Interior lighting - types of modern lighting

Features of modern lighting in the interior

Modern lighting in the interior can be of two types:

Natural. This includes the light that enters the room through the windows. This is daylight created by the sun or moon.
Artificial. These are all the light sources that are located inside the house. Their placement allows you to properly decorate the interior and make life more comfortable in the physical and psychological sense.

Undoubtedly, a natural light source is more preferable, but it is inconsistent. Sunlight contains vitamin D, which is beneficial for the bones of children and adults, antibiotics and disinfectants. There are even sanitary standards, according to which it is recommended to provide free access to sunlight into the room for 2 hours every day.

There is no doubt about the real role of natural light in the interior. But due to its inconsistency, it is impossible to provide lighting in the room only with the help of sunlight. That is why every house or apartment needs artificial appliances.

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Methods of lighting in the apartment

Thanks to modern technologies and the development of design trends, a wide variety of types of lighting in the interior are presented for arrangement. So, you can choose the following varieties:

Bright system - chandeliers, spots in sufficient quantity.
Subdued light for an evening or romantic setting - sconces, medium-power lamps, floor lamps, hidden lighting, small amounts of spots.
A system with an accent design for zoning or highlighting any interior item - directional light.
Festive system with decorative elements, LED strips, garlands.

It looks good to use not just one lamp, but an entire system. This way you can create all four types of modern lighting at the same time.

Note! Each device requires a separate switch. Modern design requires their maximum camouflage, and a large number of controls can disrupt the overall composition.

When carrying out renovations or construction, before decorating the interior, it is important to think through and place the wiring.

What types of light sources are there?

In a house or apartment, you can equip the main or additional type of artificial lighting in the interior. The main one is usually the brightest and is placed in the center of the room to create the necessary illumination. A chandelier is used for this. Additional types include local systems placed around the perimeter of the room or in specific locations.

To create a comfortable image, it is worth using both sources, since it is not always necessary to turn on the main system. For example, a floor lamp is enough to read a book or watch a movie.

Follow three main rules

When you start preparing a design project for apartment lighting, first of all remember three rules. There are three types of lighting: basic, directional and decorative. The first includes chandeliers or spotlights, the second includes sconces, table lamps, spots, and the third includes lighting for niches, furniture and individual areas. So, in order for the interior to be harmonious, it is important to use all three types of lighting in each room.

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Types of lamps

To furnish your home, you can choose the following types of interior lighting:

chandelier;
lamps with hanging mechanism;
systems with an overhead mechanism for general lighting;
spot lighting with overhead mechanism;
spots;
track lighting in the interior;
sconce;
floor lamp;
table lamps;
lighting for decoration or creating a festive atmosphere.

The choice of type should be based on the general appearance of the room and the needs of the residents. You should not chase fashion trends, as they are not always convenient.

Don't forget the bathroom

In the bathroom, light is often neglected, thinking that two light bulbs on the ceiling are enough. But even in this case, one must remember the rule of three types of lighting and take into account all human needs. To make the bathroom cozy, you will need lighting for the mirror and, possibly, the furniture. More light - more comfort!

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What to choose for the main lighting in the living room?

Interior lighting scenarios can be completely varied and depend on the features of the layout, interior and customer preferences. The types of lighting systems with their features are discussed in detail above. But some types of devices require more detailed analysis for proper use. Let's look at these types in more detail.

Chandelier

A chandelier is a type of hanging lighting system that minimizes the formation of shadows. Such equipment is the most effective and bright, therefore it is used in almost every home and room. The role of lighting in the interior is quite high, since it is with its help that most of the light is created.

The chandelier is located in the very center of the ceiling. The emphasis is placed on it as the most interesting accessory. Particular attention is paid to the chandelier when placing it in the living room. In this case, you should choose a sophisticated and aesthetic option that will emphasize the elegance of the interior. You can place a chandelier, for example, in the center of a sitting area or between a fireplace and a sofa.

A significant disadvantage of a chandelier is that it represents a central object around which furniture is installed. Therefore, not everything can be arranged the way you want.

The chandelier can be used in almost any interior. It looks most luxurious in a classic style with crystal elements, gilding and decorations. For modern styles, it is better to choose elongated horizontal or vertical minimalist options.

Spot lighting (spots)

Spot lighting is a small luminaire whose light is directed in a certain direction. Light spreads uniformly at any angle or radius.

Modern lighting in most cases in the interior is presented in the built-in type. They are called spots. Their peculiarity is that their use can be basic or accent. The second option is more common since you won't need to install too many lights.

