One Room Challenge Week 4: Pantry Paradise - Shedding Light on the Importance of Lighting

One Room Challenge Week 4: Shedding Light on the Importance of Lighting

Hey there, design lovers! Welcome back to Pantry Paradise, where I’m giving you all the behind-the-scenes updates on my One Room Challenge project. This week, we’re diving into one of the most critical elements of any space—lighting. As an interior designer with a background in electrical engineering, I have a unique perspective on lighting, blending both creativity and technical know-how. Let me walk you through why lighting is so important, how to choose the right fixtures, and how much lighting you actually need to illuminate your space perfectly!

Why Lighting is So Important

Lighting is much more than just a practical necessity—it’s a key design element that can completely transform the feel of a room. It sets the mood, highlights architectural features, and even influences how colors and textures appear.

In my design work, I always say lighting is like the "jewelry" of a room. It’s one of those final touches that can elevate a space, making it feel more polished and cohesive. And because of my technical background, I also approach lighting with the understanding of how it impacts the functionality of a room. You can have the most beautiful space, but without the right lighting, it won’t reach its full potential.

How to Choose the Right Lighting for a Space

Choosing the right lighting for a room can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s all about finding the right balance between form and function. Here’s a breakdown of different lighting options and how to choose the right one for your space.

1. Chandeliers: For Statement and Elegance

Chandeliers are perfect for making a grand statement in larger rooms like dining areas, entryways, or even a spacious kitchen. They add drama and elegance, becoming a focal point. If you want something eye-catching that adds character to a room, a chandelier might be your best bet.

When to Use a Chandelier:

• High ceilings and large spaces.
• Dining rooms and entryways for a formal touch.
• Areas where you want the lighting fixture to serve as a bold design statement.

2. Pendant Lights: Versatile and Stylish

Pendant lights are like the middle ground between functional and decorative lighting. They’re more versatile than chandeliers and can be used in clusters or alone. These are fantastic over kitchen islands, in bathrooms, or even over bedside tables for a modern twist.

When to Use Pendant Lights:

• Over kitchen islands or dining tables.
• For task lighting in work areas (think home offices).
• In hallways for a clean, modern look.

3. Flush Mounts: Low Profile, High Functionality

Flush mounts are mounted directly against the ceiling, which makes them great for spaces with lower ceilings or smaller rooms. While they’re often considered more functional than decorative, there are plenty of stylish options that can still add personality to a space.

When to Use Flush Mounts:

• Rooms with low ceilings (less than 8 feet).
• Closets, bathrooms, or hallways where you need lighting but don’t have the space for something larger.
• Anywhere that requires consistent lighting coverage without taking up visual space.

How Much Lighting Do You Actually Need?

Now that we’ve talked about the different types of lighting, let’s address a common question: How much lighting is enough?

It’s not just about picking the right fixture—it’s about ensuring that the lighting in a room is adequate for the space. One way to determine how much light is needed is by calculating lumens—the measure of brightness a light source provides. Here’s a general rule of thumb:

• Living Rooms: Aim for about 10-20 lumens per square foot. This gives you the flexibility to adjust the mood with lamps and dimmers.
• Kitchens: Because kitchens are workspaces, they need more light—aim for 70-100 lumens per square foot.
• Bedrooms: Around 10-20 lumens per square foot is typically sufficient, but you can always supplement with softer, ambient lighting for a cozy feel.
• Bathrooms: You’ll need about 70-80 lumens per square foot, especially around the vanity for tasks like shaving or makeup application.

Remember, layering your lighting is key. Combine ambient lighting (your general, room-wide light) with task lighting (for focused areas) and accent lighting (to highlight features like artwork or architectural details). This not only makes your space functional but also adds depth and dimension.

My Lighting Plan for Pantry Paradise

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let me give you a sneak peek into my lighting plan for Pantry Paradise. As part of the One Room Challenge, I’ve partnered with Kuzco and Alora Lighting, and their beautiful fixtures are going to take this pantry to the next level!

For the pantry, I’m going with flush mount lighting to provide even illumination across the space, and strip lights above the countertop area for a little touch of style. Since it’s a smaller space, I need bright, functional lighting that makes it easy to see everything, while still keeping it aesthetically pleasing.

My background in electrical engineering helps me ensure that the lighting layout will not only look great but also provide the right amount of illumination without any dark corners or shadows. Function and beauty—what more could you ask for?

Conclusion

Lighting can make or break a room’s design, and with the right balance of creative vision and technical know-how, you can truly transform a space. Whether you’re going for a bold chandelier, versatile pendant lights, or practical flush mounts, it’s all about choosing what works best for your room's size, function, and style. Don’t forget to calculate how much lighting is needed, and always layer your lighting for the best effect.

If you want more personalized advice or help planning the lighting for your own home, don’t hesitate to reach out to me for a discovery call. I’d love to help you light up your space beautifully and functionally!

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