Lighting is an element that contributes significantly to the overall comfort, utility, and aesthetic appeal of a home, but which many take for granted. There are many types of lighting options that may be configured in endless patterns, but to get the best results in our homes or offices, we need to understand the difference between two main categories: accent and ambient lighting.
In this post, we’ll explore these two lighting systems, highlighting what they represent, where to implement them, and what makes them essential to any home.
Let’s dive right in.
Accent Lighting
We may define accent lighting as a dynamic interior design tool that it used to highlight certain unique features by creating clear areas of visual interest. Such lighting will draw in the attention of observers to whatever objects or spaces you want them to, thus increasing the dimensions and depth of the room.
The most common examples of accent lighting are what we often find illuminating pieces of art or architecture.
Wall sconces offers us a way to cast a soft glow on the target, which can effectively highlight architectural details or compelling sculptures. Track lights, which are highly versatile and adjustable, are great at placing more closely focused attention on specific points such as a custom bookshelf, an enchanting fireplace, or an inspiring piece of artwork.
What to Consider
Accent lighting isn’t just a functional addition to your space; it can also present you with the opportunity to put your personal style on display to the world. Even so, you need to be mindful about your placement.
You will get the best right by installing these lights with a clear strategy and by choosing the optimal intensity.
Place the lights in such a way that they do not result in glares or shadows. Also ensure that the intensity of the light serves to complement rather than overpower the overall lighting scheme in the space.
Your aim should be to create harmony, whereby the accent lighting enhances certain elements without dominating the room entirely.
Ambient Lighting
General lighting, better referred to as ambient lighting, is what we employ to create the overall mood or tone of a room. This is the fundamental, underpinning illumination that allows us to say that a room is comfortably lit.
Good ambient lighting should fill a room softly, laminating and harsh shadows by providing an even distribution of light.
Chandeliers, LED strips, ceiling fixtures, and more can serve the purpose of providing ambient light. LED strips can deliver an effective, modern ambience that’s suitable for any room. Chandeliers are considered an elegant way of achieving this, which is what makes them popular in living rooms, dining areas, foyers, and so on. Ceiling fixtures are versatile illuminators that efficiently deliver a wide spread of light, making them perfect for any room.
What to Consider
There are certain factors you should consider when contemplating ambient light installation is the balance between artificial and natural light. In the daylight hours, you can complement natural sunlight with softer tones of ambient light to maintain consistent illumination in your space.
With the coming of night, your ambient lighting will take over the work, keeping your rooms comfortable and inviting.
Rooms where relaxation and coziness are crucial, such as bedrooms and living rooms should have warmer tones of ambient lighting.
On the other hand, areas where work-focused tasks will be taking place, such as kitchens, study rooms, offices, and bathrooms should have cooler tones that provide more focused illumination and encourage attentiveness.
In all, strive to achieve a harmony between the colors of your ambient lighting with the interior design color scheme of the rooms in question. Doing this will ensure that there’s no discord between your lighting and the room’s overall theme and its decor.
Final Thoughts
While accent and ambient lighting schemes have their differences, both play a critical role in achieving the perfect home. By carefully considering the factors we’ve mentioned here and picking the appropriate fixtures with care, you can make every space in your home practical, useful, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing.
You will, however, need to have the right lights for the job. Las Sola has decades of experience in the lighting industry, with countless clients worldwide. We’re ready to partner with you as you strive to achieve your vision for your home or office. Place your order today. You won’t regret it!