Choosing the right bulb for your needs can be overwhelming given the variety of options available. With so many choices from different fittings, colour temperatures, dimming capabilities, smart technology, and light levels, getting the right bulb for your space can seem daunting. In this guide, we will walk you through the key information that will help you to determine which is the right bulb for your purposes.
First, we will outline the three types of bulbs available. With the ban on the sale of new Halogen and Incandescent bulbs in the United Kingdom as of 2021, it is more than likely that you will be using LED bulbs, but it’s still worth knowing the differences.
Types of Bulbs
Incandescent Bulbs - These are the traditional bulbs that most people are familiar with. They produce light by heating a filament inside the bulb. There are many reasons why people prefer incandescent lighting, and their consistent, natural warm light is one of them. The other is that incandescent bulbs are relatively cheap. The problem with this low up-front cost is the subsequent electricity bills that mirror the inefficiency of these bulbs. Incandescent bulbs lose a lot of their energy through heat as a by-product to the light. Not only is this costly in the long run, but because of the heat generated, they have a relatively short lifespan, meaning more bulbs replaced over time.
Halogen Bulbs - Another type of incandescent bulb, the halogen bulbs use halogen gas to increase light output. These are typically much brighter than traditional incandescent bulbs, have a longer lifespan, and are a little more energy efficient, though nowhere near as efficient as LED bulbs.
LED Bulbs - Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulbs are highly efficient and long-lasting. They don’t require gasses to operate and generate very minimal heat, making them extremely energy efficient. They’re also available in a multitude of colour temperatures, including RGB colours to create any ambience or colour scheme you need for a lighting project. The only downside to an LED bulb is their higher upfront cost. This, however, is offset by energy savings over time, and is worth the investment, especially considering their longer lifespan than an incandescent or halogen bulb.
Smart Bulbs - While technically still an LED bulb, a smart bulb has the added benefit of smart technology built into it. This means you can control your light wirelessly via your phone for ultimate convenience. These still have all of the benefits of an LED bulb.
Bulb Fittings and Caps
Bulb fittings, also known as caps or bases, are the part of the bulb that connects to the power supply. Each type of bulb has a letter followed by a number. The letter denotes the type of fitting, while the number represents the size of the fitting in millimetres. For example, B22 represents a 22mm Bayonet fitting. This helps you to understand the precise size you may need for your fixture.
E14 - Small Edison Screw (SES): small size for lamps and smaller fixtures.
E27 - Edison Screw (ES): The larger and more common size for ceiling, floor lights, large table lamps, and wall lights.
B15 - Small Bayonet Cap (SBC): Used for small wall fittings and table lamps.
B22 – Bayonet Cap (BC): Widely used in the UK and other countries.
GU10 - Common in spotlights and downlights, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
G4, G9 and GU5.3 - These have small pins, designed for cooker hoods, or as smaller decorative or accent lighting.
Lumens
Lumens represents the brightness in a bulb, while Lux measures the amount of light that falls onto a surface. The higher the lumens, the higher the brightness in the bulb. The brightness you require for your room depends on many factors, such as the size of the space, the purpose, and the amount of natural light the room already has. A kitchen will require much more light than a bedroom, so take this into consideration when deciding on how many lumens you choose.
To learn more about lumens and lux, visit our blog, 'What is Lux Level?'
Dimming Functions
Not all bulbs are created equal, and that counts for dimming as well. You can often find bulbs marketed as dimmable or non-dimmable bulbs, and dimming an LED is not quite as straight forward as simply reducing the power to the bulb.
Typically, the most common operation for LEDs is Pulse Width Modulation (PWM). This works by switching the LED on and off rapidly enough that the human eye perceives a steady light. When adjusting the brightness on this type of LED, the ratio of on-time to the off-time is adjusted within each cycle. In simple terms, at 10% brightness, the LED is only on for 10% of the cycle, and off for the other 90%. Turning up the brightness to 50%, the ratio would change, and the LED would be on for 50% and off for the other 50%.
