is carried out according to the instructions included with the product.
Installation of individual spotlights
The entire installation consists of the following steps:
- Carefully drill holes at the installation points. To avoid damaging the chipboard, advance the crown slowly and without jerking. Before doing this, fix the center with a drill.
- Mount the switch on the cabinet as high as is comfortable for you. If there are children in the house, it is necessary to place the switch at a height inaccessible to them.
- Strip about 1 - 2 cm of the cable on both sides to connect the equipment.
- The wires must be inserted into the terminal blocks of each lamp, as well as the switch, and then secure them. You also need to connect a converter if you have a step-down power supply. If there are no pads, you can solder the wires with a soldering iron.
- The next step is to turn off the mains voltage and connect the lighting to the apartment circuit.
- Insulate all connections. Upon completion of work, make sure that the cable is intact around the perimeter.
- Check the functionality of the lighting equipment.
LED strip installation
The tape is much easier to install.
However, installation is not carried out in one stage. If you want to integrate an LED strip into a cabinet, here is a step-by-step action plan:
- Cut the piece of tape to the length you need (there are special marks on the strip for this).
- A plastic strip is needed under the tape. You can attach it by gluing it to liquid nails or double-sided tape.
- Drill a hole in the cabinet wall for the cable.
- From the input, route the wires to the location where the tape is installed. For this purpose, it is best to choose a corner of the cabinet. Install cable ducts that will hide the wire.
- Stick the LED strip on, then connect it to the cables and switch.
How to illuminate the floor
This lighting system should be placed in a separate category. It can be part of complex lighting, be local or have a decorative function. In the latter version, floor lighting is used when decorating the podium.
Downlights have several advantages:
- Doesn't irritate eyes. Especially while watching TV.
- The soft twilight pouring from under the floor relaxes and evokes an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility.
And yet, each lighting fixture is selected for the type of interior. When placing lamps, you need to take into account the purpose of the room and its color. Soft, yellow light will look out of place in a bright room.
Filling: rules and tips
How to arrange a dressing room? It is possible to equip the dressing room with stationary shelves with drawers or modular systems. Be sure to consider a number of additional storage items (trouser racks, tie racks, shoe racks).
- The modular construction system includes multifunctional aluminum profile systems and mesh baskets, and is equipped with a wide selection of accessories. System elements can stand on the floor, be attached to a wall, or be supported by spacers. The main idea is that the system configuration can be easily changed, the necessary elements can be added or unnecessary ones removed.
- Stationary furniture - storage systems, most often made of natural wood. The main advantages are attractive appearance and environmental friendliness.
Advantages and disadvantages of wardrobe lighting
The main advantage of using additional lighting in a wardrobe is considered to be not only the creation of a comfortable environment, but also the originality of interior decoration. If you use these small light bulbs wisely, you can realize any design ideas and make your room simply unique.
Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting the additional energy consumption. Although this problem can be easily fixed by using LEDs. They are economical and have a low radiation dose.
Natural light in the dressing room
When planning a dressing room, consider the location of the window - it is always good when there is natural light. Daylight is evenly distributed throughout the room, so in a storage room if there is a window opening, it is not recommended to curtain it.
In the best case, order light-colored roller shutters; they do not block the passage of sunlight, at the same time they will close the room from prying eyes and protect things from fading.
Lighting in a storage room can be combined or consist entirely of artificial sources. If this room is also used as an ironing room, a clothing repair shop, or a fitting room, then individual areas can be emphasized with the help of lighting elements.
Variability of light
The light in all rooms should be variable. Solutions that adjust the light environment in the room in accordance with natural human biorhythms are gaining great popularity in this matter.
It's no secret that our eyes were formed in natural light - sunlight.
The sun changes its color temperature over a fairly wide range. In the morning, afternoon and evening, a completely different light emanates from it.
At home, we can also simulate the change in color temperature over time so that it matches our natural biorhythms. This lighting system increases performance, makes you feel better, and reduces eye fatigue.
This system is very simple and you can create a light environment in your room with a slight movement of your hand:
cold
or warm
In addition, this process can be automated. It is enough to link LED sources to light sensors and a timer, and the system itself will change the color temperature at the right time.
