Lighting tends to be an overlooked part of a residential design project. Although it influences the appearance of everything from the kitchen to the bedroom, the types of light fixtures selected are too often an afterthought. As you plan out your home remodeling project, learn about all the style choices you have when creating an interior lighting scheme.
The Most Popular Types of Light Fixtures Today
1) Flush Mounts and Semi-Flush Mounts
Flush mounts and semi-flush mounts are types of light fixtures that are typically found close to the ceiling. They are perfect for hallways, small bedrooms and bathrooms.
Flush Mounts
A flush mount is a lighting fixture that blends into the ceiling. It can be decorative, but it also is effective at providing a higher ceiling clearance.
Semi-Flush Mounts
Semi-flush mounts are typically brighter and often more stylish. The gap between the fixture and the ceiling allows light to reflect from above and below.
2) Recessed Lights
Recessed lighting is installed above the ceiling line. Also known as high hats, these types of light fixtures are popular because they provide more ambient light. Recessed lights are commonly found in kitchens, dining rooms and basements. Also known as can lights, they typically require additional wiring.
3) Sconces
Sconces are another type of wall lighting commonly found in Long Island homes. They can provide a dramatic up-or-down lighting effect. Sconces may be found next to a mirror in a bathroom or illuminating a dining room. Depending on the type you select, it can provide either ambient or focused light.
4) Accent Lighting
Accent lights are a golden opportunity to add style to your home. They can be both decorative and functional additions to a bedroom, living room or other space underserved by the current lighting. These fixtures include table lamps or floor lamps, which can brighten areas of a room with a dash of low light.
5) Pendant Lighting
Pendant lighting is a popular choice for a modern kitchen. It works well above both kitchen islands and dining room tables. A pendant light hangs from the ceiling by a suspension device, such as a chain or rod. They also typically have a casing, such as a globe, shade, drum or cage. A pendant may stand alone or be placed together with others in a group.
6) Task Lighting
Task lighting is another common residential home design choice. It provides a small pop of bright light to a specific area. These types of light fixtures give directional rather than ambient light. Task lighting can work well on desks, kitchen counters and work areas.
7) Chandeliers
In recent years, chandeliers have become a more common design element in Long Island homes. Although technically a form of pendant lighting, they are usually much bigger and grander. A chandelier could be ornate, sleek or even rustic. This classic lighting fixture can add an instant element of style to any foyer, living room, kitchen or dining room.
Lighting a home is about creating a balance between form and function. From flush mounts in the hallway to pendant lighting in the kitchen, light fixtures help to make your house a home.
If you are remodeling, Green Art Plumbing Supply has all the top-of-the-line lighting fixtures available today. We have a wide selection of residential design products on sale in our three Long Island showrooms in Freeport, Huntington Station and Southampton.
Visit us, send us a message, or call (516) 379-0449 to start planning your dream home today!
I totally agree with you when you said that lighting tends to be an overlooked part of a residential design project. My sister wants to remodel her house because she says it looks old. I will share this article with her so she can also have in mind the importance of proper lighting in her house.