Without dimming capabilities, the LED bulb is unable to maintain this cycle and results in strong flickering, or the bulb failing entirely. To avoid this, ensure that your bulbs are fit for dimming before pairing with a dimmer switch.
Dim to Warm is a clever feature that’s only possible with LEDs. Using a regular dimmer switch, you can adjust the colour temperature of your light, as opposed to adjusting the brightness. This allows you to seamlessly move between different colour temperatures without the need for more than one light.
Colour Temperature
Colour temperature plays an important part in the function of your space. Temperatures range from 1000k for the warmest tone of light with more orange right up to 10,000k for a cool blue. Typical bulb levels will range between 1500k and 5000k. Visit our blog ‘What is Colour Temperature’ to learn more.
Warm temperature light is typically used for ambience, while cooler toned light is best for workspaces and for illuminating work surfaces. Using a cool toned light in a reading nook will not lend to a relaxing atmosphere. Similarly, a warm tone may not allow you to see as well in a workspace.
It can also shift the appearance of colours in the room. Paint colour may appear a lighter or darker in shade. It may even appear a different colour entirely depending on the temperature of the light. The cooler a light gets, the bluer the tone, whereas orange is the base for warmer colour temperatures. It’s important to bear this in mind when choosing colours in your interior design.
CRI
Similarly to colour temperature, CRI or Colour Rendering Index, refers to the way that light emitted reflects colour back. A lower CRI bulb can leech colours, and affect the way that you view that colour, whereas a high CRI bulb will allow those colours to be reflected back to the eye as true as with sunlight.
Opal VS Filament
The style of bulb you choose for your light fitting primarily depends on the design of your fitting, though the opacity of the glass has an impact on the kind of light it emits as well.
Vintage style filament bulbs pair perfectly with a decorative glass pendant or bulb holder. The bulb adds a decorative element to the fitting which perfect for vintage or industrial interiors. There are also larger statement bulbs that are perfect for stand-alone fittings or as part of a larger lighting design, making the bulb itself the centre of the display.
Opal glass bulbs are perfect for enclosed shades or pendants where the light can be diffused evenly around within the fitting. The same can be said for open fittings for a more evenly diffused light around the entire room.
Considerations for Choosing the Right Bulb
Choosing the right bulb involves balancing brightness, colour temperature, and function. Determining the primary use of the bulb is the best place to start. Do you need cooler, brighter task light for your kitchen, or do you need warmer, softer light to relax in your bedroom? Choosing a dimmable bulb, or even a smart bulb gives you the choice for rooms where you might need to adjust your lighting, not to mention typically being more energy saving. Ensure that you have chosen the right bulb cap to fit the light fitting, and that the bulb itself can fit inside your chosen light fitting. Once you have answered all of these questions, you will have a clear understanding of the type of bulb you will need for your space.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Choosing the right bulb for your needs can be overwhelming given the variety of options available. With so many choices from different fittings, colour temperatures, dimming capabilities, smart technology, and light levels, getting the right bulb for your space can seem daunting. In this guide, we will walk you through the key information that will […]
Whether you’re incorporating silver hardware, decorating your walls with silver highlights, or adding silver furnishings to your space, choosing the right colour palette can help to balance this beautiful finish. In this guide, we will explore a variety of colours that complement and harmonise with silver to create a cohesive interior design.
Neutrals Tones
Pairing neutrals with silver creates a harmonious atmosphere, perfectly suited for a contemporary or minimalist interior. Silver enhances monochrome interiors by breaking up matte textures and invigorating a potentially monotone or drab décor.
Crisp white walls or furnishings accentuate the reflective qualities of silver, and enhances brightness, particularly in smaller spaces. Soft beige provides a neutral backdrop for silver accents, creating a sense of warmth and understated elegance. Similarly, light greys right through to darker stony greys benefit from this gleaming finish. The warm undertone in taupe provides a subtle contrast to the cool tone of silver. This adds depth and dimension to your design scheme.