Features of dressing room lighting
A dressing room is a room equipped with a system for storing things. Often a mirror, sofa or ottoman is installed in the dressing room. The functions of the room expand, it becomes a small boudoir, a convenient place for choosing outfits. You need to think about lighting the dressing room at the design stage. In most cases, the room does not have windows, so the choice of lamps is very important.
If the shelving is located along one wall, the most suitable lighting option is wall lamps, evenly installed on the free side of the dressing room. Ceiling lighting is also often used for wardrobes. It is better to use lamps adjacent to the ceiling rather than pendant chandeliers. For corner dressing rooms, lamps on clothespins are installed, which allow you to change the angle of inclination.
The light in the dressing room should be as close to natural light as possible. You need to make sure that the lighting does not produce color distortions. The light should be bright. It is recommended to use additional built-in lighting for shelves or cabinets. Lamps can be integrated into drawers or use special brackets. If you install a system for automatically turning on the light when the closet doors are opened, this will increase the comfort of the dressing room.
When choosing lamps, many people prefer economical options. Omnilux lamps are a good combination of price and quality. The Chinese brand Omnilux appeared on the market not long ago, but has already won its fans. A wide range of products from this brand allows you to choose lamps for the proper organization of lighting in the dressing room.
All lamps in the room must correspond to the same style. The total power of the lighting fixtures should provide bright illumination of the natural color spectrum. Depending on individual preferences, the light can be diffused or directed. It doesn't matter
It is important that the light is not dim. Choosing clothes in poor lighting is unlikely to bring pleasure
It is not recommended to use halogen lamps in close proximity to things; they can quickly heat up to very high temperatures.
For those who prefer classic models, Italian lamps Reccagni Angelo are suitable. The collections of this brand reflect the desire for exquisite luxury. Italian designers actively use frosted glass to produce lampshades. The lamps are distinguished by airiness and sophistication. A rich and varied collection allows you to choose lighting for an aristocratic dressing room. In addition to strict classics, the company's designers have developed lamps using floral motifs.
They can harmoniously fit into a romantic women's dressing room. Strict classic models are suitable for an elegant men's dressing room. Reccagni Angelo produces products for wealthy clients. High quality products are achieved by using proven technologies, limited edition models, relevance of design solutions and high quality materials. The price is also influenced by the brand of the factory, known and respected in many countries around the world.
In addition to the lighting function, lamps in the dressing room serve to create style and allow you to divide the space into zones. Lighting plays an important role in the overall perception of a room. The choice of lamps is an important point in decorating a dressing room.
Wardrobe ergonomics
Various effective methods of using a combination of various furniture components and various storage modules allow one to achieve very high results in the ergonomic layout of various types of wardrobe rooms. Wardrobe rooms created on the basis of sliding systems help to use all niches, making them an integral part of your storage space. In such niches you can place a pantograph, and place shoe racks in the lower part. In such niches you can also make a utility compartment and place, perhaps, an ironing board, a vacuum cleaner, etc.
Middle zone
This is the most frequently used dressing area. The contents in this area are mainly: rods, shelves, various drawers for things.
Barbells
can be placed in the dressing room either parallel or perpendicular to the wall, depending on the depth of storage. These are classic clothes rails or “trombones”.
Shelves and drawers.
They should be placed preferably at eye level. Various drawers with transparent fronts and mesh baskets are very functional.
Advice:
Do not store things on hooks, this will cause them to lose their shape.
When using a dressing room, it is important to see the contents of its open shelves and all drawers. These are the main recommendations that must be taken into account when planning its filling.
Upper zone
To access things that are located in the uppermost area of your wardrobes, you need to have stairs in your wardrobes. It is indispensable in hard-to-reach places and will help you get to the most remote corner.
Just below you should provide places for storing hats. It is necessary to provide a height of shelves for hats of at least 20 cm, with a depth of about 25 cm. For rarely used items, in this area of the dressing room you can place various drawers for linen and small items that are very rarely used. Sometimes shelves are also installed in the upper zone for storing off-season shoes, which, after preparation, are placed for the next season.
