Lighting has the ability to change the way a room feels and looks. A small, dark bedroom can be turned into a cozy get-away simply by adding proper lighting like lamps, overhead fixtures, and dimmers(NYTimes). Lighting is especially important in real estate, for both buyers and sellers. Poor lighting can make it difficult for buyers to see the potential a house has and that means less offers for sellers.
Why Is Lighting Important?
According to Lights.com, “proper lighting is known to improve mood and energy levels” and can also affect your appetite and circadian rhythms. Natural, bright light in the morning will make you more alert and dimmed, soft light will help your transition into sleep. Lighting has the power to effect mood and energy, and therefore is important to pay attention to when buying and selling.
How Should Lighting Be Used?
There are three types of lighting, “general, which provides basic light for the room; task lighting, which highlights a specific work area; and accent lighting, which can create a focal point in the room”(HGTV). Those three types of lighting should be used throughout your home and with each other to create the perfect lighting plan.
Kitchen
Task lighting is important in the kitchen because you need be able to see when you are cooking. Under cabinet lighting and recessed overhead lighting are great for this(HGTV).
Bathroom
According to the New York Times, you should avoid using a recessed light fixture in your bathroom because “it casts shadows that are not flattering”. A better choice would be wall-mounted sconces that create even illumination.
Room Size
Lighting is a great tool for rooms where space is limited. According to LightLogic, you can create the illusion that a room is larger than it is by placing your light fixtures higher up in the room to draw the eye up as well as using mirrors to reflect existing light,
Bulbs
Lastly, don’t forget that the bulbs you use matter. LED bulbs are versatile and come in a range of colors. According to the New York Times, a good option is “warm white”. Avoid “day light” bulbs as they have a “dreaded warehouse look”.
