Have you ever noticed how the lighting in a room can instantly influence your mood? The cozy, soft glow at an intimate candlelit dinner. The bright, energizing lights in a busy office or retail store. The warm, intense sunlight at a photographer’s golden hour photo shoot. The dust-specked bluish beam of light coming through your window on a cloudy day. 

Light plays a big role in shaping our emotions, mood, productivity, and well-being. In this article, we’ll explore more about how lighting and mood are related, and how you can use light to feel your absolute best.

Feeling Tired? The Science of Light and Sleep

Imagine waking up to a vivid sunrise, feeling invigorated, motivated, and ready to conquer the day. This comes from light’s impact on our internal body clock, known as the circadian rhythm. The natural light we are exposed to during the day helps regulate our sleep-wake patterns and, in turn, our mood and energy levels. In the mornings, sunlight has a cool, almost bluish hue. At midday, sunlight is a truer white. In the evenings, sunlight has warm, almost orange hue. This transition from cool to warm throughout the day is hardwired into our brains – and helps our body know when its time to wake up, and when it’s time to get ready for bed.

Artificial lighting, if properly aligned with our circadian rhythms, can mimic the many benefits of natural light. This is important since the majority of us spend much of our waking hours indoors under various types of artificial light. The most important thing to remember if you want a good night’s sleep, is to avoid light sources that give off cool, blue light for a couple of hours before bed. This “morning” light will trick your brain, and inhibit melatonin production making it harder to get to sleep. Use light bulbs with warmer light in your bedroom, and turn off the screens (phones and tvs give off blue light too!). Nothing boosts your mood faster than a good night’s sleep!

Feeling Down? The Science of Lighting and Mood

Sunlight is the gold standard for lighting. Natural sunlight influences mood by releasing and regulating different hormones and chemicals in our bodies, including melatonin and serotonin. Maximizing exposure to natural light in your living and work spaces is proven to have a positive impact on your mood. Studies have shown a strong link between exposure to sunlight and a boosted mood. Exposure to bright, natural, or natural-like lighting is linked to reduced symptoms of depression and improved mood. While sunlight isn’t necessarily a cure for low mood – making time to be in it can certainly help you to feel a little less down, especially during those darker winter months that can trigger seasonal depression. 

Natural lighting isn’t always available, of course, and this is where artificial light comes in to save the day! Just as the temperature of light can affect your sleep cycle, it also plays a part in your mood and the emotions you feel. Warm light (yellow and orange hues) creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere and increases relaxation and comfort. Cool light (bluish tones) is energizing and can promote focus and alertness. Generally, the goal is to balance warm and cool lighting to cater to different settings and activities.

How to Choose the Right Light:

Lighting at Home

Lighting in your home is about more than just practicality. Lighting helps you create a space that is welcoming and supports your emotional well-being. Your home is your safe space and your sanctuary. Soft, warm lighting in living spaces and bedrooms creates a sense of relaxation and tranquility. Dimming lights in the evening can tell the body to unwind, supporting better sleep. In contrast, bright, cool lights are incredibly helpful in areas where you need to stay focused and alert, like a kitchen food prep counter, a garage workshop, or a home office. 

In multi-use spaces, it’s especially important to layer your light. For example, a large great room with layered light could have cool white recessed lights in the ceiling on a dimmer switch, a large window with blinds for natural light, and lamps placed in strategic areas with warmer bulbs. By adjusting light levels and sources, you’ll be able to create a mix that feels right for any activity, and transition seamlessly from homework at the kitchen table to a movie night in the living room. 

In outdoor areas, like a patio or yard, opt for warm lights to create a comfortable, cozy atmosphere for your late-night BBQs. Cool lights work well for security lights, or for areas where you need to see clearly to be safe, like stairs or a walking path with uneven levels, a basketball court, grilling area, or storage shed. Whenever possible, choose fixtures that direct light downward to prevent light pollution – the best night lights around are the stars! 

Pro Tip: You may want to consider investing in smart LED bulbs. While they cost more upfront, they are incredibly energy efficient (meaning a lower power bill), and many can be either manually adjusted or programmed on a timer to go from cool to warm light throughout the day.

Lighting at Work

As a general rule, bright, cool lighting in workplaces can improve productivity and concentration. Research suggests that daylight-like lighting in office settings enhances job satisfaction and reduces fatigue. In addition, incorporating warm lighting in break areas can reduce stress by creating a more relaxing space for employees. Always remember to keep your employee’s needs in mind, and whenever possible ask for feedback. For example, fluorescent lighting ticks the boxes for bright and cool, but it can also cause headaches. An office workspace in a high-stress industry might do well with cool light (to boost productivity) OR warm light (to ease stress levels), depending on the needs of the people that will be in that space.

If you work from home, the same principles can be applied to your home office. Make sure your office has plenty of cool, bright light for those days when you need to be laser focused. Add in a warmer light source like a desk lamp for stressful days or late-night work marathons.

Pro Tip: Another proven mood-booster in the workspace is the addition of plants. Find varieties that will flourish with the lighting conditions in your space, and add a few around the office.

Creating Your Ideal Lighting Environment:

• Know Your Needs – Figure out the main purpose of each space, and determine how you need to feel while you’re there. Tailor the lighting accordingly to ensure the space will meet your mental and emotional needs while you complete tasks in the area.
• Choose the Right Bulbs – Light bulb tech has come a long way. Choose bulbs with color temperatures that match your goals, or invest in smart lighting systems that allow you to change your lighting settings throughout the day as your needs change. Remember to be flexible, you might end up trying a couple different light temperatures before you find the best one. 
• Use Dimmers and Controls –  Whenever possible, install dimmers to control the intensity of your lighting. Adjusting the lighting levels can help you create the desired ambiance for any occasion and “set the mood” to help improve your mood!  
• Maximize Natural Light –  Arrange your furniture and decor to maximize natural light exposure. If you have limited window space, light-colored walls and furniture or wall art with reflective surfaces can help to bounce that coveted natural light around your rooms.

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The connection between lighting and mood is an interesting mix of science and psychology. Whether it’s nurturing warm hues or energizing cool tones, the quality and type of light in our surroundings truly affects our mood and emotions. With the right information in hand, you can thoughtfully create spaces that elevate, rejuvenate, relax, and inspire. So, next time you turn on a light, remember that you’re not just lighting up a room – you’re boosting your mood too!

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Need more bright ideas for the lighting in your home? Contact us today to chat with an expert! 

The only constant in life is change, and as we near the mid 2020s, it’s quite interesting to see the trends that have come and gone in the past 4 years. Subway tile? Bye! Shiplap? See ya! Signs with words? Live, Love, No Thanks!

Interior design technology and trends move at a rapid pace these days, and with influencers and celebrities lending their talents and tastes to those of established interior designers, we’re seeing a wider range of design styles in homes – and that’s ideal, right? Just like your fashion sense, interior design is personal… and there’s nothing as boring as a bunch of cookie cutter houses that look exactly the same, inside and out. 