Bold Hues
Rich blues such as navy and midnight blue create a striking contrast when paired with silver, adding depth to your space while maintaining a sense of opulence and refinement.
This effect is also achieved with teals, forest greens, and even rich reds such as burgundy and maroon, offering a warm backdrop to really emphasise the gleaming cool tones of silver. Sage green offers a lighter and more refreshing contrast to silver that brings a natural, earthy richness to your indoor space.
Tranquil Pastels
Pastels create a serene and calming ambience, and this pairs with beautifully with silver accents such as light fittings or ornamentation. Delicate shades of lavender, power pinks, and pale blue hues evoke a sense tranquillity, and creates a soft and inviting atmosphere when combined with silver furnishings
Mixing Metals
Pairing silver with warmer metals such as gold, copper, bronze, or brass adds a new dimension to the way you enhance your space. The play of warm and cool toned metals lends a new dynamic to your interior, infusing the space with warmth, and creating visual interest in your décor.
Silver is a versatile and forgiving metal that complements and enhances many colours with ease. With silver ornaments, furnishings, wallpaper, or even hardware, you can create a space that exudes style, sophistication, and charm. Whether you prefer earthy neutrals, bold jewel tones, or serene pastels, the possibilities for designing with silver are endless.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Whether you’re incorporating silver hardware, decorating your walls with silver highlights, or adding silver furnishings to your space, choosing the right colour palette can help to balance this beautiful finish. In this guide, we will explore a variety of colours that complement and harmonise with silver to create a cohesive interior design. Neutrals Tones Pairing […]
Solid brass lighting is not just visually stunning, but it’s also incredibly versatile, and can work with a wide variety of different interior design styles. One of the best reasons for choosing solid brass for lighting is that it’s a particularly hard wearing and robust metal. This makes it particularly effective as outdoor lighting, especially in adverse weather and damp environments.
However, there are many products that are marketed as brass, when in fact they are brass plated. Plating a base metal such as copper or steel with brass is a much more cost-effective solution to crafting many metal objects, however they simply don’t stand the test of time. So, can you know for certain that your product is solid brass? There are a number of easy checks you can perform
Visual Inspection
The first place you might want to start is to look for a hallmark. For antique pieces, there may be a maker’s hallmark stamped somewhere on the bottom or sides of the item. However, legislation does not require brass to be hallmarked. Occasionally you will find “BRASS” stamped on the item, but this is not guaranteed nor required.
Real brass has a distinctive yellow gold tone. While brass and gold may appear similar at a quick glance, if your item is a brighter yellow in tone, this hints at gold plating as opposed to brass.
Over time, brass can develop a green or brown patina. This is caused by oxidisation and is a common sign of aging in real brass. This can easily be buffed out to retain a high shine finish. Buffing a gold plated item isn't necessary, may wear down the plating over time and expose the metal underneath.
Physical Tests
Brass is a non-magnetic metal. If a magnet does sticks to the item, it is likely not brass but a brass-plated steel or another magnetic base metal.
Brass is also much denser than many other metals and will feel weighty in your hand. If the item feels lighter than expected, then it may not be solid brass.
Scratch an inconspicuous area of the item with a sharp tool. Real brass will reveal a similar yellow tone underneath, while brass plating will show a silver, or sometimes copper base metal.
Brass produces a pleasant ringing sound when knocked with a hard object. Try tapping the item with a coin. If it’s brass, it should produce a resonant ringing sound, whereas other metals or alloys will produce a duller thud.
By using a combination of these methods, you can determine if any of your brass object in your home is real or not.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Solid brass lighting is not just visually stunning, but it’s also incredibly versatile, and can work with a wide variety of different interior design styles. One of the best reasons for choosing solid brass for lighting is that it’s a particularly hard wearing and robust metal. This makes it particularly effective as outdoor lighting, especially […]
Smart systems are becoming the standard across many homes in the UK as technology improves and becomes increasingly more convenient and customisable. With smart lighting leading the market, both smart bulbs and smart switches offer homeowners the ability to control the ambience of their home, optimise energy efficiency, and even play a role in home security.
