Which light to choose: home lighting guide

What type of light to choose? Complete guide to choosing the perfect lighting at home

In Studio by Clikalia we know very well the importance of light to create a cozy home and give our house a specific style. Lighting is much more than a simple functional necessity; it is a powerful tool capable of completely transforming the perception of a space, creating unique environments that directly influence our mood and well-being.

A well-lit house can feel spacious, cozy and comfortable, while inadequate lighting can make it seem cold, small or even dull. That is why the type of light chosen for each room is a fundamental decision in any interior design project and it marks, more than you might think, the style and personality of a house and the people who live in it.

It is not only about the amount of light, but also about knowing how to combine different sources and color temperatures to adapt to the activities we carry out in each room. The key to success lies in defining the specific lighting needs of each space and giving them a planned and creative response.

Understanding the basics of lighting

Before diving into the ideal light for each room, it is crucial to know the different types of lighting and how they interact with each other:

  • General lighting: It is the base. It provides a uniform and homogeneous light throughout the room, avoiding hard shadows and dark areas. It usually comes from ceiling lamps, soffits or recessed spotlights.
  • Ambient lighting: Seeks to create a certain atmosphere, making the space more comfortable, cozy or warm. It is often achieved with indirect light, projected on surfaces, and using wall sconces or floor lamps, playing with the temperature and color of the light. It is soft and warm, ideal for filling in light gaps.
  • Direct (or task) lighting: It is essential to illuminate specific areas where specific activities requiring concentration are performed, such as reading, cooking, working or applying makeup. It is achieved with directional spotlights, flexos, adjustable sconces or table and floor lamps that direct the light beam in a focused manner.
  • Decorative (or accent) lighting: Used to enhance architectural or decorative elements, such as paintings, sculptures, showcases or wall textures. It helps to add a touch of design and character to the room. Sconces, spotlights or LED strips are used.

The combination of these different types of lighting in the same space is the key to obtaining excellent results. Every corner and every activity calls for a different light, so we should not rely on a single source. Creating layers of light (ambient, accent and task) allows us to adapt the space to different day-to-day needs.

Color temperature: warm or cool?

Another crucial factor to consider when deciding which type of light to choose is the color temperature, which is measured in degrees Kelvin (K). This determines whether the light will have a more yellow (warm) or more white/bluish (cool) hue.

  • Warm light (less than 3,000 K): With a more yellow tone. It promotes relaxation, rest and creates intimate and cozy environments. It is ideal for bedrooms and living rooms. Values between 2200 and 3300 K correspond to warm light.
  • Neutral light (between 4,000 and 5,000 K): This is a normal white light, very similar to natural daylight. It is the most appropriate for general lighting in many rooms.
  • White or cold light (between 5,000 and 6,500 K): It has bluer tones. It stimulates us, keeps us alert and favors concentration. It is suitable for offices, offices and study areas where maximum light and visual effort is required. It is less tiring for these tasks.

Experts recommend avoiding extremes (very warm or cold lights) in general, although the final choice depends on the desired ambience for each activity and room. Nor mix, in the same room, different light temperatures. In general, a house should have a balance between warm and neutral lights.

In addition to color temperature, the Color Rendering Index (CRI) is important; it indicates how natural the colors of objects look in that light. A value above 90 is optimal for close reproduction to sunlight.

Room lighting: A practical guide

Now that we know the basics, let's look at what type of light to choose for each space in the house, considering its specific functions and needs:

The living room: The heart of the house

The living room is where we spend most of our time and carry out various activities: resting, reading, watching TV, working, receiving visitors. Therefore, the lighting must be very flexible to integrate visual comfort and comfort.

  • Take advantage of natural light: Install light curtains or net curtains to let the light flow and avoid obstructing it with furniture.
  • General lighting: A soft and not too intense general light is ideal. Ceiling lamps, surface-mounted ceiling lights or recessed spotlights fulfill this function. Wall sconces that project light to the ceiling also create a pleasant general ambient light.
  • Spot and ambient lighting: This is needed for specific tasks. Floor lamps by the sofa or in reading nooks provide warm, diffused light to accompany television viewing, or directional light for reading. Table lamps are also appropriate. Lights behind the television can reduce eyestrain. Soft, warm ambient lights fill in gaps and prevent shadows.
  • Decorative lighting: Complements the other types, enhancing decorative or design elements or aspects of the room.
  • Flexibility is key: Use dimmable light to adapt the intensity according to activity or time of day. Modern LED ceiling lights often include dimming control or different types of lighting (or scenes) that distinguish general light from indirect light.
  • Color temperature: Warm light (less than 3000 K) is generally recommended to promote relaxation, as it is a resting space. However, neutral light (4000-5000 K) can be used for general lighting, and some LED luminaires allow dimming, offering warmer light during the day and more neutral light at night for tasks. Warm light is more relaxing.

