Include lighting in planning process for remodeling project
Lighting no longer has to be an aftermarket accessory. By defining integrated lighting possibilities and considerations early in the planning process, your clients are assured of getting the best possible results.
What are your client’s goals? What tasks will be performed? In your planning, remember that cabinetry specifications such as materials, colors, tone, reflectivity, placement and lighting from appliances-plus availability of natural light-will influence LED lighting effects.
For any room or space, you’ll need a clear idea about what the lighting needs to do. Think about how each room will be used and which integrated lighting applications are required or desired. For example:
Under cabinet lighting — Used to illuminate countertops, backsplashes and other work surfaces while reducing shadows caused by overhead lighting. High intensity is best for work surfaces; choose from warm or cool color temperature depending on the cabinet and countertop finishes.
Interior cabinet lighting — The functional advantage of interior cabinet lighting creates more usable space, with great possibilities for display. Accent lighting establishes mood and character by creating drama, excitement, and interest.
Down lighting — Down lighting is effective in a wide range of situations. As accent lighting, it can add a dramatic, ornamental effect. Down lighting shines light into dark spaces beneath shelves or cabinets, and creates a floating effect under vanities.
Drawer lighting — Placing lighting inside drawers illuminates the entire interior and its contents, making the available space more usable, and every item accessible and identifiable. These lights are designed to turn on and off as the drawer is opened and closed.
Wardrobe pole lighting — Ribbon is placed in the pole to create a soft effect across a span of hanging items.
Fixed shelf lighting — Fixed shelf lighting illuminates dark interiors or provides lighting to a set of drawers installed below the fixed shelf.
Light intensity and purpose — High-intensity lighting is used for task lighting and dark surfaces that absorb more light. Mediumintensity lighting is used for drawers and interior cabinet lighting because high-intensity light could overpower the small space. A dimmer can be used with high-intensity lighting to adjust to medium and low light intensities.
Commit to a single color in a room — Choose either warm or cool colors: mixing lighting colors will create an incongruous look. If you choose cool light for a tall cabinet, then choose cool lights in drawers and base cabinets as well. Lighting success
1. Define cabinetry goals with your client. Select the cabinet style, finish, hardware and types of storage/display spaces that best suit their needs.
2. Define lighting goals with your client. Choose areas for task or ambient lighting, and identify cabinet interior spaces that will benefit from lighting.
3. Plan your design and specify the lighting components. Commit your plan to paper as a schematic that includes all essential details.
4. Share your plan with your installer. Before installation begins, review the schematic with your contractor to cover each lighting application. This shares your vision, identifies questions and assures a smooth installation. This article was provided by the GHBA Remodelers Council. For information, contact Lorraine Hart at lorraine@idealconsulting.net. To join the council or to find a professional remodeler in your area, visit www.ghba.org.