Illuminate Your Home: Discover the Power of Ambient Lighting
It's time for a lighting revelation. Chances are, your home needs more lighting, beyond the usual overhead built in solution. Enter ambient lighting, the unsung hero that can completely transform and elevate your space.
Ambient lighting, often overlooked, encompasses any lighting that accentuates your room beyond the typical overhead or built-in fixtures. It goes beyond mere decorative table lamps; think up lighting, under-counter illumination, wall sconces, cove lighting, tape lighting, and spot lighting – lots of possibilities to elevate your home's aesthetic! The key with ambient lighting is that you can’t see the source of light.
But why is ambient lighting a game-changer?
The beauty lies in its ability to play with different planes and levels within your space. This strategic use of light sources adds dimension and shadows, creating a well-designed environment. Let’s use my living room as an example. With just side table lamps, it seems dim and confined. With the introduction of up lights, the space transforms. Visual interest is added to plantings, the overall elevation is enhanced, and even the ceiling height is accentuated, making the room feel more expansive.
So, how can you infuse ambient lighting into any home, whether rented or owned?
The good news is, it's not only affordable but also easy to implement. Take my living room, for instance – the up lights I've incorporated cost a mere $26 for a pack of two. From programable tape lighting for $16 to strategically placed spotlights, the key lies in knowing how to use these lighting elements to your advantage.
To kickstart your journey into ambient lighting, consider these easy methods:
Illuminate the wall behind plantings for captivating shadows.
Highlight sculpture pieces with uplighting to add depth to the space.
Use uplighting for your drapery to create a dramatic effect.
Accentuate artwork with strategically placed spotlights.
Illuminate the wall behind your sofa or lounge chair for added ambiance.
Expand the perception of space by uplighting a blank corner in your bedroom or dining room.
the most important tip
Here's a crucial tip: ensure that the color temperature of your ambient lighting matches the existing lighting in your home. Not sure about the ideal color temperature? I've got a comprehensive breakdown for you HERE
Believe me, mastering the art of lighting is the key to unlocking a well-designed space. Get ready to embark on this illuminating journey!
Thanks for reading!
*Some Images sourced via Pinterest
