[img]818|left|Jessica Brende||no_popup[/img]If there is one element in a room that can completely transform the space (with the flick of a switch), it is the use of lighting.
Light brings a sense of empowerment to a space. It helps showcase your furnishings and artwork, enhances your skin tone and sets the mood. Lighting is, of course, a functional element to a room, but with so many options – it can make the perfect style statement. The following is a brief summary of different lighting options and how to use them within the same space. Remember, with the correct use of lighting you can literally control the amount of energy your space emits.
Natural Light
By far, natural light is the most important source of light used in design. We Californians are some of the most fortunate inhabitants because we have so much sunlight (so much that we have to constantly protect our furnishings from the sun’s powerful rays). Natural light not only is the perfect platform for color, but it also makes a space feel alive and fresh.
A Few Suggestions:
1. Windows should always have the capability to allow the most sunlight possible. Plantation shutters are my nemesis, because they eat up so much of the natural light.
2. Try to eat breakfast in an east-facing window. It allows you to enjoy the morning light.
3. Try to position your seating facing a window, as opposed to having the back to a window.
Overhead Lighting
Recessed Lighting
“A recessed light or downlight is a light fixture that is installed into a hollow opening in a ceiling. When installed it appears to have light shining from a hole in the ceiling, concentrating the light in a downward direction as a broad floodlight or narrow spotlight.”(Wikipedia) Downlights are especially nice to have even light distributed throughout a room.
A Few Suggestions:
1. Any light casting down on your face should be on a dimmer.
2. A correctly placed recessed spotlight over a piece of art at the end of a hallway enhances an otherwise dull area. It could become your favorite wall in the house.
3. Downlight over a workspace (over your cutting board, above a small desk) is perfect to save space and provide the necessary light for your projects.
Hanging Light Fixtures
Decorative hanging fixtures are my favorite types of lighting. Hanging light from the ceiling brings a vertical element to the space. Examples of hanging fixtures are lanterns, chandeliers and drum shades. There are so many great styles and sizes that create the perfect statement.
A Few Suggestions:
1. A modern oversized light fixture over an old fashioned dining table.
2. An antiqued iron chandelier over a sleek modern table.
3. A group of the same small fixtures, hung at different heights over a table.
4. A long hanging fixture in a corner, over a chaise lounge.
5. Two matching hanging fixtures over bedside tables, in place of a table lamp.
Table Lighting
The hunt for the perfect table lamp can be one of my biggest challenges. There are so many to choose from, and it really should be perfect. A table lamp is generally at eye level so you notice it day in and day out. Dressing tables, side tables, console tables should almost always have a light fixture sitting on them.
A Few Suggestions:
1. A pair of skinny metal lamps on opposing sides of a long console table.
2. A large, oversized, brightly colored lamp on a side table at the end of a sofa helps bring in any accent colors and creates a perfect reading spot.
3. I always like to see an entry table lamp as soon as you walk in the front door. It’s an immediate welcoming tool.
Floor Lighting
We sometimes forget the freestanding light fixture. A floor lamp is perfect when you don’t have the space for a side table and table lamp, or when you want to bring light to a dark corner.
A Few Suggestions:
1. Floor lamps are perfect beside a chair for reading, beside a garden stool.
2. I love one over-scaled floor lamp in between two chairs.
3. Articulated floor lamps on top of bedside tables add drama and make perfect reading lamps.
Wall Sconces
Let’s not forget: Walls can exude light as well. Because they are permanently fixed to the wall, wall sconces add a level of architectural style to a space.
A Few Suggestions:
1. Articulated wall sconces on bookcases add immediate charm.
2. Wall sconces flanking windows and artwork create a beautiful vignette.
3. Several wall sconces lining hallways are a great way to add a drama to an otherwise dull space.
4. Wall sconce styles should always match in the same space.
Candles
Candles are, by far, the simplest form of light,and they happen to be ridiculously beautiful. Everyone, everything looks gorgeous in candlelight. If it has been a tough day, there is nothing like lighting candles, playing good music and relaxing with a glass of wine. They simply make you feel better.
A Few Suggestions:
1. Several small votives going down the center of your dining table can be striking. They allow for great, non- intrusive conversation.
2. Several candles at different heights and sizes are perfect on a console table.
3. Remember, always burn your candles when you initially set them out so they don’t look like they haven’t been used.
Overall Lighting Suggestions
Only one over scaled light fixture per room.
All lights should be on a dimmer or have different wattage options.
If you have the chance to add floor plugs in living spaces, it will allow you to have lots of flexibility with your lighting plan.
Favorite Light Fixtures
The hanging paper shades from Tim Clarke Inc. on Main Street in Santa Monica are pieces of heaven!
Christopher Spitzmiller table lamps — expensive but works of art!
Articulated library sconces from Circa Lighting are perfect hanging on bookcases.
The Tolomeo collection from Artimide is perfect task lighting, balancing beauty and function.
Just remember, Let the Light Shine In, and your space will feel alive!
Jessica Brende is the founder of Brende Home, a residential design firm based out of Los Angeles. Her background includes an English degree from USC, an Interior Design degree from The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, and five years designing for Bonesteel Trout Hall. She focuses on a client-driven approach to design, ensuring that each project is truly customized for her clients’ personalities. She believes that a home should be as unique as its inhabitants. She is currently developing Brende Home while learning how to be a mommy to her adorable son, Stefen.
She may be contacted at JessicaBrende@gmail.com
Her website: www.BrendeHome.com
