Tips to Create Ambient Lighting

Warm, cozy and soft – three words that describe the perfect atmosphere! Ambient lighting helps homeowners create these comfortable and relaxed settings. From bathrooms and living rooms to sun porches and breakfast nooks, create a natural look with soft lighting. Here are some tips to create the warm lighting you want for certain rooms in your home.

Color Temperature

Bridge lamp in living roomThe key to achieving an ambient atmosphere starts with the right lights. You might have heard the term “color temperature” used to describe lighting. Measured in degrees Kelvin, color temperature indicates whether the light appears warm (yellow) or cool (blue).

The lower the Kelvin number, the warmer the lighting. To create a soft and warm environment, choose LED light bulbs with a color temperature of 2,200 – 2,900 degrees Kelvin.

Exploit Natural Light

There’s no feeling quite like the warmth of the sun. The more you allow to stream inside, the better! Rooms with large windows that face east, west or south will capture natural light the best, so you can achieve soft lighting during the day without any energy consumption.

Add Wall Sconces

In certain rooms of your home, the general illumination may be too strong or bright to create the relaxing atmosphere you desire. For instance, a living room with recessed lighting or a large crystal chandelier. Our vintage restored wall sconces add another layer of subtle light and create the soft glow you want to read or watch a movie.

Use Table & Floor Lamps

Table and floor lamps offer the versatility you need to seamlessly change the look and feel of a room. They are best used for task and accent lighting, but it’s the lampshades that play a key role in creating a cozy ambience.

Depending on the type of material, different amounts of light will filter through different shades. For instance, a white or off-white fabric will make the room brighter.

Lampshades are easily switched out, so you have more control over the lighting in a room at any given time. Available in a variety of styles, you’re sure to find a vintage table or floor lamp at Restoration Lighting Gallery that complements your existing decor.

Use Dimmers

Control the amount of light emitted from all your fixtures, including chandeliers, table lamps and track lighting. One subtle change can make a huge difference to the look and feel of any room! Create the ambient atmosphere you desire with dimmers from our sister store, Connecticut Lighting Centers.
 
Restoration Lighting Gallery has everything you need to create an ideal ambience, from antique and vintage restored lighting to unique home accents. To get started, visit our gallery in Hartford today!