Here are a few of our favorite interior design styles to covet (and copy!) in 2024. 

 

 

Modern minimalism

Homeowners and renters are not yet ready to let the modern minimalist trend go, and for good reason. It’s comfortable without being cluttered, and bright without being sterile. Wood tones and natural textures live in harmony with matte blacks and crisp white walls, and greenery abounds.

Pendant lights with woven, ceramic, or paper shades provide a warm glow AND a dose of casual, inviting style. And while you may not find many knick-knacks filling the corners of modern minimalist homes, a lush plant in a beautiful pot is always welcome.

 

 

 

Biophilic

Homes built and decorated with biophilic design in mind foster a connection between humans and nature, by incorporating natural textures, shapes, patterns, and light. Many studies have suggested that humans are healthier, happier, and more productive when surrounded by nature – so it’s no surprise why biophilic design is growing in popularity. 

Whether it’s a Brooklyn flat or a Montana ranch, you’ll find tons of greenery in every part of the biophilic home (shower plants, anyone?), large windows to let in the natural light and air, and plenty of natural materials like rattan, wood, and linen. One key of biophilic design? It should be holistic– so one room with plants isn’t going to cut it. Each room should have its share of nature, be it a rattan light shade and Boston fern on a bedside table, or a wall of plants and a giant skylight in the kitchen. 

Have a black thumb? No worries – biophilic design is about bringing nature to all of your senses, so lean in to what works best for you. Whether it’s a focus on using natural materials, finding ways to maximize natural light, or adding a small fountain to recreate the sound of a bubbling brook, there are lots of ways to connect to the natural world that don’t involve daily watering. 

 

 

 

Maximalism

On the other end of the spectrum from minimalist design is the fun, festive, interior design style of maximalism! Made popular by interior designers like Justina Blakeney, maximalism isn’t afraid to mix colors, patterns, textures and styles into one convivial home that brings joy and doesn’t take itself too seriously. To ensure things look magical but not messy – choose a common thread to weave throughout (like in the room above, mustard yellow!)

Your lighting options in a maximalist home are endless, with pendants, sconces, and lamps in every hue and texture you can dream up. Go for a gold dining pendant in the shape of an agave, or a glittery oversized capiz chandelier in the hall. Maximalism says “why not?!” to all things bold and beautiful. 

 

 

 

Brutalism

Vogue calls brutalism “a movement about honesty” and we can see why – in a brutalist home, there’s nothing to hide! Some might find brutalist interior design and architecture to be intimidating or, as the name says, brutal. But you’d be amazed how inviting and warm it can be! Brutalist homes embrace much of what makes minimalism shine, while utilizing industrial materials like concrete, and embracing hard lines and corners. In a brutalist home, furniture and decor are sparse, simple, and rugged – but a quick Google search shows how truly beautiful brutalism can be.

When it comes to lighting, ceramic, metal, and concrete fixtures reign supreme. Brutalist style chandeliers, sconces, and table lamps  are as impressive as they are functional, and when walls and floors serve as a blank slate, lighting has an opportunity to truly shine.  

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Curious about maximalism or biophilic design? Consider choosing lighting fixtures that allow you to sample the feel of these styles in your home without a complete overhaul. An airy woven reed pendant light or a bold metallic chandelier are minor (easily reversible!) additions that can make a big impact on a home.

No matter your personal tastes, it’s always exciting and fun to watch where interior design is headed, and to bring in elements of any (or all) that make your home feel more you.  Stop by a showroom today to check out lighting fixtures in every style you can imagine – and let a lighting expert help you find the perfect on-trend light for your home!

 

If you’ve ever shopped for ceiling fans, more than likely you’ve run across a new few terms and acronyms. Don’t fall into the trap of ignoring the specs and shopping for looks alone – CFM is an important term to understand before you decide on your next ceiling fan.

What is CFM?

CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute, which is a measurement that tells you how many cubic feed or air pass by a point in one minute. For ceiling fans, the CFM will tell you how much air a fan can move, or how “windy” it will feel at its highest speed. You’ll also see CFM referred to as “Max Airflow”.

There are a few things that can impact a fan’s CFM, including the motor and the number, pitch (or angle), and length of the fan’s blades. The most important thing to remember is that the higher the CFM, the more air the fan will move.

How much CFM do I need?

Generally speaking, a ceiling fan with a CFM over 4,000 should be enough for your needs, but a CFM over 6,000 is better. Some brands call fans with a CFM over 7,000 high airflow and over 9,000 CFM extreme airflow. 

This gets more complicated when you take into account the size of the room and the height of the ceiling. A small bedroom with 8 foot ceilings will be fine with a fan with lower CFM, and a large great room with vaulted ceilings will need to have a fan with much higher CFM in order to move enough air to feel it throughout the space. 

Because fan and motor designs vary by the fan and the brand, the best way to know for sure if you’re getting a ceiling fan that will work well for your room is to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for room size. 

CFM and Energy Efficiency

CFM is a useful measurement on its own, but it’s also a the key ingredient for figuring out how efficient your ceiling fan is. If you don’t pay attention to efficiency, you could accidentally end up with a fan that uses a lot of energy, costing you more money to use than you realised until it’s too late. An energy efficient fan will move more air using less energy, meaning you can keep your room cool without an unexpected spike in your power bill. 

To determine the efficiency of a fan you have to do a little bit of math. Airflow efficiency is CFM divided by the watts (or energy) used to power the fan at its highest speed. For example, a ceiling fan with 4,000 CFM that uses 80 watts will have an airflow efficiency score of 50 (4,000 / 80 = 50). 

Generally speaking, a ceiling fan with an airflow efficiency of 75 is considered efficient, but this can vary depending on the size of the fan. One of the easiest ways for consumers to tell if a fan will be energy efficient is to look for the Energy Star logo on the packaging. Any ceiling fan with an Energy Star endorsement will be much more efficient than conventional fans, which will save you money in the long run.

To see a breakdown of how Energy Star uses fan size and CFM to determine whether or not a fan is eligible for an Energy Star rating, check out these graphs. If energy efficiency is a goal for your ceiling fan search, you can also browse ceiling fans on our website, and filter by Energy Star to see only fans with an Energy Star certification. 

 

In short, CFM is a measurement that tells you how much air a fan moves at its highest speed. How much CFM you need from a fan depends a lot on the room its in – the overall size, the usage, the ceiling height, etc. While CFM isn’t the only statistic on the box that matters when shopping for a fan, it’s definitely an important number to consider – especially how it relates to energy efficiency and the amount of money you’ll spend using your fan over the years. Need help finding a ceiling fan? Our lighting experts can help you find exactly what you need at Super Lite.

