A light is a light, right? Not exactly. Overhead lighting, sconces, pendants, track lighting – sure, they all provide light. But some are better suited for certain applications than others. The truth is that many homeowners don’t know the impact lighting can have on ambience, mood, home design, and productivity. Read on to learn how to avoid some of the most common lighting mistakes so you can see your home in a whole new light.

Dim Kitchen

A flush mount fixture in the center of the ceiling and a pendant over the sink hardly provide enough light to make a PB&J let alone prep, cook, and enjoy an entire meal. Install overhead track lighting with adjustable lamps or under-cabinet lighting to provide just the right balance of task and mood lighting. It may not improve your cooking, but at least you’ll be able to read the take-out menu more clearly.

Bad Mood

A bright, glaring light is great for a hospital room – not so much for a dining or living room. A pendant or chandelier positioned over the dining table can enhance your dining experience while strategically positioned lamps and recessed lights can provide task lighting for game night, or ambience for a quiet night in. Add a dimmer switch and select soft white bulbs over cool or bright.

In the Spotlight

Recessed lights can eliminate the need for bulky ceiling lights, giving a room a clean, timeless look. But their cones of light can’t reach the far corners of a room, resulting in dark spots. Bring in wall sconces, pendants, and accent lamps to boost ambient light.

Unflattering Light

Don’t like what you see in the mirror? Your bathroom light may be to blame. A lone light over the bathroom sink can cast shadows on your face, exaggerating fine lines, dark circles, and more. Upgrade your bathroom – and your look – by installing wall sconces at eye level or vertical light strips along the sides of the mirror.

Hidden Assets

A prized painting or statue deserves a place of honor in your home. Show off your collection by illuminating artwork with specially designed picture lights or fluorescent light strips. Avoid halogen bulbs which can damage artwork.

Form Over Function

A beautifully designed floor lamp becomes nothing more than décor if it doesn’t provide proper illumination. When choosing accent lighting, consider how the fixture will serve your needs. Want to add ambient lighting? Choose a fixture that produces a wide swath of light. Looking for a reading lamp? Pick a model that shines light on your lap rather than toward the ceiling.

Ignoring the Exterior

A well-lit home is a more secure home, especially when it comes to the exterior. Consider a motion-activated security light that only switches on when it detects movement. Add solar landscape lights to make your yard not only beautiful when the sun goes down but safer, too.

No matter which room in your home could benefit from some well thought out illumination, Excel Electric can design and install exactly what your space needs, and you want. For a free lighting proposal and a guaranteed price quote, contact us today.