How to Use Interior Lighting to Create a Cozy Atmosphere

indoor lighting

Indoor lighting can be highly customized to create the atmosphere you want in a room. In fact, when it comes to creating an atmosphere, lighting is one of the key elements. Incandescent and ambient indoor lighting is very effective at creating a cozy, warm space. Let’s look at a few ways you can use lighting to do this.

Incandescent Lighting

Incandescent lighting is created using a filament that is heated until it starts glowing. It produces a warm, yellowish light and creates a cozy feeling in a room. These are best when used in lamps or fixtures that aren’t placed very high. Eye level is best. This type of light is diffused and is easy on the eyes.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting is used to create a larger, overall glow for a room. Lighting specialists suggest that you use recessed lighting, track lighting, or string lights to achieve a cozy warm glow that reaches farther into the room. Ambient lighting works best when it’s combined with other types of lighting such as table lamps or floor lamps. When you layer indoor lighting you can create different types of atmosphere with flexibility to change it up when needed. For example, according to HGTV, ambient kitchen lighting should be 5,000-10,000 lumens, with task lighting at counters or sinks and range a minimum of 450 lumens in each area.

Color Temperature

Color temperature needs to be considered when you’re choosing lighting for your home. You should know that incandescent bulbs usually have a warm, yellow hue, while LED bulbs can vary depending on the specific type you’re purchasing. You would want bulbs with a color temp between 2700K and 3000K to get a cozy feel according to our experts.

Placement

You will also want to consider indoor lighting placement. Be careful when placing lighting features directly above seating areas since this often creates harsh shadows. Stick with light fixtures specifically meant for this purpose such as chandeliers. You can also use shades or diffusers to create a softer, more cozy glow.

There are other steps you can take beyond lighting, to create a cozy atmosphere in your home. Consider using soft, plush textiles in your living spaces. Blankets and throw pillows help to make a room inviting. Candles are also a good addition and really bring a lot of ambiance. If you need assistance with indoor lighting questions, please contact us today. We are here for all of your lighting needs!

Posted: September 11th, 2023