Methods of LightingAlthough ambient lighting provides a basic level of illumination within a room, it is accent lighting that gives a room depth and brings it alive. There are several methods of lighting that can be used to enhance architectural features and highlight objects of interest within a room, adding interest and drama to a room.Downlighting is the method most frequently used to accent features within a room and usually consists of recessed or ceiling mounted spotlights. When placed correctly they create a gentle downwards focused light without any harsh shadows. When several downlights are directed towards a single wall they will not only highlight its architectural features but will also visually expand the room, making it appear more spacious. There are several techniques with which to do this. Wall washing is particularly suitable for smooth, light coloured walls as it lights the whole wall evenly from ceiling to floor, thus creating a spacious, airy feel usually associated with a larger space. To create even illumination over the whole wall downlights should be placed approximately 3 foot away and 3 foot apart, this is so as to avoid a scalloping effect. Wall grazing is an excellent technique for highlighting texture within a room, whether this be an exposed brick wall or a stone fireplace, the effects can be quite dramatic. As this technique produces its dramatic effect by creating shadows it should not be used on smooth walls as any flaws in the plaster work will be exposed. To create the most striking effects, downlights should be placed between 6 and 9 inches from the wall and spaced approximately 15 inches apart (depending on the size of the wall to be illuminated). When downlights are placed in close proximity to a wall, a scallop effect is produced. Although this can occur accidentally if you are trying to apply the wall washing or grazing techniques, it can be an attractive feature in its own right. It is best to use recessed downlights to highlight features that are unlikely to be moved, such as fireplaces and locations in the kitchen, whereas spotlights are more practical options to illuminate pictures or objects that are likely to be moved. It is important to use downlights in conjunction with other forms of accent lighting so as to avoid creating a harsh environmental feel and to place them correctly so as to avoid glare, both direct and indirect. Uplighting is also a very popular technique and although less common, it is an equally attractive form of accent lighting. Uplights turn the whole ceiling into a light source as they direct light upwards. This not only avoids the glare and shadows that can be associated with downlights making it a more practical lighting solution for use in rooms with televisions and computers, but also produces a more gentle, even form of light. Uplighting is best used in rooms with light ceilings so as to maximise reflection down into the room. Front lighting is often used to highlight interesting objects within a room; however it is not the best method as it reduces contrast and can visually flatten an object or picture. Backlighting is a more flattering method with which to illuminate plants and objects as it creates an intricate pattern of shadow and light, making the edges of the object glow. This method really makes an object stand out from its background. Halogen spotlights aimed at a 30 degree angle are better for illuminating wall mounted paintings and pictures. By using a combination of the above methods in conjunction with considered ambient lighting and focused task lighting, your home should be brought alive with functional yet beautiful, layered lighting. |
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