Daylight
When planning the location of storage systems, the location of the window is taken into account. Daylight should illuminate the room evenly, so it is not recommended to cover the windows with heavy curtains. Light-colored roller blinds let the sun's rays through, shield the room from strangers, and also protect things from fading. A dressing room can serve not only as a storage area; it is used for ironing, mending clothes, and creating stylish looks. When installing lighting in rooms of different sizes and configurations, combined types of lamps are used to replace natural light.
How to position the light?
Experts recommend considering the lighting of the dressing room already at the design stage of such a room. Here are some tips from designers:
- think over everything regarding lighting before installing storage racks;
- give preference to natural lighting, it’s good when it can be made central, be aware that colored illumination distorts the shades of things;
- Large chandeliers are inappropriate in small dressing rooms - this is an option for large spaces, so in a small storage room, give preference to compact sources and place them pointwise;
- in dressing rooms of a non-standard type (for example, corner ones), it is better to use mobile lamps with a mechanism for regulating the light flux.
Well, the most modern and economical option is power sensors. They will automatically light up your room when you enter it. They will not work unless necessary.
Useful tips
Designers recommend taking into account the features of the room at the design stage. Professional techniques improve the functional purpose of the dressing room:
- lighting is thought out before installing cabinets and storage systems;
- the central light is close to natural, colored lighting distorts the shades of things;
- Compact sources are preferred; massive designer chandeliers are used in spacious dressing rooms as decoration;
- for non-standard corner dressing rooms, it is better to choose mobile lamps on clothespins that regulate the direction of the light flow;
- Comfort will be provided by power sensors that respond to movement.
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Varieties of types of lamps
Lighting devices create a comfortable atmosphere; it is difficult to determine which light source is the main one and which is the secondary one. The zonal principle of light division involves the use of combined lighting.
Varieties of fountains in the country and step-by-step instructions for making them yourself
Halogen
Halogen lamps are chosen for dressing rooms due to their variety of design and functional qualities. Provide uniform distribution of light flux. It can be mounted not only in the ceiling, creating a plasterboard structure, but also in the canopy of a cabinet.
When choosing, take into account the disadvantages of halogen lamps - short service life, low strength, and are damaged by voltage surges. They should not be placed in cabinets or shelves - the high degree of heating makes them unsafe when used in closed structures.
LED
Lamps are high-tech devices, they are economical and have a long service life. They are used to decorate the interior of a room, as well as to illuminate closed storage systems. They are a source of directional flow, there is no effect of soft, diffused light. The main advantages are safety and energy saving.
Luminescent
Available in 2 types - compact and linear (tubular). Used for ceiling lighting, tubular ones can be installed to illuminate mirrors. The lamps do not heat up, have high luminous efficiency and a long service life. Insufficient strength against mechanical shocks, as well as connection difficulties, are the main disadvantages of fluorescent lamps.
LED Strip Light
It is a flexible board, the LEDs are placed at the same distance from each other. It is easy to install and highly reliable. The tape is installed on the ceiling or inside modular structures. Color solutions further zone the space.
Artificial lighting options
In the dressing room, designers recommend installing analogs of daylight that do not cause irritation with brightness and intensity. The room needs to be well lit, but the light should not blind, it is important to feel comfortable.
See also
Rules for decorating and designing a living room in gray, creating bright accents
Ceiling
The most popular type of lighting for a dressing room, regardless of its size and configuration. There are several options for placing light sources on the ceiling:
- For large rooms, it is suitable to install lamps around the entire perimeter. They make it easy to find things in the far corner of a closet or shelf. Popular spotlights will help bring any idea to life.
- For small dressing rooms it is better to use LED strip, as well as LED spotlights. Allows for maximum natural lighting. They can be located evenly around the entire perimeter of the room or highlight individual areas - shelving, mirrors.
- Hanging chandeliers are the prerogative of large rooms with high ceilings. Used to style a room in a classical or baroque style. For central lighting, soft, dim light is recommended, preferably combining different sources.
- Hangers and brackets are used for modern style wardrobes. Relevant for non-standard and small dressing rooms. The directional light source is easy to independently adjust, illuminating the desired area.
