Bright Ideas for Lighting up Small Spaces

Lighting is a crucial aspect of any room, as it affects the mood, ambiance, and functionality of the space. However, small spaces present their own unique challenges when it comes to lighting design. It is possible, however, to explore different types of lighting and you will find that there are suitable options available for small spaces.

Types of lighting for small spaces

There are three main types of lighting that can be used in any space, however, become even more useful when lighting small spaces. These are ambient, task, and accent lighting.

Ambient is the general, overall lighting of a space. It provides a comfortable level of illumination for moving about and performing everyday tasks. In small spaces, ambient lighting can be achieved through the use of ceiling lights, wall sconces, and other fixtures that provide diffused, even illumination.

Task is lighting that is focused on a specific area or activity. It is meant to provide additional illumination for tasks that require precision or detailed work, such as reading or cooking. In small spaces, it can be achieved through the use of desk lamps, pendant lights, or under-cabinet lighting.

Accent is lighting that is used to highlight specific features or objects in a space. It is meant to draw attention and create visual interest. In small spaces, it can be achieved through the use of spotlights, picture lights, or uplights.

Choosing the right light fixtures for small spaces

There are many different types of light fixtures that can be utilised to make sure you are getting a balanced light plan in a in small space. Each has its own unique features and benefits.

• Pendant lights are lights that hang from the ceiling on a cord or chain. They are a great choice for small spaces because they take up minimal space and can be easily adjusted to focus light on specific areas.

• Track lighting consists of a series of fixtures that are mounted on a track. It is also a perfect example of accent lighting, as it is flexible and customisable with fixtures that can be repositioned along a track, or moved to shine a light where you want it or need it most. This customisable ability makes them a great option for small spaces, as it almost eliminates the need for additional lights.

• Recessed lights are fixtures that are installed into the ceiling, providing a clean and unobtrusive look. Recessed lights are a good choice for small spaces because they provide a lot of light without taking up any floor or wall space. Think recessed downlights, which are perfect for providing an overall general, or ambient light.

• Wall sconces are fixtures that are mounted on the wall and provide both ambient and accent lighting. Wall sconces are perfect for small spaces because they take up minimal space, and provide a subtle ambient light that does not dominate the space.

Enhancing the mood with lighting

Small spaces can feel cosy and inviting, or they can just as easily feel cluttered! One way to add cosiness and ambience to a small space, without adding clutter, is with the right lights. In addition to providing functional illumination, the right lights can also be used to enhance the mood and feel of a space.

LED technology has allowed us to make selections on the colour temperature of our lights. This has allowed us to select temperatures that produce a “cool” light for functional spaces of our home, or a “warm” light in spaces we want to feel cosy and inviting.

Best practices for installation in small space

The installation of lights in small spaces can be crucial to it’s functionality, but also to the feel it creates within the space.

• Placement and spacing of fixtures is crucial for creating balanced and effective lighting in small spaces. It is important to consider the layout and function of the space, in terms of what areas need a little more light, and how well lit these spaces need to be. It’s also important to consider the height and positioning of the fixtures, so as not to crowd the space.

• DIY installation can be a great option in small spaces. Think lamps, strip lights or even simple batten fix shades that are unobtrusive. These types of lighting solutions can also be great on your back pocket for a couple of reasons. First, they don’t require services of a licensed electrician to install, and second, you can move them around whenever you feel like a change or need a little extra light somewhere particular, all without having to outlay for new lights!

Installing the right lights is an essential element of any small space. By choosing the right fixtures and using a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting, you can create a functional and inviting space. With the right approach, you can use lighting to transform any small space into a bright and welcoming place.

If you need assistance selecting the right lights for your small space, trust the experts at Rovert Lighting & Electrical. As the number one supplier of electrical and light solutions in NSW, they know everything there is to know about lights for your small space, or your larger spaces!