 

Lampshades may seem like a small detail in interior design, but they can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of a room. Whether it’s a table or floor lamp, or even a sconce or pendant, choosing the right shade is important. The shade you choose needs to do more than just complement your décor, its shape and opacity will play an important role in how effective your lamp will be at creating the right kind of light for the space. In this article, we dive into 7 popular lampshade options, and provide you with insights that will help you determine what type of shade will best suit your needs.

The Basics

Lampshades come in a wide variety of shapes, and knowing their names will help you to narrow down your search results as you shop. But before we dive into the shapes and names, it’s important to understand a couple of basic details about how shades affect your light. The shade on a lamp impacts the quantity, direction, and color of the light that emanates from the fixture. 

Quantity

Opacity matters when it comes to lampshades. Some shades are made from a solid materials like ceramic that lets little to no light shine through. Many are made from fabrics or frosted or etched glass that allow varying levels of light to filter through. Others are made of fully transparent materials like plastic or glass that allow all of the light through. Understanding your needs for the space will help you to determine what to choose. 

For example: An opaque lampshade may be the best choice for lamps at eye level to avoid glare and eye strain. A light filtering shade is an excellent choice for ambient or mood lighting to create a soft, comfortable glow. Clear shades are perfect for places that need lots of light, like a desk, workspace, or kitchen.

Direction

The shape of a shade will impact where the light can shine. The more opaque a shade is, the more important it is for you to be aware of the direction it will direct the light. A fully opaque shade will direct all light out the openings, and many have a reflective surface on the interior to maximize the amount of light leaving the shade. These shades help you to shine light where you want it, and nowhere else. Semi-opaque, light-filtering, and transparent shades will allow light to shine in all directions (although brightness levels will vary), so directionality is less important for these shades unless they’re being used as task lighting, in which case you’ll still want to be sure the opening on the shade is directed towards your work or desk space. 

Color

Swapping out a lampshade can make an old lamp feel brand new, but it can also have unintended consequences on the way the rest of the room looks. The color of the light on the bulb will take on some of the color of the shade. This can change the way colors look in your room on everything from the furniture to the paint on your walls. You can combat this a little bit by changing the color of the bulb you use if you find a shade you love, but neutrals are usually the safest route if you want to avoid unexpected color clashes. 

With these basics in mind, let’s dive into seven of the most popular lampshade shapes!

Drum Lampshades 

Drum lampshades are one of the most common and versatile options available right now. They feature a cylindrical shape with equal diameter at the top and bottom, creating a clean, minimalistic, modern look. Drum lampshades give off soft and even ambient light in all directions which makes them a great choice for many spaces. Drum shades look great on most base types – from dainty to sculptural. It’s hard to go wrong with this popular option!

Empire Lampshades

With a narrower top and a wider bottom, empire lampshades are the go-to choice for those looking to give an elegant and traditional look to their space. That said, they can also fit into a more modern aesthetic when styled correctly and paired with the right base. Empire lampshades direct light downward, making them an ideal choice if you are looking for task lighting next to a cozy chair or at your desk. 

Square and Rectangular Lampshades

Unconventional yet stylishly chic, rectangular and square lampshades are perfect for adding a contemporary twist to your décor. These lampshades can make a bold statement, so they are perfect for those looking for a focal point in their room. Their shape allows the lamp to sit closer to the wall than circular shades, which means they work especially well on narrow surfaces like console tables and smaller nightstands. 

Bell Lampshades

Like their namesake, bell lampshades feature a flared base with a narrower top. These shades provide a touch of elegance and sophistication. They are most often used in traditional or vintage-inspired interiors. Due to their shape, bell lampshades cast a soft, subdued light. This makes them a wonderful choice for a warm, inviting living room or cozy bedroom corner. 

Dome Lampshades

Dome lampshades are simple yet elegant. They are an unexpected choice that can lean vintage, modern, or futuristic, depending on how they are styled. They are best paired with a thin, dainty base. Reminiscent of the domed cap of a mushroom, these are often a popular choice in biophilic designs as well. Dome lampshades direct light downward while also spreading it gently to the sides. They offer a balanced combination of ambient and task lighting, making them a great fit for most spaces. 

Globe Lampshades 

Globe lampshades are spherical and completely encase the light source, creating a gentle and diffused illumination. Since the light is cast in all directions, globe lampshades do not cast a harsh shadow or glare but rather create a warm, ambient lighting perfect for living spaces, dining rooms, and bedrooms. 

Coolie Lampshades

These lampshades have a distinct slanted shape that directs light downward, making them great for task lighting, such as desk lamps. While the shape of this shade is similar to the Empire shade, Coolie shades have a much larger difference between the top and bottom diameters, giving them a more distinctive slant. The unique shape of this shade fits especially well into retro, eclectic, and industrial-inspired spaces, and they make for an interesting centerpiece wherever they are placed.  

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Selecting the right lampshade for your space can be as simple as choosing the one that you like the best on the shelf, but if you want to truly do your lamp (and your room) justice, take an extra minute and consider the opacity, color, and shape of your shade, and how it will impact the way the light shines in your space. With just a little extra bit of understanding, you can create a well-lit and visually appealing environment that reflects your personality and enhances the atmosphere of your home. So, go ahead and shed light on your style with the perfect lampshade!

You don’t have to do it alone! For help finding the perfect shade, stop by our showroom and let the experts at Super Lite help you find exactly what you need, without the hassle. 

 

If you’re building, renovating, or just ready for a change in lighting, there’s nothing worse than spending hours researching and choosing a light fixture, only to get it home and find out that a measurement got missed somewhere along the way and it won’t work the way you wanted.

Before you buy, read and bookmark this article for quick reference. When you’re armed with the best information, you’ll make the best choices. 

And remember, the very best way to get your information right from the get-go is to ask a lighting expert – so don’t skip the trip to your local lighting showroom! They’ll be able to help you avoid any common mistakes and help you get what you want right from the start.

Understanding Light Output

You’ll want to get familiar with a couple of vocab words before jumping in. 

• Watts: The amount of energy or electricity a bulb uses. Has nothing to do with brightness.
• Foot Candles: The amount of perceivable light from a fixture at one foot away.
• Lumens: The amount of overall light given off by a light source. Has nothing to do with power consumption.

How These Terms Relate To Each Other

Comparing a fixture or bulb’s wattage and lumens will show its efficiency. A bulb with low wattage and high lumens uses less power to generate more light, meaning it will cost less to light your home. 

Not all rooms are created equal – bedrooms generally need less light than a kitchen. To determine how many lumens you need, multiply the square footage of the space by the foot candle recommendation. For example, a typical 300 sqft bedroom will need around 3000-6000 lumens in total. [Sqft of room x min and max foot candles = Total min and max lumens needed]

This total includes all types of light in the room, from ceiling fixtures to lamps to sunlight. For best results, you never want to have all of the light in a room come from a single source. A great lighting plan considers the times of day the room will be used, accent lighting like reading lamps, and activities that happen in the room. If your room can transition perfectly from busy daytime work to a relaxed evening at home, then you’ve nailed it.   