Shelf lighting
Thanks to additional lighting, it is possible to visually expand the space. Local lighting of shelves and racks will allow you to quickly find the things you need:
- Halogen spotlights are installed above shelves or on cabinet ledges. They get very hot and should not come into contact with clothing or other things. Not the best type of lamps for illuminating closed storage systems.
- A more functional solution is the use of overhead lighting fixtures. You can choose any suitable design with adjustable light direction. Available in halogen and fluorescent lamps.
- LEDs are the most economical lighting option. Available in various colors, they can be used to highlight certain categories of things. They help you quickly navigate among numerous shelves. You can zone racks with shoes and clothes, choosing a different color for each category. The low heating temperature does not damage the coating; the compact dimensions of the lamps allow you to choose any installation configuration.
Mirror lighting
When designing a dressing room, the design of mirrors with lamps is also taken into account. The room is used not only for storing things, but also for searching for successful images and then trying them on. Light sources can be located around the perimeter or above the mirror surface. Bright, diffuse lighting is used.
If the dressing room has a window, it is recommended to place the mirror opposite it. The reception allows you to increase space and reduce energy consumption during the day. Installing a mirror opposite the window will provide a soft, uniform flow that does not distort the actual shades.
Illumination standards or how much light a person needs
Quite often a person feels psychologically a lack of sunlight, especially in regions where the lack of sun is significant due to natural conditions. Artificial lighting is designed to fill this gap to normal. The concept of a norm in this case is vague, but it has been scientifically proven that a person must be in light, even if artificial, for approximately 9-10 hours a day.
Calculations of the norm of natural lighting are measured in lux units, for example, in sunny weather the measurements are 100,000 Lux, and indoors, even near a window it will be a little more than 100 Lux, which immediately indicates insufficiency for plants and humans.
Types of lighting and its regulation depend on the type of premises. The calculation method, its sanitary standards range from 150-200Lx for common rooms, such as the kitchen, living room, bathroom.
For corridors, hallways, bedrooms or balconies the norm will be below 100Lx. But work areas in the kitchen, at the desk, and for reading should be additionally equipped with artificial light lamps.
It is believed that non-residential premises such as offices, gyms and manufacturing workshops maintain artificial lighting at a level of 200 to 300 lux to encourage people to be active.
Artificial lighting.
If there are windows
If there is a window in the dressing room, there will be fewer problems with fresh ventilation. If the windows are not airtight, natural inflow is usually sufficient. But, if there are plastic windows, access to fresh air can only be ensured through ventilation. In this case, it is ideal if there is a micro-ventilation function. By providing a small air flow for some time, you can maintain a normal atmosphere.
With the micro-ventilation function there are no problems with the flow of fresh air
If plastic windows have only standard modes, just below the window sill, on the side of the window or in any other place on the wall, you can build in valves for air flow from the street. These valves are usually adjustable and can allow air to flow at different rates.
Air supply valves
Depending on the manufacturer, the inside may be round (as in the picture on the left) or rectangular (in the picture on the right). Their structure is approximately the same. - filter, insulation, external and internal grilles. A very convenient thing not only for fresh ventilation of the dressing room, but also for all other rooms whose walls face the street.
Is a fan needed?
As has already been said, the natural ventilation of the dressing room does not always provide sufficient air movement speed and a musty smell still appears. This usually happens in the summer, when it is too hot outside and natural air movement is minimal or the draft generally reverses (air masses move in the opposite direction). In such cases, fans are installed on the exhaust openings. Their power is selected depending on the volume, but as a rule, the lowest power ones are sufficient - 10-50 cubic meters per hour. In this case, the main selection criterion is quiet operation. After all, many dressing rooms open onto bedrooms or other living spaces.
Fans may vary. You can even use computer coolers
Many people find it intimidating to install fans—they have to run almost 24/7. In general, not necessarily. It is quite enough if it turns on for a minute every hour. This mode is provided by timers, controllers and other similar devices. All that is required is to select the operating mode and set the appropriate settings.
Yes, this is an additional expense, but the forced ventilation of the dressing room works constantly and does not depend on the vagaries of the weather.
General principles of decorative lighting for a country house and apartment
Home improvement involves the need to take into account all the components of the room so that the owners can feel as comfortable as possible in it.
