Lighting is a must-have in any home. Not only is lighting functional, but it also creates a mood and atmosphere in any room. By using different lighting combinations, the same room can take on a whole new look.
Purchasing lighting is still a mystery to most people. Lighting decisions are usually made very quickly before people analyze all of their lighting needs. Many people are not sure what type of lighting fixtures to purchase for the applications that they have.
Lighting Concepts
To begin understanding all of the lighting options that are available, we should start with the three basic lighting concepts:
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Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting is often referred to as a hidden source of light. This type of light washes a room with a glow and often flattens the interior room, while leaving very little shadow. An example of ambient lighting would be wall sconces.
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Task Lighting
Task lighting is just what its name implies – it is lighting that will be used to perform such daily tasks as reading, cooking, applying makeup, etc. Task lighting should enhance visual clarity and keep your eyes from straining. An example of task lighting is undercounter lights in your kitchen.
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Accent Lighting
Accent lighting is directional lighting or lighting that highlights. Accent lighting involves a bulb and some type of shield. Examples of accent lighting are halogen spotlights and table lamps.
Lighting Options
Listed below are examples of the assortment of lighting options available for any home.
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Recessed Lights
Recessed lights are fixtures that are placed in the ceiling. These lights are very popular for almost every room in the house. Different trims can be used to direct the light.
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Recessed Fan Light
Recessed Fan Light is a single unit from Broan-NuTone that combines a ventilation fan with recessed lighting. The trim design of the fixture matches that of major recessed light manufacturers and allows the unit to blend into your home seamlessly. Often seen in bathrooms, recessed fan lights can also be used in other rooms to keep the air fresh or control humidity.
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Track Lighting
Track lighting is a light or series of lights that is mounted on and movable along an electrified metal track.
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Pendant Lights
A Pendant Light is a fixture that is hanging down or suspended from the ceiling.
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Hanging Fixtures
Hanging fixtures provide excellent down light and ambient lighting.
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Fluorescent Fixtures
Fluorescent fixtures offer even light and are great in areas where lots of light is needed, such as kitchens, laundry rooms, etc.
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Wall Scones
Wall sconces provide soothing indirect light as well as providing dramatic effects on walls.
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Undercabinet Fixtures
Undercabinet fixtures allow you to direct light where a task is being performed such as in a kitchen or home office.
Light Bulbs
In addition to selecting the correct type of fixtures to fully achieve the look that you want to create, you must have the correct light bulbs as well. A large variety of bulbs that can be used for many different lighting options are available.
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Tungsten Blubs
Tungsten bulbs are the ordinary light bulbs that you use in your home. These bulbs give off a slight yellow tinge.
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Spotlight Bulbs
Spotlight bulbs give a focused explosion of white light.
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Halogen Bulbs
Halogen bulbs provide light that is closest to daylight.
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Fluorescent Bulbs
Fluorescent bulbs are also daylight-equivalent, however they provide a flat, cold light.
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Incandescent Bulbs
Incandescent bulbs come in various types, including halogen bulbs and some fluorescent bulbs. This inviting light has a warm quality that is appealing.
Remember that your lighting choices should complement the entire setting of your room. Lighting can be both fashionable and functional – so get creative! If you need more help, take photos of your room(s) to a lighting store or home center. A good salesperson will be able to help you make the best choices for all of your lighting needs.
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