 

Universal Standard Measurements

While most fixtures have their own set of standard measurements for placement and sizing, there are a handful of things that are universal. For brevity’s sake, we’ve put those things here rather than repeating them for each fixture. 

• Height and Head Clearance: Keep at least 7’ of clearance between the bottom of the fixture and the floor. If there is any chance that a hanging fixture could be in the way, especially in places like hallways and stairs, raise the fixture a bit more to avoid accidents. Vaulted or high ceilings may need more clearance between the fixture and the floor to look balanced. Lower fixtures will make a room feel more intimate, while higher fixtures are less noticeable (which is sometimes the goal).
• Door Clearance: If you’re installing a fixture near a door, keep 6” of clearance between the bottom of the fixture and the top of the door.
• Weight Limit: Modern standard ceiling light boxes are manufactured to hold up to 50 pounds when installed correctly. It’s important to check the weight of your fixture and the structure of your ceiling before installing any ceiling fan or a fixture over 35 pounds. Installing the extra support doesn’t usually cost much – and it’s way cheaper than paying for damages if an improperly supported fixture falls.
• Dining Table: The max width of a light fixture over a dining table should be around 1/2-3/4 the width of the table. The bottom of the fixture should be just above your seated eye level so that it doesn’t obstruct the view – usually about 30-36” from the table surface. Always center the fixture over the table, not in the center of the room. [table width x ½ and ¾ = min and max fixture width]
• Great Rooms and Multi-Purpose Rooms: You’ll want to consider all angles when choosing fixtures for rooms with multiple uses. For example, many great rooms have a dining room between the kitchen and living room. You’ll still want to follow standard dining fixture recommendations to start – but you’ll also need to hang your fixture high enough to avoid glare and an obstructed view while standing and using the rest of the space.

Standard Measurements by Fixture

Standard measurements will work well in almost every home, but there’s always room to bend the rules a little for a fixture you love or in a unique space. For rooms or areas not mentioned, refer to the general standards and/or rooms with similar uses.

FLUSH AND SEMI-FLUSH LIGHTS

• General Sizing: Add the length and width of the room in feet together, then record that number in inches to determine the best width for a ceiling fixture. For example, a 10’x20’ living room can accommodate a 30” wide ceiling fixture. (This formula works well for most ceiling-mounted lights, not including fixtures like ceiling fans and recessed lights.) [room length in feet + room width in feet = optimal ambient fixture width in inches (no conversion, just change the units)]
• General Placement: Flush and semi-flush lights are generally installed in the center of a room, or over the center of a specific-use area like a dining table. Flush mounts work best in rooms with standard ceiling heights at 8’, and may feel dim if installed on a tall ceiling. Semi-flush lights hang down from the ceiling, and work great in rooms with 9-10’ ceilings. 
• Bathroom: It’s best to maintain 8’ between the top of the bathtub and the bottom of a fixture. Flush mounts are a great choice for ambient lighting in a bathroom, but they don’t work well as the only light in a bathroom, as they can create shadows on the face. For best use in the bathroom, combine your ceiling fixture with a pendant or sconce near the mirror.

PENDANTS 

• General Sizing: For single pendants, the same room length in feet + room width in feet = fixture width in inches formula from above works well. For grouped pendants, sizing depends largely on personal preference and the available space for installation. 
• General Spacing: When hanging multiple pendants, the minimum spacing between them should be about 18”. For larger pendants, the recommended minimum spacing is equal to the diameter of the pendants. For example, 20” wide pendants should be hung at a minimum of 20” apart.
• Kitchen Island: There are many ways to hang pendants over an island, and there isn’t one hard-and-fast set of rules. Here are a few guidelines to consider:
  • For islands up to 6’ wide, the max is usually two pendants, but you can sometimes get away with three small pendants if you prefer that look. For islands over 6’ wide, many homeowners choose to use three or more pendants to maximize light coverage across the countertop.
  • To determine how far away from the edge of the island pendants should be, divide the diameter of the pendant in half. For example, the side of 18” pendants should be a minimum of  9” away from the edge of the island. [pendant width / 2 = recommended distance from pendant to edge of island]
  • A large, single pendant should not exceed 2/3 of the island’s width. For example, the widest you’d want to go on a pendant over a 6’ island is about 48”. [total island width x ⅔ = max pendant width]
• Sinks and Counters: The standard distance from the counter for a pendant is 30-40” but 36” and above is best. When using pendants for task lighting, choose a fixture that allows the light to shine in the right place – a pendant with a solid bottom won’t light a counter very well.
• Bedroom: As a reading light above a bedside table, aim for the lighted portion of the pendant to be about 55-60” above the floor or 30-36” above the mattress. 

CHANDELIERS

• General Sizing: To determine the ideal diameter, add the length and width of your room together in inches. For example, a 15×20 room would need a chandelier approximately 35” in diameter (15+20=35). To determine the ideal height of the fixture, plan on around 2-3” of height for each foot of ceiling height. For example, in a home with 8’ ceilings, a chandelier should be about 16-24” tall (8×2=16, 8×3=24). A two-story foyer in that home can easily support a chandelier that’s 32-48” tall (16×2=32, 16×3=48). [room length in feet + room width in feet = optimal chandelier width in inches (no conversion, just change the units)], [ceiling height in feet x 2 and 3 = min and max chandelier height]
• General Placement: Chandeliers are a bold design choice intended to stand out and make a statement. They’re almost always placed in the center of a room, or centered over a part of a room with a specific use, like a dining table or a clawfoot bathtub.
• Dining Table: In a room with 8’ ceilings, the standard height is about 30-36” above the table, then add 3” for every foot over 8’ in ceiling height. Always center the chandelier over the table, not in the center of the room.
• Two-story foyer: Keep the bottom of the chandelier above the height of the first floor.

