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Les Inspirations / March 25, 2024

Mood Lighting Essentials: Transforming Spaces from Bright and Harsh to Soft and Inviting

In the ever-evolving landscape of home design, the conversation around lighting is shining brighter than ever. Social media trends have sparked a collective reevaluation of our lighting choices, especially the move away from harsh, overhead "big lights" to the subtler, more intentional practice of mood lighting. But what exactly is the issue with the traditional central light fixture, and how can mood lighting transform your living spaces? Let's delve into these luminous topics.

By Lara Silva

White flower flush ceiling light

£249.00

Hand Pleated Empire Lampshade in Printed Voile

£350.00

Anar Rattan Lampshade

£210.00

Pink 3 light flush ceiling light

£249.00

The Downside of "Big Light"


The central, overhead light fixture—or "big light"—has long been a staple in home design. However, this traditional fixture often produces harsh, glaring light that creates a flat and uninviting ambiance. Without nuance or warmth, it fails to highlight the soul of a room, leaving spaces feeling stark and uninspired. To transform a home from functional to delightful, it’s time to reconsider the role of lighting.


What Exactly is Mood Lighting?


Mood lighting goes beyond basic functionality, sculpting the atmosphere of a room and elevating its design. By strategically placing multiple light sources, mood lighting allows you to adjust the intensity, direction, and color of light, tailoring the ambiance to reflect your personal style. This intentional lighting approach enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home while creating inviting spaces that feel both cozy and modern. Mood lighting is a cornerstone of design inspiration, offering creative ways to showcase your personality through lighting.

How to create the best mood lighting?

Crafting the perfect mood lighting involves balancing task, accent, and ambient lighting. Follow these modern design ideas to achieve a harmonious blend:

Embrace Dimmers

Dimmer switches are essential for mood lighting. They let you fine-tune the intensity of your lights, seamlessly transitioning from bright and functional to soft and relaxing at the turn of a dial.

Layer Your Lighting

Layering is key to achieving depth and character. Combine table lamps, floor lamps, pendant lights, and string lights at varying heights and intensities for a rich, multidimensional effect. For added design inspiration, mix textures such as ceramic bases with fabric or rattan shades to create a cohesive yet dynamic look.

Experiment with Colour Temperatures

Use warm lights (around 2700K) in spaces like living rooms and bedrooms to foster relaxation.

Opt for cooler lights in kitchens and home offices for a refreshing and energizing atmosphere.

Parasol Ceiling Lamp - Black & Nature

£367.03

Egri Table Lamp

£162.60

Luna Half Pendant Shade

£125.00

Brass cone wall light

£99.00

Olive green marble curve floor lamp

£349.00

The Ribbed pendant ceiling light - Houseof x Emma Gurner

£249.00

Charcoal grey tube table lamp

£60.00

Brass bar opal ball wall light

£199.00

Living Rooms

Create an inviting space by positioning floor lamps next to seating areas for focused light that enhances reading or conversation. Use wall sconces to highlight architectural details or artwork, adding depth and personality. For versatility, consider a central fixture with a smart LED bulb, which allows for customizable colours and brightness. Add layered lighting to accentuate textures in upholstery and curtains, enhancing your room's modern design ideas.

Bedrooms

A restful bedroom begins with soft, warm lighting. Place table lamps on nightstands for a soothing glow, ideal for winding down. Enhance the ambiance with LED strip lighting behind the headboard for a modern, gentle backlight. For added style, choose lampshades in complementary colours to your bedding for cohesive design inspiration.

Kitchen and Dining Areas

In the kitchen, use pendant lights to provide task lighting over counters or islands. Add under-cabinet lighting for a practical yet stylish touch. For the dining room, chandeliers or statement pendants set the tone, complemented by candles or string lights for intimate gatherings. Pairing sleek metallic finishes with wood or marble elements can provide a chic, modern contrast.

Antique Pumpkin Lamp

£180.00

Etta Scalloped Pendant Shade

£190.00

Brass opal disk rechargeable table lamp

£119.00

Antique English Ceiling Lamp

£90.00

Mushroom - Black

£206.65

Hunter Desk Lamp

£514.00

Lampe ii Table Lamp

£149.59

The Little Carambole

£259.00

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