How to Choose Lighting: Different Types of Light Fittings
So you’ve finally decided on that big interior make-over. You’ve selected the best floors and wall coverings and decided on various furniture pieces in your favourite style. But how to choose lighting? There are many different types of light fittings, each with their own advantages. To make sure you choose the ones that best complement each other, we’ve listed all of them with directions on how to use them. And of course, with a few fine examples of vintage industrial light fittings to boost. Read on!
Spotlights & Halogen
Type of light fitting: Accent lighting, task lighting
How to use: As accent lighting, aim the light from the ceiling towards an artwork, object or architectural feature that you want to highlight. If they are IP rated you can use them in rooms such as the bathroom for subtle but focused task lighting.
Type of light fitting: General, task or accent lighting
How to use: Wall lights can be used as general lighting, but usually in combination with ceiling lights. Keep in mind that the light from wall lights can be obstructed by large objects such as large cabinets. Also, as general lighting they work best in numbers. As task or accent lighting, they need to be positioned near the object or task and their light spread should be focused.
Type of light fitting: General, task or accent lighting
How to use: Pendant lights direct light downwards, which makes them perfect for either task or general lighting. As general lighting, make sure the light hangs high enough for an optimal spread of light. Alternatively, use multiple pendant lights or a bulb that has a high colour temperature such as an LED light bulb to give off enough light. As task lighting, pendant lights work very well for a wide variety of spaces such as above the dining table, breakfast table, seating area or even bathroom.
Type of light fitting: Task and accent lighting
How to use: As task lighting, desk & table lamps are most commonly used for reading. Depending on their size, they need to be positioned relatively close to the task area. As accent lighting, these lights are perfect to light up dark, dull corners. They can also be used to highlight other objects, similar to spotlights. They often allow for a more diffuse, general light spread which can create a soft look.
Type of light fitting: General and task lighting
How to use: As general lighting, floor lamps can be used almost anywhere. They can bring some more life to corners or other gaps in the lighting design. However, as they can often double as task lighting, it’s a smart move to position them next to reading chairs or tables.
Decorative lights
Type of light fitting: Accent lighting
How to use: As the name suggests, these lights are more decoration than function. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t serve a purpose. Lights such as vintage marquee lights or light boxes really catch the eye and do a lot for an interior’s character. You should see decorative lights as the finishing touches of your lighting plan. Probably the most fun lighting to choose!
We hope these different types of light fittings have helped you with how to choose your lighting. Have you got a good idea of what type you want? Why not continue with the next step and browse various great vintage industrial light fittings!
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