But which option is the right fit for your home or lighting project? In this guide, we will explore the differences between smart bulbs and smart switches to help you make an informed decision.
Smart Bulbs
Smart bulbs are essentially standalone LED bulbs equipped with built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. This means they can be controlled wirelessly through smartphone apps, voice commands, or smart home platforms such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
On top of its connectivity, smart bulbs offer colour changing capabilities, as well as adjustable brightness levels and colour temperature. This allows you to fully adjust your lighting to suit different activities or moods.
Installing a smart bulb is as simple as replacing the bulb in any existing light fixtures. This makes them an incredibly user-friendly option, particularly for renters, and their application is limitless. They can be installed in lamps, floor lamps, wall lights, and ceiling lights; essentially anywhere that individual control is required.
One drawback to a smart bulb is that the bulb will need a constant power supply. For a smart bulb to work, the main switch will need to be in the on position at all times in order to be used remotely.
Smart Switches
Smart switches are designed to replace traditional light switches and are integrated into the electrical wiring of your home. They offer centralised control over multiple light fixtures connected to the same switch, providing a more seamless lighting experience.
Smart switches work in the same way as smart bulbs, in that they can be controlled via smartphone apps, voice commands, and through Alexa or similar. However, they have the added benefit of manual operation through the switch itself.
However, unlike smart bulbs, smart switches do not require each individual bulb to be replaced. While this is a cost-effective solution for homes with multiple fixtures, this does limit the capabilities of your smart lighting to just dimming, timer, and on/off functions. This is different from a smart bulb which provides the added benefit of colour temperature and colour changing abilities.
Installing a smart switch requires an electrician to wire into your home correctly, so this option may be more suitable for property owners.
Smart Lighting
Another option to consider is a smart light; a standard light fitting or downlight that can be controlled via smartphone apps and smart home platforms.
In terms of functionality, a smart light often has all the benefits of a smart bulb integrated into a decorative fixture. Brightness, colour temperature, and colour changing are common functions. However like smart bulbs, a smart light will require a constant power source for it to be operated remotely. This means that it is only suitable for situations where the light source has its own dedicated switch.
Like smart switches, smart lighting will need to be installed by an electrician, so this is something to bear in mind when weighing your options.
Factors to Consider
- Compatibility: Ensure that the smart bulbs or switches you choose are compatible with your existing lighting fixtures and smart home system if you already have one in place.
- Cost: Evaluate the upfront cost of smart bulbs versus smart switches. Considering the number of fixtures or rooms you intend to upgrade.
- Functionality: Consider your lighting preferences and lifestyle needs. Smart bulbs offer more focused control over individual fixtures, while smart switches provide control over entire rooms or spaces.
- Installation: Assess your permissions, budget, and convenience. Do you live in a rented property? Is hiring a professional electrician to install smart switches going to be too costly? Would adjusting multiple smart bulbs in one space be an inconvenience?
Whether you opt for smart bulbs or smart switches, upgrading to smart lighting technology can enhance the comfort, convenience, and efficiency of your home. By carefully considering your lighting needs, budget, and compatibility requirements, you can determine the best solution to transform your space.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Smart systems are becoming the standard across many homes in the UK as technology improves and becomes increasingly more convenient and customisable. With smart lighting leading the market, both smart bulbs and smart switches offer homeowners the ability to control the ambience of their home, optimise energy efficiency, and even play a role in home […]
Choosing a finish for your home can often be a challenge when faced with multiple different types of finish. It’s likely that you know you are choosing a silver tone to match your interior design. Among the myriad options nickel and chrome stand out as popular choices for their timeless appeal and durability. However, the two are not synonymous. In this blog, we will explore the characteristics of nickel and chrome and help you to choose your finish with confidence.