The luminous flux is supplied with a small radius from 30 to 150 degrees. The choice of option depends on the purpose of the lamp. For example, for spot lighting of any interior item, 40-60 degrees is suitable.

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Wall lamps (sconces) – which ones and why?

Wall lamps are additional light sources that are installed on the wall. These devices are mounted overhead type.

The presentation of lighting in the interior allows us to highlight the following types of overhead sconces:

horn-shaped - the most common;
surface - used for narrow rooms or stairs;
linear lighting of a painting or photograph in the interior;
stationary - the light does not change, but is at a constant intensity;
with the ability to adjust the intensity of the light flux;
with a reflective effect – a soft light is created that is reflected when turned on;
with the light directed in any direction.

The choice of system depends on the location and interior features.

Note! It is recommended to choose a lamp with the ability to adjust the light output.

Minimalistic forms

Interior fashion 2022 is distinguished by its plasticity, obeying the main trend - individualization of space. And where there is individualization, there is a free choice of shapes, sizes, shades and materials. Choose what you like: a vintage chandelier with crystal pendants, a wicker lampshade, strict classics, futuristic design, minimalism.

The only things that have finally gone out of fashion are the pointedly industrial lamps in the form of water pipes and lanterns, and the “spider” chandeliers, which could be found in every third design project in 2017.

How to choose a chandelier for the bedroom?

Lighting in the bedroom is not the easiest task. There are many requirements for it: it must be bright and not at the same time, beautiful and at the same time not interfere with relaxation. It would seem that there are so many mutually exclusive provisions, but we will tell you how to choose a chandelier for your bedroom and satisfy all your desires.

No matter how freely fashion behaves, if you follow the fashionable collections of lamps 2022, you will notice that trends are shifting towards clean, laconic forms. Simple geometric shapes, a minimum of decorative details, matte, glass and metal surfaces are in fashion.

Minimalistic low-hanging lamps, cluster lamps and traditional shapes that come from classic interior styles look trendy, for example: the laconic geometry of Art Deco, which is again in trend in 2022.

Kitchen and dining group

Many people are interested in the question of what is the role and purpose of lighting in various rooms. The kitchen and dining room should also be equipped with a lighting system. This is necessary for comfort and aesthetic harmony.

If you plan to install lamps directly above the surface of the tabletop, then their height should be approximately 60 centimeters. This replacement of artificial lighting is very convenient, as it creates maximum comfort for cooking.

For small rooms it is worth using point systems, as chandeliers can overload the interior. Elegant lamps made of natural wood or metal are perfect for the kitchen.

The relationship between the organization of living space and its lighting

There is certainly an emotional connection and relationship between the design of the lighting fixture and the interior. Therefore, when planning a space, you need to think not only about the functionality of the room, but also about the influence of lighting on people’s perception of it. After all, it is light that allows you to change the perception of the interior.

Unfortunately, most often the functionality of lighting is put at the forefront, with the only requirement being that “the lamp shines brightly.” And designers, including with the help of decorative lighting fixtures, are able to form a general image of the interior, bring mood to it and create a comfortable environment.

It is worth trying to combine decor with functionality. There is one old tradition - the whole family gathers at one table. Therefore, there must be a chandelier in the center of the dining room, living room or kitchen. In addition, additional zone lighting is also necessary. If we talk, for example, about the American system, then they have adopted zonal lighting with numerous sources of local light. This allows you to highlight one or another zone separately and save energy, but does not contribute to family unification.

For us, it is more important that there is a spiritual atmosphere, and therefore chandeliers and ceiling lamps will never be replaced by general technical light, since a chandelier is an independent element of interior decor, a bright accent, sometimes an art object, but always one of the symbols of home comfort.

What can you experiment with?

It’s not enough to understand the role and purpose of artificial lighting in the interior; it’s important to create a truly unique and interesting option. Everyone has long been tired of the usual images of the room, so it’s worth choosing something new.

The most unfortunate aspect of any lamp is the wire. Many home owners cannot decide how to hide it correctly so as not to spoil the interior. An excellent option is to use a textile cover or a thin LED strip that decorates the wire. Loft lighting fixtures in the interior will look great with open wiring.

