Interior and exterior lighting design is a critical element as it can transform living spaces into an enticing and dynamic environment. Often we rely on overhead lighting alone, but creative use of lighting can add texture and patterns while enhancing the furnishings, finishes, and materials of a room. With properties in the BVI, exterior spaces are just as important as interior spaces and lighting can affect how the outdoors is used both during the day and for nighttime activities.
“The BVI climate can be very harsh on building materials. The salt air, heat, sunlight, and wildlife can provide a challenge when selecting light fixtures. Solid brass construction, while more expensive, can offer a long term solution and reduce the need to replace fixtures on a regular basis,” said Annie Lilyblade of Blue Ocean Caribbean Enterprises, having worked on a number of design projects in the Caribbean, “However some property owners are happy to have something less robust that adds colour and style and that can be changed out when needed. The important thing is to think about the area and to use lighting that will maximize the enjoyment of being in the space”.
Here are some top tips for using lighting strategically.
- The colour of a lamp’s light is critical, as this can drastically affect how other colours in a space are perceived. Natural daylighting versus man-made lighting can either enhance or detract if not used correctly. Natural lighting is always preferred as it shows off colours better in most applications. Skylights and windows add more daylighting and will often require some type of lighting control like sheers or draperies. For man-made lighting, it can be advantageous to use a warm light for interior environments rather than the bright white to create a softer feel.
- Darker spaces will make a room feel smaller, while lighter spaces will create the illusion of more space and will reflect more light. If you have a room at the back of the house or with less natural light you can transform the space with some strategic lighting.
- General or ambient lighting is necessary to create the glow in a room or space. This could include overhead lighting or wall sconces. The use of dimmers will assist to be able to quickly change the dynamics of general lighting from daytime to nighttime settings.
- Accent lights can highlight key architectural or landscape features. Spotlights or directional lighting will enhance showpieces such as art, furniture, or unique plants or exterior hardscape. Outdoor dining and entertaining can be taken to another level if you have dramatic lighting of nearby palm trees, stone walls and/or water features.
- Task lighting is also important to make sure that daily activities have the right amount of lighting on a workspace. This is critical for the kitchen or office areas. Task lighting can be incorporated utilizing decorative fixtures or simple recessed lighting in the ceiling.
- LED lighting options are constantly improving and offer a range of colour options. These types of fixtures are more efficient and require less maintenance as they have a longer life than fluorescent fixtures.
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