Technically Speaking About Lighting

Clients often have very specific concerns about lighting beyond setting the mood or layering.  Please read Technically Speaking as we address a few of the more frequently asked questions about lighting and placement.


Technically Speaking

Why and When Should I Hire a Lighting Consultant?

"If good lighting is particularly important to you you might like to consider employing the services of a lighting designer.

Lighting designers understand the role that light plays in architecture and interior design.  They have a unparalleled understanding and knowledge of lighting technology."

Here is more information about hiring a lighting consultant.

What Type of Light Bulb Should I Buy?

The most common types of lights bulbs are the LED, Halogen, CFL (Compact Fluorescent) and Incandescent.  But which one should you buy?

To help determine which bulb to buy, it is important understand certain information that is found on the Lighting Facts Label (LFL), which is found on the packaging of light bulbs.

One piece of information on the LFL is the brightness of bulb, which is measured in lumens.  It is important to focus on lumens rather that watts (watts is the energy that is used).

"Here is the rule of thumb:

• To replace a 100-watt incandescent bult, look for a bulb that you about 1600 lumens.  If you want something dimmer, go for less lumens; if you prefer brighter light, look for more lumens.
• Replace a 75W bulb with an LED bulb that gives you about 1100 lumens
• Replace a 60W bulb with an LED bulb that gives you about 800 lumens
• Replace a 40W bulb with an LED bulb that gives you about 450 lumens"

Another important piece of information is the light appearance, which is measured in kelvins.

"Here are some helpful hints:

• Soft White (2700K - 3000K):  This is a good general purpose bulb; its warm light tends to complement many warm-hued home color schemes as well as skin tones
• Bright White/Cool White (3500K - 4100K):  If you've ever described light as "clean", you're probably referring to this kind of bulb.  They're brighter, and enhance spaces with cooler color schemes.
• Daylight (5000K - 6500K):  These approximate bright, sunny daylight but can produce harsh light"

Still confused?  Check out this "Bulb Guide"!

What are the Standard Measurements for Hanging a Chandelier in a Dining Room, Bath Vanity Fixture or Island Pendants?

The standard measurement of hanging a chandelier in a dining room should be 30-34 inches above the table.

The standard measurement for hanging island pendants should be about 30 - 34 inches.

The standard measurement for hanging a bath vanity fixture should be 75 to 80 inches above the floor.  Bathroom scones should be hung at eye level.

Here is more information about standard measurements for hanging light fixtures.

How Many Recessed Lights is Appropriate for My Space?

"To determine how far apart to space your recessed lights, divide the height of the ceiling to two.  If a room has an 8 foot ceiling, you should space your recessed lights approximately 4 feet apart.  If the ceiling is 10 feet, you'll want to put about 5 feet of space between each fixture."

Here is more information about recessed lights.