Selection of LED lamps for the interior

There is a simple formula for calculating the power of LED lamps, equivalent to the power of incandescent lamps: the power consumption indicator is multiplied by 8-11 (depending on the energy efficiency value of the lamp as a whole). That is, a 6 W LED source approximately shines like a 60 W incandescent lamp: 6 W x 10 = 60 W. But you also need to take into account the luminous flux (it is indicated in lumens). This is the indicator that affects the final illumination in the room. Different LED lamps with the same power consumption produce different luminous flux. In order not to be mistaken about what it will be like for a particular lamp, you need to pay attention to the value in lumens.

Bedroom lighting

A bedroom is a place where a person relaxes after a hard day at work. That is why lighting devices must have a system for regulating the light flux.

It is worth moving away from the chandelier, as it emits too much light, which can be annoying. It is worth choosing sconces, spots and other spotlights.

If you decide to choose a floor lamp, then its height should be around 1 meter from the floor.

When using several lamps, it is better to place them near the headboard. It is important that you can turn off the light while lying on the bed without any problems.

Light in the nursery

Linear lighting does not bypass the children's room. This is not just a room, but a whole world in which a child plays games, sleeps and makes his fantasies come true. That is why lighting fixtures must match his tastes and age.

You should not install a system that is too complex, which will be difficult for your child to cope with. Choose standard simple switches at the baby's height level.

You should definitely install a floor lamp or sconce near the bed, as kids may be afraid of the dark, and the ability to quickly and easily turn on the light will calm them down.

Shower and toilet

The role of lighting in the interior is especially evident in rooms where sunlight often does not reach. For lighting you should use spots, sconces or a small chandelier.

If there is a mirror in the room, then it can also be equipped with additional lighting sources. For example, you can use LED strip or spots with low power.

In addition to the mirror, you can use lighting for the rack, bathtub and other objects on which you would like to focus. White or light yellow lighting in the interior looks especially relevant; it adds elegance and luxury to natural materials such as stone, wood or metal.

Since the devices are placed in a room with a high level of humidity, it is important to take this factor into account. It is worth insulating the wires as much as possible and choosing moisture-resistant materials to avoid problems.

Lighting design rules

To avoid mistakes when organizing space lighting, you need to consider several rules.

Planning basic, task and decorative lighting

General lighting consists of ceiling lights that provide uniform and diffused light. Most often these are chandeliers with different bulbs, lampshades and shades made of fabric or glass. In no case should a lamp on the ceiling cast shadows or reflections - this will ruin the whole atmosphere and irritate the eyes.

If you choose a large chandelier as the main lighting, the light will be different in some parts of the room, but still without shock

In the work area, it is better to install lamps that provide directional light: floor lamps, sconces or table lamps. This lighting should be brighter than the main one. In the kitchen, the work area is the dining table and food preparation area. In addition, the place for reading books, the head of the bed, the place for homework or children's entertainment needs special lighting.

The level of illumination of the workplace should provide an optimal balance that does not tire the eyes

Only when the main and task lighting is conveniently equipped can you think about decorative lamps.

Selection of characteristics

The choice of lamps depends primarily on the lamp itself, the expected frequency of its use and functionality in the apartment. The light bulb in the device solves almost everything. In some situations, only classic incandescent lamps are suitable, while in others LED lamps are needed.

Incandescent lamps are the cheapest, LED lamps are the most expensive

The higher the temperature of the light bulb in degrees Kelvin, the cooler the light it emits. For a bedroom, up to 3000 (incandescent lamps) is enough, for a workplace - up to 5000. Lamps above 5500K are already used in offices. It is not recommended to use cold light in the dining area or near mirrors.

Calculations

No designer will bring a project to life without correct calculations. And this is not a question about finances at all. It is necessary to predict whether all devices will work in one room. There will be unpleasant situations.

Planning your lighting helps you avoid common mistakes that can ruin your interior design idea.

To implement this stage, it is recommended to contact specialists, since not all designers do this themselves.

Where can I find lamps?

An important question is where to buy lamps that match the role and purpose of all lighting in the interior of the house. You can find a suitable option in various online stores.

carries out installation work of any complexity to arrange a lighting system for your home, apartment, office or any other premises. Here you can study the presentation of lighting in the interior with various types of devices.

Lamps are purchased from trusted manufacturers with whom we have been cooperating for a long time.

If you want to choose devices yourself, we recommend that you rely on the following selection features:

compliance with the style of the house;
functionality;
ease of use;
compliance with the owner’s needs, etc.

As a result, you should get truly ideal devices that will fully meet all your needs.

There are no problems with choice now, since there are a huge number of online stores and manufacturing companies that provide a wide selection of equipment for any style.