Therefore, planning the interior decoration of the house, in particular, the color of the wallpaper and the arrangement of furniture, is important in conjunction with lighting. It is logical to assume that dark walls in the office will require more light than white ones, and spotlights will be needed above the corner sofa and coffee table in the living room: one chandelier in the center of the room will clearly not be enough. And these are just a few examples of why it is important to plan the color scenario of a room or other room in advance.
According to experts, when deciding the issue of lighting a country house or apartment, it is important to remember the following principles:
And these are just a few examples of why it is important to plan the color scenario of a room or other room in advance. According to experts, when deciding the issue of lighting a country house or apartment, it is important to remember the following principles:
- Residential lighting consists of three parts: general, working and decorative light sources.
- General lighting includes a chandelier located in the center of the room, which provides diffused light.
- Working lighting allows you to zone the space, for example, to highlight the cooking and eating area in the kitchen. Such light sources are directional.
- Decorative lighting serves more for beauty; it can be used to emphasize any component of the interior, in particular, to decorate a niche with vases and figurines.
- Lighting can also be divided into tiers - into the upper (chandeliers and spots), the first middle (floor lamps and sconces), the second middle (bedside lamps) and the bottom (floor and staircase lighting).
It is important to think through all these points to the smallest detail even at the stage of developing a design project for a room in order to emphasize its volume and depth, highlighting your chosen finishing elements and interior items in a favorable light
Evacuation type of lighting
Evacuation lighting of routes along which people are evacuated is provided in places:
- passages, corridors and at their intersections;
- differences in floor and ceiling heights;
- on stairs and landings;
- at stands with fire extinguishing equipment and evacuation plans;
- exits from buildings;
- at warning and communication means;
- paths leading to first aid medical stations.
It should be noted that in rooms with an area of 60 m2 or more, anti-panic lighting lamps are additionally installed. This ensures safe access to escape routes and prevents people from panicking.
Lighting of educational institutions
- This includes classrooms, auditoriums, study rooms, school laboratories - 500 Lx.
- Classrooms, auditoriums, study rooms, laboratories for general schools, secondary specialized and vocational institutions - 400 Lk.
- Auditoriums, classrooms, laboratories of technical schools and higher institutions - 400 Lx.
- Informatics and computing technology classrooms – 400 Lx.
- Cabinets for drawing technical drawings and drawing – 500 Lx.
- Laboratories in classrooms – 400 Lx.
- Workshops for metal and wood processing – 300 Lux.
- Gym – 200 Lx.
- Indoor pools – 150 Lx.
- Assembly hall, cinema auditoriums – 200 Lx.
- Stage of the assembly hall – 300 Lux.
- Offices and teaching rooms – 300 Lx.
Preschools
- For receptions – 200 Lux.
- Locker rooms – 300 Lx.
- Gaming – 400 Lx.
- Rooms for music and gymnastics – 400 Lx.
- Sleeping – 100 Lux.
- Isolated rooms for sick children – 200 Lx.
- Medical offices – 300 Lx.
Selecting the installation location and type of switch
The light in the closet should ensure ease of use of the furniture and good visibility of shelves and compartments. According to SNiP, in dressing rooms it is necessary to ensure a lighting level of 50-75 lux. Regulatory documents also recommend the use of reduced voltage equipment to ensure safety and eliminate the risk of electric shock.
When using a standard voltage of 220 V, an RCD must be installed in the system, which will cut off the power supply if the insulation is damaged
It is also important to ensure reliable contact of connections; it is recommended to make them either using terminals or soldering, followed by insulation and placement in a heat-shrinkable tube
Installation location
There are several options for installing the backlight, so you need to think in advance and determine which one is suitable:
- Built-in lights in the canopy or top ledge of a wardrobe. This option allows you to illuminate the space in front of the closet to look in the mirror when getting dressed. They are usually located outside, so they can be turned on even with the doors closed.
- Instead of spotlights on the outer ledge, you can attach an LED strip across the entire width of the facade or choose a narrow and long diode lamp. In designs with large widths, there may be two or three lamps. Such solutions provide even, diffused light; the main thing is to choose an option with suitable brightness.