What is Chrome Finish
Chrome has a cool colour temperature, with bluer hues to give the finish a bright silver appearance. This sleek and modern finish adds a contemporary flair to any space, and is usually available as a highly polished finish, or a satin effect brushed chrome.
Polished chrome finishes feature a mirror-like shine that reflects light and creates dimension in your interior design. It’s also a great match with modern chrome taps and lighting and enhances minimalist spaces.
What is Nickel Finish?
At a glance, nickel is almost identical to chrome. However nickel has a slight hint of gold in its tone, leading to a warmer finish than its cooler counterpart. This slightly yellow tone can give the appearance of an aged metal that is perfect for vintage style spaces, pairing particularly well with Art Deco or even industrial styled homes.
Just as with polished chrome, nickel can be either highly polished for a mirror like sheen or brushed to create a satin appearance. Both of these finishes work beautifully in the home, or even as outdoor lighting. Nickel is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. This makes it a great option for high-moisture environments such as bathrooms or outdoor lighting.
Black Nickel
This finish differs from nickel and chrome in one key way, it's much darker than chrome or nickel. Black nickel is not true black, and exhibits more of the warmth associated with nickel. This warmth leads to a dark, almost smoky finish with an aged appearance. Black nickel is perfect for modern, minimalist, or contemporary spaces.
Choosing Between Nickel and Chrome
Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of nickel or the modernity of chrome, both finishes offer distinct characteristics that can enhance the beauty and functionality of your home.
The key to deciding between these two finishes is to consider the overall aesthetic of your home. A cooler toned chrome will be more suitable for a modern or contemporary space, while nickel provides a slightly aged appearance, and is best suited for vintage, Art deco, or even spaces with an industrial twist to them.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Choosing a finish for your home can often be a challenge when faced with multiple different types of finish. It’s likely that you know you are choosing a silver tone to match your interior design. Among the myriad options nickel and chrome stand out as popular choices for their timeless appeal and durability. However, the […]
Scandi, or Scandinavian interior design is a minimalist and functional design style originating in Nordic countries such as Norway, Denmark, and Sweden in the early 20th century.
Characterised by its linear simplicity, neutral colour palette, and clean functionality, this iconic design style has quickly grown in popularity choice, and there are many ways that you can incorporate this enduring organic aesthetic into your home. Let's delve into the core elements and principles of this design style.
Functionality First
At the heart of Scandi design is functionality, with the emphasis of practicality working together with ornamentation. Thought goes into every piece of furniture. With the exception of houseplants, you will not find much in the way of excessive decoration for aesthetics’ sake. Instead, all items within the space should be guided by its intended use. Each piece of furniture serves both decoration and useful function.
This minimalist approach creates a sense of light and air which is particularly important in smaller homes and spaces. Keeping decorative elements to a minimum, such as avoiding excess and clutter is key.
A Soft Colour Scheme
A Scandi colour palette favours neutral colours. Muted tones such as cream whites, beige, greys, soft browns, and taupe lend to a relaxing yet refreshing atmosphere. Pair with subtle accents of matt black or deep sumptuous browns to contrast these clean colours. This creates a sense of tranquillity and ushers the theme of simplicity throughout the space.
Elements of Nature
Scandinavian countries are renowned for their stunning natural landscapes, and Scandi design draws inspiration from this. Natural woods, especially light woods such as pine and birch play a significant role, as well as leather, wool, wicker, and stone are all commonly used materials. These add texture to muted tones.
Avoid harsh, manmade materials such as polished metals or acrylics that will detract from this soft and organic aesthetic. Incorporating luscious green houseplants brings a fresh element to your design. This further lends to the natural elements of a Scandi interior.
Lighting a Scandi Space
Scandi interiors are designed to maximise natural light as best they can, with large windows and open spaces contributing to the airy feel of this interior design. However, this is not always an option. Smaller spaces, limited window access, and darker winter evenings can have a significant impact on how you would light a Scandi designed space.
