The Perfect Setup: That lightbulb moment!
A ceiling light is the best way of achieving all-round illumination (aka ambient lighting), whichever room you are planning lighting for. A little planning will help you find the right ceiling light for each of your spaces – use these tips from Hanna Walter, Creative & Product Manager, to choose the best size and style of lighting for each room in your home.
Find the right ceiling light
You have two main options when it comes to basic styles. Pendants are the most popular option as they’re quick and easy to install, while chandeliers are a more decorative choice and better suited to rooms with high ceilings.
When it comes to the hanging length of your chandelier or pendant, aim for around 215cm from the floor to the base of the light. In addition to this, think about the colour temperature of the bulbs. This is measured in kelvins (K) on a scale from 1,000 to 10,000, with lower numbers being warmer in tone and higher numbers being cooler. Warmer bulbs will create a softer, more relaxing atmosphere so look for kelvin ratings of around 2,700K for ambient lighting.
Dimmer switches are also worth considering so your lighting can serve more than one function. For instance, in the kitchen, the light can be fully illuminated when preparing food and cooking then dimmed to a cosy glow when dining or relaxing. The same goes for the living room and bedroom – a full light is ideal for reading but a dimmed glow is better for unwinding and watching TV.
Andromeda shade Chandelier
Make an instant statement in an open-plan kitchen with this mid-century style design that features antique brass metalwork and adjustable arms. These allow you to configure the light to suit any space and any sized dining table or island by bringing directional task and ambient lighting where you need them.
A warm welcome
Hallways are your home’s first impression so make yours as practical as well as inviting. As well as table lamps or wall lights, a good overhead ceiling light will come in handy when you can’t find your keys. In a long and narrow hall, a trio of ceiling lights spaced every 85cm along looks stunning, and to make a long hallway more impressive, fit a ceiling light at the far end so the eye is drawn along the passage. Larger areas and square entrances need only a single central ceiling light and this is where a statement chandelier can be used to great effect. For smaller spaces, stick with a compact pendant shape and hang it higher up to create an illusion of space.
Lighting designs for dining
Whether it’s in a separate dining room or an open-plan kitchen diner, the dining table should always be the starting point for ambient lighting. Long, rectangular tables suit a light that spreads out, either with a linear chandelier or multiple pendants. Remember the golden rule that odd numbers of lights work better than even. For round or square tables, a single statement chandelier or dramatic cluster pendant will create instant wow factor. Hang the light low enough to cast pools of light but high enough so that it won’t obstruct the view over the table or create a hazard for tall family members and friends. Try to ensure that the bottom of the pendant hangs at least 75cm to 90cm from the tabletop and, if you’re hanging more than one, make sure there’s equal space between each light.
Bathroom bliss
To give your bathroom a five-star luxury hotel feel, consider a striking pendant or chandelier. Just make sure it’s IP44 rated (this means it’s suitable for use in the bathroom as a main overhead light) and that your ceiling is high enough for your light not to dominate the space.
For a bathroom that’s perfect for relaxing in as well as for everyday use, combine a ceiling light with additional light sources such as wall lights either side of the mirror, or an illuminated mirror or cabinet. This way you’ll create a scheme that can adapt to different activities at different times of the day.
Pendant lights for the kitchen
A kitchen island is such a multifunctional piece of furniture – you can use it for food prep, cooking, serving, eating, socialising, working or as a place where children can do homework after school. This means that you need flexible overhead lighting. As well as being ultra-practical, pendants over an island bring a decorative touch to the room and can make an instant impact with their colour, shape and lighting effect. A row of three is often the design of choice as it creates symmetry. Alternatively, look for a linear design that creates an even spread of light. Whatever you choose, fit a dimmer switch so that you can have bright light when cooking or working and a softer glow when dining or entertaining.
Koa Chandelier
This statement chandelier creates an immediate impact in a hallway, on a landing, in a living space or bedroom. Its curved satin brass arms were inspired by a willow tree and create a sculptural look, while the glass shades take their inspiration from dazzling diamonds. Their form is expertly crafted by an artisan glassblower and the earthy tones of beige, brown and white are the perfect blend of classic and contemporary design.
Orla 5 light horizontal pendant
Delicately tapered speckled glass shades are asymmetrically positioned around this pendant’s linear satin brass frame, making it ideal for long, rectangular tables and islands. Casting light along its length, it’s also perfect for parties as the light emitted is a gentle glow, creating instant mood and atmosphere.
Vermeer Pendant
Taking its cue from classic artworks and jewellery design, this satin brass and opal glass sphere pendant is a contemporary statement with a touch of art deco chic. It looks great in living spaces, bedrooms and hallways, and complements all decors.
Celia Chandelier
Ideal for contemporary living and open-plan schemes, this design is a classic interpretation of the modern asymmetric pendant. The geometric conical shades bring balance and calm to a busy home while the wood and fabric design is organic and naturally beautiful.
Discover more: Heathfield & Co