SCONCES

• General Sizing: When it comes to sizing and scale, there isn’t a great universal formula here – it’s left largely up to personal preference and a good eye. A good rule of thumb for sconces is this: The closer you’ll be standing to look at whatever the sconce is lighting, the smaller the sconce should be. 
• General Placement: Sconces are usually placed around eye level, around 60-72” from the floor. In rooms with higher ceilings, 66-72” will feel more balanced. Take into consideration the style of the fixture – a sconce with a bare bulb will feel more comfortable a bit above eye level, whereas a sconce with a shade will feel more comfortable if the shade is at eye level to avoid catching the glare of the bulb from under or above the shade.
• Dining Room: Because people will be seated for the majority of the time, sconces should be hung slightly lower in the dining room – closer to 60” from the floor.
• Bathroom: Sconces work best placed on either side of the mirror at eye level, around 4-12” away from the edges depending on the look you’re after and where the electrical boxes can be installed. Sconces can also be centered above the mirror at just above eye level, usually between 60-70” off the floor. 
• Bedroom: As a reading light above a bedside table, aim for about 55-60” above the floor or 30-36” above the mattress. 
• Porch, Patio, Doors: When choosing a sconce to go near an exterior door, look for one that is 1/4 – 1/3 of the height of the door. For example, the most common standard door height is 80”. To determine the best sconce size, 80” ÷ 4 = 20” and 80” ÷ 3 = 26.6’ tell us to look for a sconce that is around 20-26” tall. Generally speaking, outdoor sconces should be positioned at around 66-72” above the ground at the center of the light. You can fudge the high end a little for extra tall spaces, but going above 72” isn’t usually recommended. [height of exterior door x ¼ and ⅓ = min and max of sconce]
• Garage: The best practice is to put a sconce on either side of every garage door, with the bottom of the fixture around 1’ from the top of the garage door. With this configuration, opt for fixtures that are 1/4 – 1/3 of the height of the door. For example, an 8’ garage door will look best with sconces that are 24”-32” (96” ÷ 4 = 24” and 96” ÷ 3 = 32”). When hanging lights centered over the garage doors instead, be sure that the fixtures are large enough to light the full width of the driveway. [height of garage door x ¼ and ⅓ = min and max of sconce]

RECESSED LIGHTS

• General Sizing: Standard recessed lighting is typically 4-6” wide. 6” lights are the most common and are most often used for general lighting. 4” and 5” lights are often used for task or accent lighting, such as providing extra light over a kitchen counter. 
• General Placement for Ambient Lighting: The number of lights you’ll need will vary greatly depending on the size and brightness of the lights, the size of the room, and the height of the ceiling. The formulas below will get you a good rough estimate, but it’s usually a good idea to stop in at a lighting showroom and check in with an expert when planning a recessed light layout. There are a lot of things to consider, and recessed lighting is difficult to move after the fact if you run into an issue. 
  • Amount – A good place to start is to multiply the room’s square footage by the recommended foot candles to calculate the total lumens you’ll need. Then, divide the total lumens by the lumen output of the recessed lights you want to use. For example, for a 300 sqft bedroom, requiring 10-20 foot candles, using 370-lumen lights, you’ll want to stick to around 8-16 lights (300 x 10 ÷ 370 = 8.1) and (300 x 20 ÷ 370 = 16.2). [room sqft x min and max foot candles = total lumens min and max], [total lumens min and max / one light’s lumen output = min and max number of lights needed]
  • Spacing – It’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation, but a good rule of thumb for planning is to divide the ceiling height in half to determine how far apart the lights should be. Divide that number in half again to determine how far away from the wall the lights should be. For example, in a room with 8’ ceilings, space your lights about 4’ apart and 2’ from the wall. [ceiling height / 2 = distance between lights, distance between lights / 2 = distance from wall]
  • Zoning – If you have a room that serves multiple purposes (like a great room or a living room with a home office nook), measure and map out each area separately when planning your overall layout.
  • Existing fixtures – It’s very common for a room to have a grid of recessed lights in addition to a statement fixture like a chandelier or a ceiling fan. You’ll want to plan around the fixture location and take its light into account.
  • Furniture – A bright recessed light directly above a couch can feel uncomfortable and create shadows. In these situations, try to place lights around the perimeter and in the middle of the room to help with glare.
  • Dimmer switch – Sometimes a grid of overhead recessed lights can feel a little harsh. We always recommend installing a dimmer switch for your lights so that you can always feel comfortable in your space.
• General Placement for Task or Accent Lighting: Recessed lights are also used for supplemental lighting in places where that need a bit more light, like over a kitchen counter, a piano, a reading nook, etc. Place these accent lights based on where you need the light, but choose carefully – you want your task lighting to shine on your task rather than on your head or in your eyes. Some recessed lights can be angled, which makes getting the light in just the right spot a bit easier.

CEILING FANS

• General Sizing: Ceiling fan sizes are measured by the diameter of the blades, or the blade span. The size fan you need is determined by the size of the space it needs to cool. An undersized fan will feel weak and underwhelming, but a fan that’s too large can turn a room into a wind tunnel. Size recommendations can vary a little depending on the manufacturer, but this chart will give you a general idea of what size fan you’ll need:

• General Placement: For 8’ ceilings and lower, you’ll need a flush mount or hugger fan that attaches directly to the ceiling to keep the required 7’ minimum clearance to the floor. You also need at least 8” of clearance between the blades and the ceiling for optimal airflow. For ceilings over 8’, look for a ceiling fan with a downrod, which will drop the fan away from the ceiling. Aim to have your ceiling fan around 8-9’ above the floor for the best airflow.
• Airflow Efficiency and CFM: Cubic Feet per Minute refers to the amount of air moved per cubic foot that a ceiling fan can move in one minute at its highest setting. The higher the CFM, the more air a fan moves. To determine the efficiency of a fan, divide a fan’s CFM by the Watts. An efficiency score of 75 is the minimum requirement to label a fan as energy efficient. [CFM / Watts = Airflow Efficiency]

TABLE LAMPS

• General Sizing: Measure the height of the furniture the lamp will be on. Aim for a lamp that’s around ⅔ the height of the furniture, and avoid going above 1.5 times the height. (You may want to go smaller for lamps placed on taller furniture to avoid glare.) The widest part of the lamp and shade should be smaller than the width of the furniture. [best standard lamp height = table height x ⅔]
• General Placement: Best practice with table lamps states that the lamp should be at about eye level when you’re near it. For lamps near couches and chairs, that’s typically around 58-64”. Whether you spend most of your time sitting or standing in a room, the bottom of the shade should be around eye level to avoid accidental glare above or below the shade.

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Don’t get stuck in the muck – if you’re planning a lighting project, save the stress and stop by our showroom. All we do is lighting – and we do it right. You’ll get free expert advice and access to thousands of fixtures – and customer service that you just can’t beat at a big-box store or shopping online. Skip the headache, and stop on by. We’ll see you soon!

Lighting a commercial building isn’t a simple task. The needs of a business are often complex, and meeting those needs requires a solid understanding of how light works in a commercial space. Much like a business plan has several objectives, a commercial lighting plan typically has several objectives or goals.

Common Goals for Commercial Lighting

• Increased productivity, performance, and morale of workers
• Safety of employees and customers
• Comfort and ambiance
• Smooth transitions from space to space
• Cost savings on utility bills
• Branding and cohesiveness

To achieve all of your goals simultaneously, your best bet is to consult with a lighting expert with a thorough understanding of the best practices for commercial lighting in your area. But before you do, it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the basics of commercial lighting.

Know How Much Light You Need

First, consider usage. Factory work zones will have very different lighting requirements from restaurant dining areas. Areas where detailed or dangerous work will be done need brighter light for accuracy and safety. Always remember to refer to your industry’s regulations regarding commercial lighting as a part of your planning.