For a medium-sized living room, several light points with different functions are recommended. In larger or open spaces, there may be five or more.

The dining room: as decorative as it is practical

The dining room requires lighting that is both decorative and practical.

  • Soft general lighting: Provides a warm ambiance. Can be achieved with recessed spotlights or track luminaires.
  • Lighting over the table: It is essential to illuminate the dining table well with a ceiling lamp, preferably a pendant lamp. The shape of the lamp can be coordinated with the shape of the table (round for a round table, elongated or several round ones for a rectangular table). The ideal height above the table is between 75 and 90 cm to avoid glare. One or several hanging lamps can be used, creating customized compositions.
  • Accent lighting: Decorative wall sconces can complement the lighting above the table and create a more intimate atmosphere.
  • Dimmers: Highly recommended in the dining room to create a cozier atmosphere during after-dinner meals.
  • Color temperature: Similar to the living room, warm light promotes a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.

Bedroom: The place to rest

To promote rest, the light in the bedroom should not be too bright. Shadows help to relax the eyes. Here,what type of light to choose should focus on creating an atmosphere that invites calm.

  • Indirect general lighting: It is best to opt for indirect general lighting, perhaps with a hanging lamp or ceiling spotlights that project light upwards or in a diffused manner.
  • Spot lighting: Essential in bedside tables with table lamps or wall sconces. They should provide adequate direct light for reading in bed without being disturbing. If you use sconces, place them 90-100 cm from the floor.
  • Closet and/or dressing room: It needs spot or integrated lighting to avoid shadows and facilitate the choice of clothes. Recessed spotlights are very suitable.
  • Color temperature: Warm light (less than 3000 K) is the most recommended in the bedroom because it transmits relaxation and well-being, favoring the production of melatonin for sleep. Opt for a soft and moderate tonality.
  • LED Versatility: Rooms with LED lights are popular for their efficiency and the ability to adjust intensity and color, creating customized environments. LED strips can be used indirectly in headboards, bookshelves or closets. Smart bulbs allow smartphone control.

Combining ceiling lights, table lamps, sconces and floor lamps will allow you to create layers of light and adjust the mood according to the occasion.

Kitchen: Full functionality

The kitchen is a multifunctional space where food is prepared, eaten or socialized.

  • Uniform general lighting: It should be bright and uniform, without generating heat and with low power consumption. Recessed solutions, LED or fluorescent panels are good options. Also illuminate the countertop correctly, since it is a work space and where we perform activities that require certain precision.
  • Storage lighting: Inside cabinets and drawers, LED strips or battery-operated strips are very practical, illuminating the interior without being visible from the outside. They can be installed with sensors that turn on the light when opened.
  • Color temperature: It is best for the kitchen to choose a neutral light (4000-5000 K). It resembles natural daylight and is very comfortable for the eye to perform tasks.

Bathroom: Practical and relaxing

The modern bathroom fulfills practical (hygiene) and relaxation functions.

  • General lighting: A ceiling light or spotlights in the ceiling that cover the entire room to see the entire body.
  • Spot lighting in the washroom: Essential over or next to the mirror to illuminate the face when applying makeup, shaving, etc. Must have an IP rating suitable for moisture, such as IP44.
  • Ambient lighting: If you have a separate bath or shower area, an ambient light (IP65) can contribute to relaxation.
  • Suitable lamps: Make sure that the lamps can withstand humidity.
  • Color temperature: Neutral lights are preferred for washroom tasks, providing great luminosity. Dimmers are useful to create a softer and more relaxing atmosphere at other times.

Some technical aspects and current trends

Beyond type and temperature, considering technical aspects such as power (lumens vs. watts) and energy efficiency (LEDs are the most efficient) is crucial, especially from a savings perspective.

In addition, current trends in lighting offer new possibilities:

  • Minimalist designs: Lamps with simple lines and geometric shapes that provide elegance and versatility.
  • Integration of home automation: Intelligent systems allow you to control the light (intensity, color) from your smartphone or tablet, creating "aesthetic rooms" and customizing the atmosphere.
  • Biophilic lighting: Use of natural materials in lamps and incorporation of lights that mimic the cycles of the sun to connect with nature and improve well-being.

Lighting is a fundamental pillar of interior design. Spending time planning what type of light to choose for each room, combining different types of lighting (general, ambient, task and decorative) and selecting the right color temperature, can completely transform your home, creating spaces that are not only beautiful, but also functional and contribute to your well-being. The versatility offered by LED solutions and the integration of smart technology open up a world of possibilities to adapt light to every moment and activity.

In all the integral reforms that we do in Studio by Clikalia we take into account the lighting when designing a project and the client's personal preferences. Both natural and artificial. It is an element of great importance, not only for the day to day and the most practical and functional use of the house, but also to convey the character and personality of the house. If you are looking for a study of reforms that put light on the reform you have in mind, ask us for a free estimate and one of our architects will visit the house you want to renovate for free.