1. EXPLORE WALL WASHING AND LIGHT LAYERING
Multiple sources of ambient lighting can help create a wonderful, layered illumination scheme in a room. Consider a good mix of overhead lights, tables, and floor fixtures. If you want to walk the green path, choose smart light bulbs that are versatile and energy efficient.
2. CHOOSE FIXTURES WITH THE RIGHT LIGHT OUTPUT
'Look to the ceiling lights and lamps, and make sure the bulbs have the maximum light output that is comfortable and functional,' says Jennifer Morris, founder of JMorris Design. 'A shift from 40 to 60 watts can make a big difference.'
3. BRIGHTEN UP ROOMS WITH THIN LED LIGHTS
'Budget in a recessed cove lighting or install a thin LED recessed light around the perimeter of the room to make it better illuminated without overwhelming the space,' says Jennifer.
In this windowless ensuite, a strip of LED lights has been used in the corner of the shower enclosure where the two walls of tile meet. It not only casts a flattering, diffused light when using the shower, but gives a sensation of daylight creeping through a crack in the wall.
4. CHOOSE FIXTURES THAT DON'T DULL YOUR LIGHT
Ensure your room gets unobstructed illumination with bulbs, pendants, and lamps that are in clear glass, or in case of lampshades, in thin, non-printed fabrics. 'Being clever with your choice of materials for the lighting sources is the key to ensuring maximum light, so opt for glass, lighter and translucent fabrics, and mirrored finishes to avoid diffusing any light from the bulb,' says Emma Deterding, founder of Kelling Designs.
5. ADD IN THAT EXTRA LAMP
'Generally when thinking of lighting, it is good to think about layers of light which will create an evenly distributed glow throughout the space making it feel bigger, brighter, and more interesting,' says Kashi Shikunova, director at YAM Studios. 'Consider not only overhead lighting but also vertical lighting like wall lights and ambient accent lighting like table lamps or shelving lighting.'
6. CONSIDER PENDANT DESIGNS THAT LIGHT UP A WHOLE ROOM
'When choosing pendants, avoid using the ones that point up or down, creating shadows that darken a room,' says Kashi. 'Use pendants that give light to the whole room, evenly brightening up the space.'
For a dining room lighting scheme or other a kitchen island, consider adding multiple pendants above the table or the countertop to ensure the space is aptly illuminated. In the hallway, hanging a series of identical fixtures down the length of the space will create a classic look.
7. INSTALL LIGHTS INSIDE SHELVES
Recessed lighting is often used as accent lighting rather than as the sole light source for a room. This is because they are unobtrusive, and marry nicely with clean, contemporary, or minimalist interiors. These lights are not ill-suited to any interior.
8. ADD MIRRORS
We all know how a mirror makes a space look larger, and more open, and adds dimension. But it also helps amplify the light around in the room, depending on where and how you position the mirror.
A key trick is utilizing mirrors to maximize light, whether you position them behind lamps or on the wall to fall in line with your ceiling pendant,' says Emma. 'Not only will this make the room feel bigger, but it’ll reflect light into the room brightening it up massively.'
9. TRY A HIGH GLOSS PAINT
Gloss walls and ceilings have been a hot look in decorating for some time, and it's a trend that appears to have staying power. This paint finish creates a reflective surface and is highly durable. It subtly helps bounce the light around the home and makes spaces seem lively and welcoming.
10. IF YOU'RE RENOVATING, CHOOSE AN OPEN PLAN LAYOUT
If you're building your home or gutting the existing layout, consider an open plan living with connected spaces, so that light and air can flow through the home, without restrictions. Daylight is the most wonderful magnifier of interior spaces. If you can bring more natural light into your home, it will have a great effect on maximizing the sense of space.