Light recommendations for commercial spaces are given in foot-candles, which is a measure of the intensity of light. If you were to hang a single bulb in a room and measure foot-candles throughout the space, you’d find that the foot-candles are the highest directly under the bulb. You can even out light coverage and increase the overall intensity of the lighting by spreading several lights out across a space.

Light output for bulbs and fixtures is measured in lumens, with higher lumens correlating to more light. To determine how many lumens you need in a space, multiply the square footage by the foot-candle recommendation. For example, a 100sqft office, which needs 30-50 foot-candles, will require 3000-5000 lumens. Lumens are cumulative, meaning you can add the lumens for each fixture together to determine the overall lumens in a space. 

Commercial Foot-Candle* Recommendations

While these may vary a little depending on usage and safety requirements, these recommendations will get you to a good starting point that you can tweak if you want more or less light.

*Foot-Candles is an Imperial measurement. Lux is the Metric equivalent. To convert from Foot-Candles to Lux, multiply the foot-candles by 10.764. 1 foot-candle = 10.764 lux. 

Pay Attention to Durability 

The fixtures you choose need to be appropriate for the conditions in which they’ll be installed. Weather and humidity should be considered for outdoor spaces like patio dining, and indoor spaces like showers and laundry. In areas where a fixture could come into unwanted contact, such as gyms and classrooms, choosing fixtures with strong coverings that protect the bulbs is a must. Also, consider the amount of time the lights will be used each day – not all fixtures are designed to be on 24/7/365.

Use Consistent Light Temperature

The temperature, or color, of light (measured in Kelvins) significantly affects how a room, and the people in it, will feel. At lower Kelvins, light appears warm and yellow. Light at high Kelvins appears cool and blue. The temperature of the light you use needs to be consistent to avoid awkward and clashing transitions. A warm yellow bulb in a sea of bright white will look out of place. 

Natural light changes color throughout the day, from warm dawn to cool midday and warm dusk. Because of this our brains are wired to respond to light temperature, which is important to consider in a commercial setting. Cool light makes people feel more alert, awake, and focused – great for labs and workspaces. Warm light makes people feel relaxed and at ease – the perfect choice for creating a mood in a restaurant dining room. Warm light is also much easier on the eyes at night, which is something to consider for outdoor lighting (if you’ve ever driven past an electronic billboard at night and been blinded by the whites and blues, you’ll know what we mean!)

Determine the Type of Light

Light Layering is an important lighting design concept that references the need for light to come from several sources to make a space more comfortable and functional. Layering light is a universal trick, but it’s especially important for commercial spaces. 

The Basics

• General / Ambient Lighting – the overall light in a space, usually provided by overhead lighting.
• Task Lighting – additional lighting for areas where work is done, such as a desk lamp or a pendant hung over a countertop.
• Accent Lighting – decorative lighting focused on a particular area or object, often used to highlight architectural features, artwork, exhibits, etc.
• Direct Lighting – Light that shines directly from a fixture to an object or space. This type of lighting is perfect for illuminating important areas, but can cause headaches for employees that must work underneath them
• Indirect Lighting – Light that is diffused or reflected into a space. Indirect lighting generally lights larger areas with a softer (but not necessarily dimmer) light that is easy on the eyes.

An effective lighting plan should include a combination of the above types of light, coordinated to get the right light to the right places. This will “layer” light across the space. 

Other Things to Consider

• Natural Light – natural light is a mood and energy booster, so it’s important to include it whenever possible. It can also be counted as a light source, which means you can sometimes get away with using fewer lights during daylight hours.
• CRI – Short for the Color Rendering Index, CRI is a measure of a light’s ability to reveal the colors of objects. CRI is measured from 0 to 100 – lights with a CRI of 100 will show colors in their truest form, and lights with a CRI of 0 will make all colors look the same. In retail especially, it’s very important to have lighting with a high CRI to attract customers to displays and make products look their best. High-quality LEDs are typically the best option if CRI is important to your business. Aim for a CRI of 90-100.
• Bulb Type – The most popular bulbs for commercial use are LED – they’re energy-efficient, can be dimmable, and come in a wide range of color options. Fluorescent or CFL bulbs are also popular, but they’re not usually dimmable, and they often have a noticeable flicker that can give some people migraines. Halogen is another option commonly used in commercial lighting. An important thing to note is that halogen bulbs produce a lot of heat, and can be a fire hazard if the fixtures are installed near flammable materials. 
• Glare and Reflection: Light will bounce off reflective surfaces. You can use this to your advantage, and use mirrors or gloss finishes to help reflect light around a space. It can also be an issue if the light bounces in unintended directions, like into employees’ eyes as they work or through a window into traffic.

Energy Efficiency and Savings

Keeping the lights on costs money, but there are plenty of ways to save. Lights with dusk/dawn sensors keep lights off during the day and turn them on when it gets dark without you having to flip a switch. Lights with motion sensors are a great option for places with regular (but not constant) use, like exam rooms and restrooms, because they’ll only use power when the room is occupied. Smart lights can be programmed to turn off and on at a certain time of day. Many can be controlled remotely with an app, which makes them an attractive option for those long days when you can’t remember if you flipped the switch on the way out of the office.

As you shop for lighting, you may notice that some options have a blue Energy Star logo on the packaging. Energy Star is a U.S. government-backed organization that certifies fixtures and appliances that use less energy. The Energy Star certification makes it easy to identify options that will use less power, which will translate to a lower utility bill.

Always Consider Safety

The safety of customers and employees in a commercial environment is always one of the most important things to consider. Always check your industry’s laws and guidelines regarding safety requirements to be sure you’re in compliance. Some of the things you’ll want to use lighting to protect against include: accidents and falls, fire hazards, discomfort, crime, employee productivity, and emergencies.

Indoors, you’ll need to be sure that your exit signs and directional signage are in highly visible locations. Choose lighting that is both adequate for the work to be performed and comfortable for those that work in it. Poor lighting won’t just decrease productivity and make accidents more likely; it can also hurt morale and lower employee satisfaction. It’s also important to keep stairwells well-lit to prevent falls and deter crime in less visible areas. Replace old wiring and faulty fixtures to avoid fire hazards. 

Outdoors, be sure to light all areas regularly used from dusk to dawn, including walkways, paths, and parking areas. Ensure any trip hazards, such as stairs or a raised sidewalk, are well-lit to avoid accidents. Install adequate lighting around exterior entrances to keep employees safe while dealing with door locks. Motion sensor lights can also be a helpful crime deterrent near doors, windows, or important outdoor features. Always be sure that all outdoor fixtures and bulbs are rated for outdoor use.

Aesthetics Matter

After slogging through all of the requirements, recommendations, and acronyms, it can be easy to forget that aesthetics matter too – and they have a huge impact on your business! Lighting that looks good makes your business comfortable and memorable. Once you’ve met the safety requirements, it’s time to bring some life and character to your space.

