I’m planning the lighting for our new house and wondering about the number of light fixtures needed. The living room plus kitchen is 40 square meters, the kids’ rooms and bedroom total 14 square meters, the bathrooms are 5 square meters each, and the hallway is 9 square meters. Would love to hear your recommendations!
It sounds like the kitchen could use more lighting, while the bedrooms, corridor, and living room might have too many lights. Consider using sconces at the bathroom mirrors for better lighting, which could let you cut down on other fixtures. Think about the purpose of each light, like adjustable recessed lights in the master bedroom to highlight art or illuminate a nightstand without causing glare where someone might sit.
@Lior
Thanks for the feedback. What do you think about this updated plan? More lights in the kitchen, fewer in the bedroom, and I adjusted the children’s rooms. Here’s the new layout: Imgur: The magic of the Internet
It sounds like you might need sunglasses inside with all that lighting!
Sloan said:
It sounds like you might need sunglasses inside with all that lighting!
We currently have 4000 lumens in both the kids’ room and living room, and we like the brightness. But we’re moving from a single source to multiple smaller sources. Do you still think it’s too much?
Why not mix it up with different types of lights like pendants, wall lights, and low-level lights, instead of all recessed downlights?
Tory said:
Why not mix it up with different types of lights like pendants, wall lights, and low-level lights, instead of all recessed downlights?
We prefer ceiling lights for their practicality, though we’ll have a pendant light over the dining table. I’m considering adding dimmers to manage the ambiance and prevent it from feeling like a stark, overly bright space.
@Ren
Definitely include dimmers in the kitchen, dining, living areas, and bedrooms to adjust the mood and avoid that harsh, clinical light.
Here’s a fun lighting concept I came up with; feel free to ask about it. I’ve included various scenes and layouts for you to consider. Links: Scene 1 (Low), Scene 2 (High), All Luminaires
Mackenzie said:
Here’s a fun lighting concept I came up with; feel free to ask about it. I’ve included various scenes and layouts for you to consider. Links: Scene 1 (Low), Scene 2 (High), All Luminaires
This visualization is really helpful, thank you! What’s your take on the light placement and count? I noticed you added a light over the kitchen counter which is smart. But why is there a light above the fridge?
You might want to rethink using all recessed lights. They direct all light downward, which can make your ceiling look dark and your space less inviting. Not to mention, looking directly at recessed lights from a bed can be blinding. Consider using under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen for better task lighting.
@Micah
Appreciate your insight! I’m now considering different types of lighting for the bedrooms to avoid direct glare. We already plan to use LED strips under the kitchen cabinets for enhanced task lighting.
Downlights are effective but you might have too many. Think about using fewer, strategically placed ones with dimmers. Consider additional task lighting in the kitchen over work areas like benches. Pendants can be useful but may not suit if you’re tall.
@Koa
We’re maintaining a high lumen output in key areas with the switch to multiple smaller sources for a more balanced light distribution. Your point on strategic placement and dimming options is well taken.
I’d definitely add more lights to the kitchen; a decorative LED strip alone won’t suffice. Consider small downlights over areas like the sink for better visibility. Also, think about dimmers and choosing the right color temperature to enhance the room’s feel.
@Cameron
Thanks for the suggestion. The LED strip isn’t just for decoration but also serves as a light source. We’re considering dimmers based on functionality and will prepare for them in the electrical setup to possibly add later.
Having many lights on dimmers at lower intensity often works better than a few bright ones. Under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen will add both functionality and ambiance.
Gray said:
Having many lights on dimmers at lower intensity often works better than a few bright ones. Under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen will add both functionality and ambiance.
Exactly my thoughts! We’re aiming for a balanced light setup that avoids harsh shadows and creates a welcoming atmosphere. Under-cabinet LED strips will definitely be part of our kitchen lighting plan.
Consider adding slim, wafer-style LED lights in the shower for energy-efficient lighting, and think about dimmable options for the bedrooms to adjust light levels to suit different times of day or activities.