
Your home's lighting isn't just about achieving a functional purpose. It has the power to transform the ambience of your space and amplify its aesthetic appeal, without costing a bomb.
Here are some simple and low-investment ideas to enhance your home's lighting and take it from average to amazing.
Play around with natural light
Throw open the windows wherever possible, and allow the natural light to flood into your home. Natural light is the best option for your daytime lighting needs, so utilise it the best you can.
But what if you don't live in a home that gets a ton of natural light? Mirrors can help maximise whatever light a room receives by bouncing it around. You could hang large mirrors in any shape of your choice on the wall. Or, install accent pieces with mirrored surfaces.
Ditch the outdated lighting
Old light fixtures not only add to your utility bills but may also clash with your interiors. Get rid of those energy-hog light fixtures like the dated chandelier and source a sleek contemporary piece with an Energy Star rating from online stores like OzLighting.
Focus on energy-conservation
Swap lights that are left on for long periods like the kitchen and porch lights with energy-efficient light bulbs to bring down your home's energy consumption. Energy star-rated lights can significantly contribute towards the conservation of energy as well as your hard-earned money.
Create a statement piece
For a large open layout like your living or dining room, have one grand light fixture that can take centre stage. A uniquely styled floor lamp or an antique table lamp can be the focal point in a smaller space.
Opt for purposeful lighting
Don't kill the vibe of a room with excessive lighting. Install fixtures considering the utility. For the kitchen or the study room, get strong overhead lights. For the TV-focused areas, ambient lights will set the mood as well as reduce the glare on the screen.
Layer your lighting
Experts suggest introducing layered lighting to your home - ambient lights for even illumination, task lighting for kitchen counters and reading nooks, accent lights to showcase design elements, and finally, decorative lights like chandeliers. You can use low-power lightings for smaller spaces, but a balanced layering of lights can define the character of a room.
Get dimmers
Dimmer switches are a fascinating innovation in the lighting world. The plus points of dimmers are one too many: they help trim energy bills, transform the room's ambience instantly, and extend the bulbs' life as well. Use dimmers if you are in the mood for nuanced soft light instead of something bright.
App-controlled lighting
Smart lights that are controlled through a mobile app are a convenient and cutting-edge addition to your home. If returning from work to a dark house isn't a pleasant idea for you, just use the app to have the living room light turn on while you park your car. Cool, isn't it?
Do you heart any of these awesome ideas to upgrade your home's lighting? Tell us in the comments.