Light fantastic

A good lighting plan helps you set out what type of lighting you require and where that lighting needs to go. The practical function of lighting will vary from room to room. For example, the kitchen will require light to enable you to see while cooking, as well as providing a visual effect. How To magazine has put together this guide to lighting to help you illuminate your home, both aesthetically and practically.

There are a few terms to understand that will help you when putting together your lighting plan, starting with effects that can be broken down into three distinct categories:

Task lighting will provide light to help you complete tasks, focused onto areas where you perform household duties. The new range of task lamps from Orbit includes contemporary designs and energy efficiency combined with functionality and performance.

Ambient lighting, or background lighting, enables you to provide a room with a light that is even. This effect can be thought of as the canvas upon which other light combinations can be used. Shadows can be diffused with ambient light, giving your room a sense of even light coverage.

Accent lighting is where you can play with your lighting plan to highlight colours, walls or areas of interest. Have some fun with this part, as you will be surprised what a well - placed accent light can do for a room.

To achieve these effects, it is important to utilize the distribution of light. You can do this by choosing the type of light fixture, light bulb and placement of the light to best enhance the area. Light distribution can be thought of as follows:

Omni - directional - light that is dispersed in all directions simultaneously.

Semi - directional - light mainly focused in one direction, with a small amount diffused in other directions.

Directional - light focused in a beam on one spot with no diffusion.

Style of lighting is out next stop, and it is where the market of light fittings is illuminated for you. As mentioned, the sheer volume and variety of products on the market can be overwhelming. However, sticking with a reputable retailer and keeping the effect you wish to achieve in mind will help you to keep focused. So here we go with some broad categories and descriptions to help you put the choices in perspective:
Recessed down lights are perfect for your ambient lighting effect, providing well - distributed light over horizontal surfaces. You can look at these as your starting point for most rooms in your home.

Up lighting will provide you with an ambient light that is dispersed towards the ceiling from wall - mounted fittings or free standing. Wall washing is the term used to describe accent lighting coming from the ceiling and focused on the wall. Typically this type of effect is used to highlight feature walls, bookshelves, artwork and even fireplaces.

Spot lighting is again accent lighting narrowly focused on a particular part of your home; ideal for those areas where tasks are to be carried out and good illumination is required.

Recessed strip lighting combines the effects of fluorescent lighting with the secrecy of placing the lighting source behind furniture, under shelving or in pelmets in the ceiling. Using this technique will allow you to have dramatic accent lighting on areas where tasks are performed.

Chandeliers provide elegance and an air of grace to any home. The traditional chandelier is made of crystal however more cost - effective materials can provide the desired effect.

Lamps are an effective and personal addition to any room. From bedside or table lamps, through to floor stands and desk lamps, the effect created can provide warmth and an aesthetic touch. The new Deco range from Orbit is a great example and with laser cut designs, metallic paints, flocking and satin fabrics, while maintaining an affordable price, there is something for everyone.

Track or wire systems are extremely useful when there are issues with existing wiring access, or if you wish to make a dramatic accent lighting statement.

Dimmers can add a range of dimensions to your lighting plan by varying the amount of light emitted from the source. Always worth considering where a dimmer unit might be of use.

Energy efficiency

Approximately 10% of the electricity bill of an average home, will be for lighting purposes. Why not look at the alternatives on the market to save you money and reduce your carbon footprint.

A regular incandescent light bulb will produce 5% light and 95% heat as opposed to an energy - saving bulb, which produces next to no heat at all. Combined with this you can fit CFLs into the majority of light sockets and they will last a whopping ten years at three hours use a day. As with all advancements in technology, CFLs are now available in a range of whites to suit your home; cool "bluish" white for the kitchen and bathroom, warm white for the living room and cool white.

Another alternative on the market are light emitting diodes ; essentially a diode that emits light when an electrical current passes through it. LEDs have revolutionised the lighting world and are available in a range of colours, dictated by the semiconductor material used in their manufacture. Colours available include red, orange, amber, yellow, green, blue and white.

Using an Orbit George desk lamp is an excellent example of lighting efficiency. The George is a lightweight model with a 1 - watt LED globe included. Not only will you have ample light for your workspace, but also you will be using next to no power at all.

If you thought CFLs were long lasting, get ready for an LED light that will not need replacing for many years. Moving house may include taking your lighting with you.

Its worth mentioning that natural light is a free source and can provide your home with just the right look. A well - placed window, skylight or other opening can flood your home with light, whether from the sun or moon.
Have fun with your lighting choices. Its a great part of designing your home and can really show off your personality. Just remember to stick to your budget and seek professional help when you need to.