Lighting is one of the best ways to influence a room’s atmosphere or mood. For example, subtle lighting in a bedroom or at a dinner table creates a romantic ambiance, whilst bright and purposeful lighting in the office or kitchen will motivate you and show you mean business. Dimmed lighting in the living room is relaxing for watching the TV or reading a book, whilst accent lighting highlights your artistic side.
Changing the lighting will also alter how to room look as well as how it feels. Lighting can be used to make a room look bigger or cosier, whatever you like. This is almost as effective as painting the walls different colours.
To make your room look larger, use one colour on large surfaces like the ceiling or a feature wall. Use up-lighting to bounce light on the walls and ceiling. THen, use panels of light at one end of the room – your eye will be directed towards it, making the space appear longer as you look down it.
Also light all corners of the room and really brighten it up.
To add height, use vertical lights and beams, often from the floor. Hang any walls lights low on the wall.
To make the room more cosy, use dimmly lit lights, such as table lamps and wall lamps. Don’t use ceiling lights and don’t let light touch the ceiling.