Lighting Fixtures and Bulbs Mrs. Molino Interior Design

Ambient lighting provides an area with overall illumination. Also known as general lighting, it radiates a comfortable level of brightness without glare and allows you to see and walk about safely. In some spaces such as laundry rooms, the ambient lighting also serves as the primary source of task lighting.

Ambient lighting It can be accomplished with chandeliers, ceiling or wall-mounted fixtures, recessed or track lights and with lanterns mounted on the outside of the home. Having a central source of ambient light in all rooms is fundamental to a good lighting plan. Ambient light is typically provided by ceiling fixtures, sometimes called overhead lights. These may include recessed down-lights, surface-mounted fixtures or fixtures mounted in ceiling fans. Floor and table lamps are another common source of ambient lighting.

Accent Lighting Accent lighting is designed to complement the ambient fixtures within the space. It can help highlight certain aspects of the room, or create a sense of separation between different spaces. Accent lights are often pointed at a fireplace or painting, or may be installed on either side of an object to "frame" it, in a sense. Typically, accent lighting is composed of track fixtures, sconces or spotlights, though other fixtures may also be used.help

Task Lighting – Task lighting is used to provide a localized light source for a specific tasks. Some popular task lighting sources include desk lamps, kitchen or bathroom pendants and lights in refrigerators and other appliances. The type of lighting is designed to be used only when the task is being performed. When it is not needed, it can be turned off to conserve energy and extend the life of the bu

Decorative Lighting – Decorative lighting is light that is used more for its appearance than for its ability to produce light. This may include chandeliers, hanging fixtures and sconces. Here, the fixture itself is the main attraction, though the light produced can also be beneficial. Decorative fixtures are added as part of an overall lighting and design plan and are not generally included as part of ambient lighting.

Lighting Technologies The traditional light source in the home is the incandescent bulb. Invented more than 100 years ago, this technology is reliable, but is quite inefficient, and bulbs have a short lifespan. Compact fluorescent bulbs are more efficient, and last much longer than other bulbs. These bulbs work with most types of indoor light fixtures, but are not very effective when used with dimmable fixtures.light fixtures The newest type of lighting technology used in the home is the LED bulb. These bulbs are highly efficient and long-lasting, and newer models can be used in dimming applications.