Smooth lines, neutral colours, and natural materials are favoured when selecting lighting. Choose materials such as raw wood elements paired with matte painted surfaces, wicker, and neutral toned fabric shades with sleek curved to really tie this unique interior style together.
Be careful not to select a light temperature that will offset the natural feel of your space. A light that is too cool for your space will appear harsh and remove the subtle shades and tones of your muted palette, while too warm will close the space in. Select a bulb between 3000k and 4000k to bathe your space in a more natural and refreshing light. To find out more about colour temperature, visit our blog What is Colour Temperature.
Hygge
The concept of Hygge is closely associated with Scandi design, and embodies the feeling of cosiness, comfort, and contentment. Incorporating soft furnishings, cushions, warmer lighting will move your cool and fresh Scandi design into a warmer and more inviting Hygge atmosphere.
With its clean lines, neutral colours, and emphasis on light, Scandi embodies simplicity, functionality, and a connection with nature. Whether you're looking to redesign your living room, bedroom, or workspace, incorporating Scandi design can elevate the overall and harmony of your space
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Scandi, or Scandinavian interior design is a minimalist and functional design style originating in Nordic countries such as Norway, Denmark, and Sweden in the early 20th century. Characterised by its linear simplicity, neutral colour palette, and clean functionality, this iconic design style has quickly grown in popularity choice, and there are many ways that you […]
Low ceilings can pose a unique challenge when it comes to lighting design. Whether you're dealing with a cosy apartment, a basement space, or architectural constraints, selecting the right lighting solutions is essential for maximizing both functionality and aesthetics.
With thoughtful planning and strategic lighting choices, you can transform your low ceiling spaces into inviting and well-lit environments. In this guide, we'll explore various techniques and fixtures tailored to illuminate low ceilings effectively.
Assess Your Space
Measuring the height of your ceiling will determine how much available clearance you have for light fixtures. The standard ceiling height for new builds in the UK is approximately 2.4 metres, or 7 feet 10 inches. This gives enough clearance for a pendant lighting to be fitted without causing any obstruction to daily life, however older properties, particularly country homes, and farm cottages have a lower ceiling height, and you may need to choose whether that low hanging pendant is really right for your space.
Another important thing to consider is the angle of your ceiling. If you room has a sloped or slanted ceiling, then you will have to adjust your lighting plan according to the angle and height of the ceiling at its lowest point. Some ceiling mounted lights may not be suitable for an extreme angle.
Below, we will run through some of the most suitable light fixtures for low or angled ceilings.
Downlights
Downlights are a fantastic option for low ceilings, as these recessed light fittings will slot directly into the ceiling to create a clean and unobtrusive look and removing any chance of knocking the light.
If your low ceiling is horizontal, then Fixed Downlights are perfect for this space, however if you have a tilted ceiling, for example in a rooftop space, then Tiltable Downlights may be a better option. Tiltable Downlights allow you to angle the light away and reduce glare when using the space.
Ceiling Mounted Lights
Flush Ceiling Mounted Lights fit snugly against the ceiling, making them ideal for lower ceilings with minimal clearance. Semi-flush ceiling lights extend slightly from the ceiling but have the added benefit of a little more design choice while still maintaining a lower profile.
Track Lighting
Track lighting is another great solution to lower ceilings, as it allows you to install several multi-directional lights from only one fitting, perfect for keeping a ceiling with limited space clutter free.
This space saving adjustable light works particularly well in kitchens, highlighting workspaces effectively. Another handy application of track lighting is to highlight artwork or architectural designs in the home without adding individual lights to your space.
Wall Lights
Wall Mounted Lights or sconces not only complement overhead lighting but combining multiple lighting sources create depth and dimension to your room. You can experiment with light layering by selecting different colour temperatures, light fixtures, and accent lighting to accommodate various activities and enhance the overall ambience of the space.
Wall lights are also a great alternative to overhead lighting if the ceiling space simply isn’t large enough for ceiling mounted lighting.
