Open plan living space? The right lighting can really make it sing… Whether a kitchen-diner or a completely open plan arrangement, find out how to light it up with our expert lighting tips…
1) Use lighting to create different zones
One of the challenges of lighting a large, open space is how to make it work from a practical point of view, while also making the space feel homely and inviting. A well thought out lighting scheme can help you strike the right balance between function and atmosphere.
Lighting is classified into three main types: ambient lighting, which is the overall amount of light available in a room; task lighting, which is targeted lighting for carrying out specific tasks; and accent lighting, which is used for highlighting certain features and adding atmosphere.
Even in an open plan space, each area within that space will have its own specific lighting needs.
2) Create a focal point with pendant lights
Pendant lights are a great choice in an open plan space, where walls and other fixing points can be in short supply…. They come in a vast range of different styles and materials, and will provide plenty of good ambient and task lighting, while also creating an eye-catching focal point.
In an open plan kitchen area, a striking designer pendant light suspended from the ceiling will help to lift the eye upwards, while making a proper style statement.
3) Add some atmosphere with lamps and wall lights
While pendant lights provide great overhead lighting, you can bring in other layers of lighting to create a more cosy, relaxing vibe within your open plan space.
Downlighters can help to create a more intimate feeling within a larger space. For example, a set of wall lights in the dining area, or on either side of the sofa in the living area, will create an ambient glow and will help to frame the space.
Meanwhile, some decorative table lamps set strategically around the living area will offer warm, lower-level light.
4) Highlight key features with accent lighting
Accent lighting can help to add depth and interest within an open plan space, by drawing attention to a particular area or emphasising a specific set of features.
Floor lamps are another very effective way of accentuating an area or feature within an open plan space; indeed, some floor lamps are like works of art in their own right! In the living area, a pair of traditional matching floor lamps will frame a period fireplace beautifully. Or for some drama in the dining area, suspend a striking standalone floor lamp over the dining table, to add that extra bit of character and interest.
5) Use lighting to bring the space together
As well as helping to define the different zones within your open plan space, your lighting scheme can also help to unify the area as a whole. That stops your open plan space feeling too chaotic or mish-mashy (unless you like that sort of thing, of course!).
So when choosing your light fittings you can consider the existing style and decor. Think about fittings that complement the overall feel of the space, whether you have an uber-modern city pad or a traditional country cottage.
Another way to provide unity is to use your lighting to create a consistent theme that runs throughout – perhaps by using lampshades with colour accents, or using similar styles of lighting across the space.
Product links recommended above:
Nordic Abstract Waven Shape LED Pendant Lighting, 5 Color
Conical Aplomb Colorful Concrete Pendant Light
Mingli Vintage Tiffany Table Lamp Stained Glass Cordless Adjust, 14 Styles
Conical Aplomb Colorful Concrete Pendant Light
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