LIGHTING GUIDE: ROOM-BY-ROOM

KITCHEN

Most kitchens these days tend to be multi-functional spaces, making different types of lighting all the more important.

Start with background lighting to illuminate the whole space well — recessed downlights or adjustable spotlights are good options. Ensure that these lights are positioned so that the worksurfaces will be well lit and that the light will not be blocked out if you are standing working at them.

Next, consider task lighting — it will be required over the hob, over the dining space and can be useful over certain areas of worktop. Extractor fans often incorporate task lighting, while under-unit LEDS also work well.

Accent light, such as LED strips, can work well under base units or within glass-fronted cupboards or shelving.

LIVING ROOM

Your living room lighting scheme should very much be tailored to how you use the space. If it is going to be used throughout the day, by children playing for example, a very different scheme will be required than if you only plan on retreating to it to relax at the end of the day.

In general, a combination of downlights, table and floor lamps and accent lighting such as spotlights within fireplaces, picture lights and concealed cabinet lighting works really well — although some people love the idea of a central pendant that can act as a focal point.

Bear in mind that televisions emit their own light and you don’t want your lighting conflicting with it. ‘Bias lighting’ involves placing lighting behind the TV to avoid glare or eye strain.

BATHROOM

Bathroom lighting requires careful thought in order to be successful.

You need to think about zones and IP ratings. Zones are given to the different areas of a bathroom — so Zone 0 is a wet area, such as inside a shower enclosure. An IP rating indicates how resistant a light fitting is to water and the rating needed will depend on which zone the light will be fitted into.

Recessed downlights are popular in bathrooms, along with task lighting above or around mirrors. Avoid targeted overhead lighting — it's very unflattering!

BEDROOM

Bedrooms really do benefit from plenty of lamps and wall washers — these are the ideal way to create a soft, cosy glow. Ensure these lights are dimmable to allow you maximum control.

Use task lighting around mirrors or over dressing tables and consider highlighting a stylish headboard with accent lighting. You might also consider automatic lighting in the wardrobe.

“Soften high-level fittings, such as a feature pendant, with dimmable indirect options, such as recessed lighting in alcoves so attention is not drawn to the ceiling centre, as this can make the room feel less inviting and not as cosy,” suggests Paul Nulty, founder of Nulty Lighting.