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Making the most of your living room lighting
Good lighting doesn’t necessarily mean having bright lamps. The key lies in choosing the right lamp for each activity and combining them all for a beautifully balanced, well-lit room. Here are the basics of different kinds of lighting, to guide you where to put lights in your living room, so you can get light that feels just right.
Task lighting
The lamp with a mission. Task lighting, or functional lighting, shines a concentrated, direct light over a limited area to help you focus on specific tasks such as studying, working at the computer or reading a book. Just keep in mind that staying concentrated for long periods without getting fatigued also requires good low-intensity light to balance your task lamp and decrease contrast. Like good general light from a pendant or a mood lamp close by.
General lighting
The lamp that sees everything. General lighting provides a uniform light throughout the living space, giving a good overview of the room. It softens contrasts and shadows between lit and unlit spots. Examples are pendants, ceiling lamps and chandeliers.
Mood lighting
The lamp that makes you feel good. Mood lighting softens the contrasts between general and task light to create a cosy, intimate atmosphere. Examples are lamps with a glass or paper shade, picture lighting and decorative lighting strings. A dimmer makes it easy to set a mood.
Integrated lighting
Integrated lighting in cabinets or cupboards is like a having a mix of task lighting and mood lighting. It’s practical for finding things or spotlighting decorative items. It also creates a warm, cosy atmosphere in a room.
Combine them all for a beautiful, well-lit room
The secret to good lighting? Combining all three types of lighting – task, mood and general – in a room. When different types of lighting are used together, they create a well-blended overall light that results in a functional and comfortable atmosphere at home.
Create a tidy look with cordless lamps
No wall sockets nearby? Or do you want to decorate in the centre of the living room? Cordless, battery-operated lamps are wonderful for adding light, minus electricity.
Turn all your lights on and off with one click
Connect lamps wirelessly through smart lighting and you can turn them all on in one click – for an instantly beautiful, well-lit room the moment you enter it. Easy! It’s also great for mood lighting, so you can adjust the intensity of the light.
More lighting ideas across the home
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