Make Your Building Shine

When choosing lighting, pay attention to the style of the building. Match the finishes and styles of your fixtures to the building’s architecture as much as possible so they don’t feel out of place with the rest of the building. Use accent lighting to highlight beautiful features, like an original brick wall or a water fountain. 

Lighting and Branding

You can also use lighting to emphasize your branding! Don’t be afraid to go bold or playful with a statement lighting piece in your brand’s colors in the foyer. High CRI lighting around signage and branded decor like furniture or murals will keep your brand colors in sharp focus. Use accent lighting to spotlight things that matter to your brand, like a memorabilia collection, company history display, community outreach projects, employee recognition, etc. To really kick it up a notch, consider installing color-changing lights around the exterior of your building that can be lit up for holidays or with your brand colors for special occasions. 

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

The most important thing to remember with your commercial lighting needs is that you don’t have to do it alone. As a business owner, you understand the need to rely on subject matter experts for specialized tasks. You wouldn’t want your accountant to design your logo, and you shouldn’t rely on just anyone to get your lighting right. At Super Lite, we specialize in making homes and businesses shine – and we’re passionate about getting it right. For your next commercial lighting project, let us handle the heavy lifting. Check out our website, or give us a call and schedule a consultation. 

Creating a warm and inviting home environment involves careful consideration of various elements, with lighting being a key player. Any interior designer worth their salt will tell you that using several light sources rather than one (also called Layered Lighting) is foundational to a good design in any space. This is especially important for homeowners seeking to make their living spaces more sensory-friendly. 

The right lighting strategies can make a significant difference in ensuring that everyone will be comfortable in your home. In this blog post, we’ll explore how thoughtful lighting choices can enhance comfort and well-being for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Plus, we’ll provide insights to help you choose the perfect lighting solutions for your home.

This article will cover the following topics: 

• Understanding Sensory-Friendly Lighting
• Adjustable Lighting Solutions
• Light Bulb Color
• Avoiding Flicker
• Layering Light
• Minimizing Reflections
• Avoiding Glare
• Natural Light
• Wall Finishes 

Understanding Sensory-Friendly Lighting

Light sensitivity is much more common than you think! There are many reasons why a person may feel uncomfortable in bright lights, including (but not limited to): headaches and migraines, dry eyes, LASIK surgery, cataracts, autism, ADHD, SPD, anxiety, depression, and as a side effect of some medications. The odds are pretty good that you’ll know and love at least one person who may be light sensitive, and if you’ve read this far we’re betting you do. 

Making your home more sensory-friendly isn’t as simple as turning off all of the lights but one (in fact, that often will make it worse!), but it doesn’t have to be a difficult or expensive thing to do. Sensory-friendly lighting aims to minimize discomfort and create a soothing atmosphere for people with sensory sensitivities, but the end result is often a more comfortable and inviting space for everyone. In the end, all it really boils down to is finding a balance that works well for you and your guests. 

A couple of good keywords to focus on in your plans are cozy and calm. Much like the way we’d feel in this beautifully styled living room.

Every person, room, and home is different, and there’s never a one-size-fits-all solution for interior design or sensory needs. First and foremost, plan for the comfort of the specific people that will be using the space. Then, look at things like ambiance, brightness, color temperature, and flicker as you consider lighting types and locations. 

Adjustable Lighting Solutions

Many people who are light sensitive may notice that lights bother them more when they are tired or stressed. Being able to dim the lights when you want to is huge. Wherever you can, make your light levels easily customizable. Look for light fixtures and bulbs that offer adjustable brightness levels and install dimmer switches or smart lighting systems. This allows you to effortlessly control the intensity of your lights, making it easy to tailor your home’s lighting to different activities and moods.

Keep in mind – while some may find a room with dimmed lights more calming, others may find the low light uncomfortable. When in doubt, just ask. 

Light Bulb Color and Sensory Sensitivity

Light bulbs come in colors measured in Kelvins, ranging from warm white (usually around 2700K) to cool light (usually around 5000K). The color of natural light changes throughout the day, and humans have adapted to react to the change. The color of the light in your home can have a direct impact on the mood of the people that are in it. Warm light is relaxing, while cool light is energizing. 

When lighting for sensory sensitivities, opt for bulbs with warm and natural color temperatures.Cool-toned lighting may be great for an office or a kitchen where you need to stay focused, but it can feel harsh and overwhelming for some individuals. Warm tones, resembling natural daylight, create a more comfortable and calming environment.

Pro Tip: The color of your lighting will impact how other colors look in your home. This may mean that the paint on your walls will look different if you swap out your light bulbs. Just consider it a free home makeover!

Avoiding Flicker

The dreaded flicker. Almost everyone has an aversion to fluorescent lights, but do you know why? Flickering lights can be a source of discomfort for many, and fluorescent bulbs especially are known to flicker at a rate that can cause headaches or migraines. To avoid this sensory nightmare, choose bulbs with a high CRI (Color Rendering Index) and a low flicker percentage. Your best bet in today’s market is LED bulbs – they flicker much faster than other bulbs, making the flicker almost imperceptible. And, bonus, they are incredibly energy-efficient, which means you might see a decrease in your utility bills.

Pro Tip: Power surges can also cause your lights to flicker, and even cause your bulbs to burn out more quickly. Installing a whole-home surge protector can help to make your lighting more sensory-friendly with less flickering, and can prolong the use of your lights. 

Layer Your Light

Layered. Lighting. Is. Key. Never rely solely on overhead lighting. “The Big Light” sparked a debate last year on TikTok, and it’s pretty clear by now that many people feel uncomfortable in a room with a single, overhead light source. If you want your room to feel complete, you need to have several light sources. 

For a comfortable sensory experience, consider ditching the overhead lighting altogether. Incorporate supplementary lighting options such as floor lamps or wall sconces to distribute light more evenly throughout the room, reducing harsh shadows and creating a softer ambiance. 

Want to see this in action? Check out this video by Josh and Matt Design.

If you must use an overhead light, find a fixture with a shade that covers the bulb, or look for fixtures that shine light upward at the ceiling or onto the walls rather than downward onto your space. If overhead light is a must, consider installing cove lighting, which hides the light fixture from view, while illuminating the wall below. As you can see in the image above, the light bounces off the walls into the room, lighting the room without the need for a harsh, direct light.

Minimize Reflections

Another thing to consider is reflective surfaces. Any place that reflects light can count as another light source because it bounces light back into the space. Be aware of highly reflective surfaces like polished floors and countertops, glass table tops, windows, metallic fixtures, tv screens, large kitchen appliances, and mirrors. Opt for sensory-friendly matte finishes on furniture, and go for a avoid high gloss paint sheens when painting a room.