- On the top there is a compartment with a rod where outerwear, suits and dresses are hung. Here it is also worth using LED equipment. It can be placed either along the outer edge or offset inward if the depth of the compartment is large and it needs to be illuminated evenly.
- Along the bottom of the shelves. In this case, an LED strip is used, which is glued along the edge and illuminates the compartment located below. If the shelves are deep enough, the strip can be moved to illuminate the entire space evenly.
- In the rear upper part of the shelves and compartments. This technique allows you to give the compartments volume and fill them with light. Often used in compartments with dishes, books or on open and glass shelves. Often has a decorative rather than practical function.
- On the side walls of cabinets. This method works well if the compartment is wide or the section with the rod is deep. You can use both lamps and tape, select the length and power depending on the volume of space.
Switch type
There are many types, both traditional and new, which are distinguished by their convenience. You can choose one of the following solutions:
- Cord switch - you just need to pull the installed chain to turn on the lighting. Switching off is done in the same way.
- The push-button version is a hanging cable with a module, like floor lamps or night lamps. The button is pressed in one direction when turned on, and in the opposite direction when turned off.
- A key switch is the simplest and most common solution, which can be either overhead or built-in. Due to the size, there are problems with choosing a location.
- Limit switches are placed in an inconspicuous place; when the sash is closed, the circuit is open and the light does not come on. And when the door starts to move, the spring in the mechanical device straightens and closes the contacts. The system is simple, takes up little space and lasts a long time. Over time, the spring may weaken and the light will stop turning on; in this case, the entire assembly must be replaced, since it is not removable.
- Touch devices are a convenient solution that works by touch, or when the hand approaches the sensor closer than 6 cm, it all depends on the model and quality of workmanship. A reliable system, but you need to choose high-quality sensors, since cheap ones often fail or work incorrectly.
- Motion sensors are another popular option; they are triggered when a door opens or someone approaches the cabinet. Most often they are installed at the top or bottom from the inside; they are small in size and do not interfere with the use of the cabinet. The devices are easy to install and connect.
How to make lighting in a closet
To organize the interior lighting of the cabinet, Steinel lamps with a built-in motion sensor are used. Choose models equipped with an ultrasonic sensor that turns on the lighting when the door is opened, and not when a person is nearby.
Experts advise that when connecting the backlight yourself, decide in advance on the installation diagram. You can connect the cable under voltage - in this case, the motion sensor will simultaneously act as a switch. But in most cases, when it is necessary to make lighting in a cabinet, the power cable is not routed out in advance, and there is no opportunity to install the lamp in the right place. Cabinet owners often face this problem.
You can route the electrical cable in two ways:
- Open - along the ceiling and wall.
- Closed - using a special cable channel.
How to install lighting in a closet in a closed way:
- measure and cut the cable channel to the required length;
- secure its base to the ceiling with screws.
- place the cable in the cover and close it;
- Connect the cabinet lighting to the electrical cable by connecting the white wire (phase) and the blue wire (zero) in series. Work should be carried out when the power is turned off;
- Next, you need to install lamps in the lamp and turn on the current supply to check its operation;
- If the backlight is connected correctly, then you can install a light-diffusing lamp.
Decoration
The small space of the dressing room does not make it possible to fully use the decorative elements of a particular style, therefore the owner or decorator of such a room is significantly constrained in their choice, and even more so in their placement. Regardless of the style, preference should be given to small objects that have a stationary mount and small volume.
The decorative function in the dressing room can be performed by:
- Elegant handles;
- Decorative carvings on cabinet doors;
- Colored backlight;
- Colored boxes;
- Decorative finishing of niches, including paintings, mosaics.
Photo frames are not suitable for this room; decorative figurines, curtains, and lamps are used very limitedly.
It is important that they are miniature and do not interfere with the storage and use of things
To ensure silence
If you install regular grilles on both opposite walls in the dressing room, noise will penetrate through them. Clothing and space will muffle them somewhat, but some sounds will be audible. If this prospect doesn’t scare you, great. But if you want silence, special bypass grilles or valves are installed in the holes.
