Light up your life!

Downlights

Downlights are most commonly used in large living spaces and functional areas like the kitchen and bathroom as the multiple fittings provide an even ambient light. Another place they are popping up is in the bedroom, especially in contemporary homes. A must when installing them here is to put them on a dimmer switch so you can control the light level. You won’t always want them on full brightness! Also pick warm white globes, which are less harsh than the cool white alternative.

Pendant lights

After spending a few years in the wilderness when halogen downlights were all the rage, pendant lights have come roaring back into fashion. More a work of art than a means to see by, pendants are popular statement pieces in an entry or stairway, over a dining table or in a set over a kitchen bar to add a sculptural element to that room. They’ve also made their way into the bathroom where they are used singly or in clusters around the vanity.

Lamps

Lamps combine both form and function into one fitting. During the day the body and shade of the lamp adds to the décor of a room, while at night they can be both task and mood lighting. In task lighting mode, think of the lamp by the bed or couch as you curl up with a book. Stand further away and the lamp can help influence the mood. The pools of light reflected off the ceiling bring a soft, cosy glow to the room.

LED strip lighting

With these narrow ribbons, you can add lighting to places never before possible, and create stunning effects in the process. In the kitchen or bathroom they’re great for invisible task lighting over the benchtop or vanity but they come into their own in places where you would never expect lighting to come from. Put then under a balustrade to light a set of steps, under a floating bathroom vanity for a space age feel or in a ceiling alcove for hidden ambient lighting.