In addition to where light is reflecting from, look at where the light is reflecting to. Experiment with light placement to ensure that you don’t have any unintended reflections. Things to watch out for could include light reflecting toward your eyes while seated on couches or at the dining table, toward the entrance of your home, or toward a bed. 

Pro Tip: Not sure where those reflective surfaces are, or where they’re sending lights? Grab a flashlight and turn off all of the lights in the evening. Shine it around the room, standing near light sources like lamps and windows, and watch for the pops of light!

Avoid Glare with Diffused Light

Nothing’s worse than looking up and accidentally getting an eye-full of harsh, bare-bulb light. Direct light can be overstimulating for many, so look for ways to diffuse, soften, or scatter the light. This is an easy switch – look for light fixtures with shades that soften the light, or bulb covers that slightly obscure the bulb. If you have fixtures with clear glass shades or bare bulbs, replace the light bulbs with frosted bulbs to help diffuse the light. Hang light filtering shades or curtains over windows that get harsh direct light during parts of the day, or add a privacy film. All of these things will allow you to still use plenty of light in your space, without the harsh glare of a direct source.

Another common source of glare is from screens. Be it a TV or a computer monitor, the contrast of the bright light on the screen to the lesser light around it can be hard on your eyes. Bias lighting, or backlighting, involves adding light behind the screen to create a more gradual transition. Fixing this is as simple as adding a stick-on LED light strip to the back of the screen – it’ll create a soft glow on the wall behind the screen and make it easier on your eyes. 

Pro Tip: If you want to get fancy, there are smart bias lighting solutions that can mimic the colors that are displayed on the screen, changing and adapting with the show or game you’re watching. We recommend opting for one that can also be set to a single color in case the changing colors is overstimulating for your sensory-sensitive friends and family. 

Natural Light 

Outside of artificial light sources, don’t forget that natural light is going to give you the most consistent and steady brightness, plus a good dose of Vitamin D. Natural light is a proven mood-booster, and exposure to it throughout the day can help to regulate our circadian rhythms, getting everyone a better night’s rest. 

As we’ve mentioned above, keeping natural light in your home for your family’s well-being can also be a sensory-friendly experience with just a little bit of extra thought and planning. Light diffusing options are always a smart choice, whether it’s sheer or blackout curtains, zebra shades nudged up or down just a smidge, or wood slat blinds slanted at just the right angle, it’s easy to be prepared to meet the light-sensitivity needs of anyone that may enter your home.

Choosing Wall Finishes

While lighting is a crucial component in creating a sensory-friendly home, the color of your walls also plays a significant role in influencing the overall atmosphere. The interaction between your lighting and the color and finish of your walls can have a huge impact on the comfort of your living space. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when selecting wall colors for a sensory-friendly environment:

Color

Stark white is a time-honored classic wall color for good reason, it makes a home feel bright and airy, crisp and clean. The trouble is, it’s also very reflective, which could be making your space less sensory-friendly than you may realize. Instead, opt for soft or muted colors for a light color palette, or choose deep or saturated wall colors for a richer color palette. You don’t need to swing all the way to black paint (unless you want to – black walls are in right now!), but it is good to keep in mind that, generally speaking, the darker the color, the less light it will reflect. You’d be surprised how much of a transformation in your space you’ll see with even a single wall painted in a darker color. 

Also important to note is the impact of color theory. While every person will have different preferences, color theory gives us some general guidelines to choosing color that make a great starting point. Generally speaking, blues, greens, and pinks tend to be calming, while bright reds, oranges, and yellows are more energizing.

Contrast

In addition to the color you choose, you’ll also want to pay attention to the contrast between the wall and your lighting, and what’s near it. High contrast color schemes may create visual disturbances for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Aim for a cohesive and balanced look, where the colors in the wall, ceiling, lights, and furnishings work together to create a comfortable and inviting space. 

If a patterned wall is on your wishlist, they can be possible with a bit of care and planning. Choose patterns with low contrast, and avoid overly busy designs. If you’re struggling to find something that works – consider looking instead at textures. A textured wallpaper (or material like concrete, wood, or brick) may be able to give you the same visual interest you’re looking for without the high-contrast colors and designs.

Finish

Avoid overly glossy finishes, as they can reflect and amplify light and create unwanted glare. Choose matte paint or wallpaper finish to diffuse light and reduce glare and create a more visually comfortable environment. For the matte-finish-averse, eggshell or satin may work, depending on the wall color and how direct the lighting is in the area.

Areas

You don’t need to paint your entire house a dark color to make it sensory friendly! Sensory needs may change by location – for example, a brightly colored or patterned accent wall may be perfect for a play area, but overstimulating in your dining area or at a homework station. Pay attention to where overstimulation tends to occur, then consider breaking up those spaces with soothing paint, wallpaper, or a large art piece. Are tensions typically high at the dinner table? Is it hard to wind down at the end of the day? Perhaps a dimmer light and/or a darker color on the wall in that area could help.

Test It Out

Every home and person in it is unique. It’s always a good idea to test different wall colors in small sections before committing. This allows you to see how the color interacts with your space and the people in it, and assess whether it will impact the overall sensory experience in your home. And remember – the color of your light bulbs can change how the color on your walls appears. Watch the area throughout the day, and be aware that you may need to fiddle with light bulb colors if you don’t like the way they change your paint. 

Seeing it in Action

This great room is beautiful, but a light-sensitive person would likely be very uncomfortable here. The cool-toned overhead lights are bright and intense, and the polished floor reflects them from below as well. While the pendant light in the dining area does have a calming warm color tone, it also has a clear shade that gives the eyes a direct line of sight to the glare of a harsh, bare bulb.

To make this space more sensory-friendly, we’d recommend dimming the recessed lights, swapping out the shade on the pendant light, and adding a rug under the table and at the kitchen sink to help prevent some of those floor reflections. The homeowner could also reduce reflected light in this space by painting some of the stark white walls a less reflective color – a much cheaper and easier fix than replacing the floor!

In comparison, this living room is a sensory dream. A pair of soft, glowing lamps with shades diffuse their warm-toned light, providing plenty of illumination to use the space without needing to use the overhead light. This space has few reflective materials, and plenty of soft, comfy places to sink into and enjoy a good conversation – or a cozy evening read – at the end of a long day.

Incorporating sensory-friendly lighting strategies into your home is a thoughtful and impactful way to enhance the well-being of your family and friends. By making intentional choices in lighting fixtures and bulbs, you can create a soothing, comfortable, and relaxed atmosphere in your home. And, most importantly, remember – sensory-friendly doesn’t mean dark and boring! Have fun with your design, while keeping things like light, reflection, colors, and glare in mind as you make your space your own.

Visit your local lighting showroom to explore a wide range of options and receive expert advice from our experienced lighting professionals on creating the perfect lighting setup to create a welcoming and comfortable space for everyone in your household. Take the first step towards a sensory-friendly home at Super Lite. 

 

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