The lighting plays an essential role in the decoration of a house. It helps to create a warm and bright atmosphere in each room, by highlighting the objects and materials that make up your interior. Good lighting should also allow you to carry out various activities with maximum safety and comfort. In this article, we offer you tips for successfully lighting your different rooms.
The basic principles for successful lighting
Before choosing your lighting fixtures, it is essential to know some basic lighting principles:
- Natural light : it should be favored as much as possible, because it brings a feeling of well-being and comfort. Position your furniture and decorative objects to make the most of daylight.
- General lighting : it is used to illuminate an entire room and can be achieved by ceiling lights, wall lights or floor lamps. The power of the bulbs must be adapted to the size of the room.
- Functional lighting : its purpose is to specifically illuminate a space or an object, such as a worktop in a kitchen or a painting on a wall. Recessed spotlights or adjustable lamps are particularly suitable for this type of lighting.
- Ambient lighting : it brings a touch of warmth and personality to your decoration. Table lamps, light garlands or candles are ideal for creating soft, subdued points of light.
Room by room advice
The living room, modular and friendly lighting
In the living room, lighting should promote relaxation and conviviality. Opt for soft, diffused light with floor lamps or wall lights with lampshades. Do not hesitate to multiply the light sources by arranging several lamps to place on furniture or shelves.
To highlight your decorative objects or paintings, opt for adjustable spotlights which allow you to direct the light according to your wishes. Finally, consider installing light dimmers to adapt the light intensity according to your activities (reading, meals with family, evening with friends).
The kitchen, functional and pleasant lighting
The kitchen requires lighting that is both efficient and aesthetic. For the worktop, choose recessed spotlights under wall units or LED strips for direct, shadow-free light. Above the central island, choose designer pendant lights which bring character to your kitchen while providing pleasant lighting for meals.
Finally, don’t forget ambient lighting with lamps to place on the worktop or shelves, and add a few luminous touches using LED garlands to create a warm and friendly atmosphere.
The bedroom, soft and relaxing lighting
In the bedroom, choose subdued and soothing light sources to promote rest and relaxation. Opt for bedside lamps with fabric lampshades to diffuse soft, non-aggressive light.
Add wall sconces or pendant lights above the bed to illuminate your reading or relaxation times. For dressing rooms and cupboards, consider installing LED strips that light up automatically when you open the doors, to facilitate access to your clothes.
The bathroom, secure and adapted lighting
The bathroom requires specific lighting, adapted to humidity and safety constraints. In the area near the shower or bathtub, choose waterproof spots to avoid electrical risks.
For the mirror, choose side lighting such as wall lights or LED strips, which allow you to see yourself without shadows or reflections. Finally, install a ceiling light to evenly illuminate the room and add adjustable spotlights to highlight your decorative elements.
Tips for a bright and warm atmosphere
To create a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere in your interior, do not hesitate to play with the different light sources:
- Mix styles : combine contemporary lighting with vintage or industrial lamps to bring character to your decoration.
- Vary the materials : choose fabric lampshades for a soft, warm light, and metal or glass pendant lights for a touch of elegance and modernity.
- Opt for LED bulbs : they offer a wide range of color temperatures, allowing you to create a warm and friendly atmosphere or, on the contrary, a colder and more modern one, depending on your desires.
By following these tips, you will be able to achieve harmonious lighting adapted to each room in your house, while highlighting your interior decoration.