Special valves for soundproofing ventilation openings
They almost do not obstruct the passage of air, but do not allow light or noise to pass through. These grilles are not cheap, but there is no other way to ensure that the ventilation of the dressing room is effective and does not allow sound to pass through.
Preparation
Before making your own lighting for cabinet doors, the bottom or any other part of the piece of furniture in question, you must:
- select and purchase LED strip;
- select and buy a power supply, controller, wires;
- prepare the tools that will be needed during the work.
Selection of LED strip
The choice should be based on the preliminary determination of the following parameters:
- type of tape. Manufacturers produce:
LED strips with a single-color glow (SMD marking), which can be white, blue, red or green (more rarely you can find different shades, for example, pink purple and so on). The main advantages of single-color options are the relatively low cost and the ability to achieve not only a decorative, but also a functional effect;
Diodes of the same color
multi-color tapes (RGB marking), which are equipped with diodes of three primary colors: red, blue and green. When framing shelves with multi-colored tape, you can achieve the effects of running lights, flickering, alternating switching on, and so on, by analogy with Christmas tree garlands;
Tape with diodes of different colors
LED strips with lights of different colors can be used exclusively as decorative finishing.
- brightness of the tape. The brightness level is influenced by factors such as:
sizes of installed diodes. The most common tape sizes are 3.5x2.8 mm, allowing for brightness of up to 5 lumens, 5.0x5.0 mm (up to 15 lumens) and 5.6x3.0 mm (up to 18 lumens);
Popular diode sizes
number of LEDs per 1 m of strip;
Varieties depending on the number and location of diodes
- class of protection of lighting equipment from moisture:
- to install lighting in a mirrored wardrobe or a wardrobe of a compartment type, located in a room (living room, bedroom, etc.), IP20 type tape, which does not have any protection from moisture, is suitable;
- to equip the bottom or side of a built-in cabinet in a kitchen or bathroom with lighting, you will need an IP43/$44 LED strip equipped with a protective film;
- to equip street furniture with lighting, LED strip type IP 54/55 is used, which has a fairly high level of protection;
- if you plan to make lighting in a pool or sauna, it is recommended to use a tape with maximum protection of type IP67/68.
Varieties according to the level of moisture protection
All technical characteristics are indicated in the markings applied to the surface of the product and packaging.
Explanation of markings
Selection of additional equipment
To equip a cabinet with LED strip, you will additionally need:
power supply unit, the power of which is determined by the formula M (power) = Ml (power of 1 m of tape) * D (its length) * 1.25 (safety factor);
The voltage of the power supply must correspond to the same parameter of the tape.
Electric power supply device
controller (the device is required exclusively for connecting multi-color LED strips). When choosing a controller, you only need to consider the control principle and the number of operating modes.
Operating mode control device
wires for connecting all devices.
Additionally, the lighting system can be equipped with:
- sensor-switch, which can be operated from the control panel, when approaching or touching, at a certain time, and so on:
- a dimmer that allows you to smoothly reduce the light level.
Preparing tools
To install cabinet lighting yourself, you will need:
- drill;
- screwdriver;
- scissors;
- soldering iron or special clips for connecting wires.
Docking connectors
Conclusion
Thus, it is clear that improper lighting poses a significant threat to the health of workers. Proper organization of lighting in the workplace is the key to health, high labor productivity, and a comfortable emotional and psychological state of a person. Proper organization of lighting involves not only compliance with regulatory requirements for the level of illumination and a number of other indicators, but also taking into account a number of qualitative indicators - light saturation, uniformity and homogeneity of lighting, shadow formation, color gamut of the lighting environment, etc.
How to make a dressing room out of a closet with your own hands?
A new dressing room is a great transformation that will not only change the room, but will make home life more comfortable! To turn a pantry into a practical warehouse for things, you need not only to determine the arrangement of shelving, but you should also take care of high-quality repairs in the mini-room:
- Clear your closet of dust and debris that has accumulated over the years.
- Carefully level the walls on which you can install the profile and other fittings. Uneven surfaces create the feeling of an abandoned room.
- The ceiling must also be well repaired to provide quality lighting. For spotlights, it is advisable to install a plasterboard ceiling.