Design by Designs by D
Achieving the right lighting in your space is a must, but sometimes it can be hard to know which types of lighting to choose. Should you go with sconces? An overhead chandelier? Table and floor lamps? The possibilities are limitless and can feel overwhelming.
That’s why today’s blog is all about simplifying the process. We’ve pulled together a step-by-step guide to choosing the lighting that’s perfectly fit for you. Because whether you have a historic home without overhead wiring in some rooms or a new construction that can be easily customized to your needs, there is always a solution that works - you just have to know how to find it.
Step 1 - Determine Your Wiring Situation
First and foremost, before you can decide on matte black or brushed nickel finishes, you have to know what you’re working with. After all, there’s no point in falling in love with a vintage pendant if your wiring situation demands a sconce. So, you need to assess your current lighting styles. The easiest route, of course, is to simply replace fixtures exactly where they are without extensive wiring changes. But that’s not always the best solution. If your home is being significantly renovated or its original light placements just won’t work for your vision, you will need to enlist the help of an electrician. And while that may cost a bit more up front, trust us when we say it’ll be worth it all in the long run.
Design by Designs by D
Design by Designs by D
Step 2 - Measure, Measure, Measure
Have you ever heard the phrase “measure twice, cut once?” Well, the same idea applies to lighting. One of the most frustrating things is to buy a fixture only to find out when it arrives that it’s way too large or small for the space. That’s why getting the scale and size right before you choose a fixture is a must. While specific measurements for things like wall sconces or the placement of your kitchen island pendants is essential (you don’t want your fixtures colliding with each other or surrounding cabinetry and decor), in general you also want to be aware of the size of the light in proportion to the rest of the room. A wide open kitchen and living room with soaring vaulted ceilings simply cannot be lit with a flush mount fixture. You need a larger-than-life chandelier to make everything fit scale-wise. Similarly, a cozy powder room needs a much smaller lighting solution - anything too oversized will make the space feel cluttered and off.
Design by Designs by D
Design by Designs by D
Step 3 - Narrow Down Your Style
Before you go on a days-long search for the perfect fixture, it helps immensely to narrow down your criteria first. You’ve got your lighting type and size thanks to taking stock on your current wiring and scale needs, but now you need to be clear on the style you want. Are you going for a modern farmhouse look? Craving a glam-inspired mix of chrome and brushed brass? Or are you drawn to traditional silhouettes and styles in your decor? Whatever your preference, make sure you’re letting that factor into your decision. Keep your overall design goal in mind so you don’t get distracted by a glittery chandelier that, while gorgeous online, will look a bit ridiculous with the rest of your more natural and casual home style.
Design by Designs by D
Design by Designs by D
Step 4 - Find the Perfect Fit
Once you’ve got the essential practical components in place, the fun begins. With your narrowed-down criteria in hand, you can search to your heart’s content for that perfect lighting fit. Just remember that finding the right fixture does take time, and you’ll want to compare a few options before clicking that “purchase” button. Try to imagine them in your space and think about how each one makes you feel - are you in love with the globe shape of that pendant or the modern silhouette of that chandelier? Or does it give you more “meh” vibes all around? If we know one thing, it’s that lighting is something you’re likely to live with for awhile, so getting it right and choosing something you absolutely adore is essential.
Design by Designs by D
Design by Designs by D
Even with a step-by-step guide, lighting can feel like a weighty decision. So, if you’re still looking at a to-do list of an entire house of lights to choose and you’re feeling exhausted before you’ve even taken the first step, don’t worry. We’re here to help. Give us a call and let’s set up a consult - the challenge of finding the perfect light is one of our favorite things to do.
By Megan Johansson, Contributor to Designs by D