Why Lighting In Our Home And Garden Matters

What is it about light that fascinates us and even affects our mood?  Why are we so influenced when we enter a home or restaurant by simple thing like light fixtures?  Why does something that seems so trivial change the way we see a room.

Think about it, if you decide to go out to a romantic dinner, why do you choose a restaurant with soft, subdued lighting or even dine by candlelight?  What is it about this type of lighting that says romance.  These questions do have some psychological answers, but since we're talking about lighting and not psychology, I'll leave you to simply ponder.

Since it's true that lighting does affect how we see a room, home and garden lighting is an important consideration  and good choices count, regarding each of them.  There are several choices in lighting both in brightness and decor.  Both areas of lighting should be given deliberate attention.

First, brightness.  For areas that are used for work or reading, cooking, grooming and dressing, lights that allow seventy watts of light or more are a wise choice.  Decorative light fixtures often go to around 100 watts each so additional recessed cans area good idea.  They give a good amount of light in various areas but don't draw the eye as a focal point.

Consider choosing decorative fixtures over the kitchen or dining room table and breakfast bar to draw attention and the recessed lighting in strategic areas to brighten the room.  In cabinets, LED lighting can be a good choice.  In bathroom areas, the same concept as the kitchen can be used. 

Recessed lighting over the shower/tub area, over the toilet as well, if you have a larger bathroom where the toilet is separated from the rest of the room, and decorative lighting over the sink and mirror.  Since this area is also the grooming area, choose 3 or 4 bulb fixtures over a two sink counter of at least 60 watts.  If the room is smaller, adjust accordingly.

Choosing home and garden lighting that accentuates decor is next.  Think about the theme of your home or garden.  Choose fixtures that complement that theme.  There are many choices that range from economical to the extremely expensive that can add just the right touch to these areas. 

Be sure to avoid getting caught up in the moment and choosing a fixture that is totally impractical and offers no integrity in the decor.  This can be an expensive mistake and throw the mood and feel of your home or garden out the window.

Remember that lighting plays a significant role in how both you and your guests feel in your home.  Lighting offers an intangible aspect to the look and mood of those invited into your home and can also say a little about those who live there.