Pendant Lighting
Pendant Lighting is not typically suitable for low ceilings, however there are a few exceptions that are worth considering from an aesthetic perspective. Installing pendant lighting over dining tables or kitchen islands where overhead clearance isn’t necessary can add a beautiful design statement to the space.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Low ceilings can pose a unique challenge when it comes to lighting design. Whether you’re dealing with a cosy apartment, a basement space, or architectural constraints, selecting the right lighting solutions is essential for maximizing both functionality and aesthetics. With thoughtful planning and strategic lighting choices, you can transform your low ceiling spaces into inviting […]
Outdoor lighting serves as both a functional and aesthetic feature for homes. Whether you're looking to enhance the security of your property, create a welcoming ambience for guests, or create a focal point in your landscaping, the right outdoor lighting can make a significant impact.
However, navigating the world of outdoor lighting can be tricky. We ask our resident electrical expert Don some of our most frequently asked questions about outdoor lighting. In this guide we will help you to light your home safely and effectively.
What should I consider when choosing outdoor lighting?
There are three main considerations to make when planning outdoor lighting, and all three work together to create a lighting scheme that works best for your space.
What is the space for?
First, it’s important to understand how the space is going to be used, and this helps us to choose the optimum level of light required for your outdoor space. Is this an access where guide lighting is needed, a patio area designed for entertainment, or an outdoor workspace? This will help to narrow down the light level requirements.
Where to put your lights?
Next is the location of lights, and this is dependent on two things, access to a power source, and IP rating. If you have an easily accessible power source near to where you would like to install your lights, then this will be no issue. However, if the location is a little further, or there is no safe access to power, then you may have to consider solar powered lighting.
It is crucial to choose a light with a high IP rating for outdoor lighting. An IP rating (or Ingress Protection Rating) tells you how effectively a product can shield against water and debris. Simply put, the higher the number, the more effective the protection. Not just any light can be installed outside as moisture can enter the light fitting and cause electrical problems. For outdoor lighting, we recommend an IP44 rating for covered areas such as porches and entryways, and a minimum of IP65 for exposed walls and ground lighting. (For more information on IP ratings you can visit our blog here.)
Considering others
The final consideration to make is light pollution. Being mindful of the impact that lighting has is crucial as there is an abundance of nocturnal wildlife that are disrupted by persistent or unnecessarily bright outdoor lighting. Choosing a timed outdoor light system is great way to combat this issue. This ensures your local wildlife (and a few grateful neighbours) won’t be affected.
Can you explain the importance of proper lighting design for enhancing both aesthetics and safety in outdoor environments?
You can balance practical and aesthetic lighting to create a safer (and a more aesthetic) space by installing discreet path lights as guide lights that also effectively highlight garden features. Up and Down Lighting provides a stunning effect, both up-lighting the architecture of your property, as well as casting light down toward the ground for a pleasing yet practical guide light along walkways or paths. Step lights are the perfect solution for dark steps or stairs that may cause a trip hazard.
What are the benefits of smart lighting systems for outdoor lighting?
Smart lighting is an innovative way to balance efficiency and convenience. Not only does smart lighting mean that you can operate your outdoor lighting from your smart phone, but it also means that you can adjust brightness, set timers, and you can even ensure that your lights are switched off if you’re not at home. This doesn’t just save electricity bills, it helps to avoid light pollution.
What are the best practices for installing outdoor lighting to ensure longevity and minimal maintenance?
Using the correct IP rating is a great place to start, as well as using robust light fixtures with high quality cables and materials. Always seek a trusted electrician to ensure that the installation is correct first time around.
How can outdoor lighting be used to highlight architectural features, landscaping, and other outdoor elements?
Using spotlights is a great way to bring attention to key features in your garden and outside your home. A wall mounted spotlight provides downward facing light for top-down illumination that is great for walls and displaying flowerbeds, whereas a ground spike lights garden features from beneath for a striking display of light and shadow. The beauty of a ground spike like is that it can be hidden amongst foliage, creating a glare free experience.
What are some common mistakes people make when choosing and installing outdoor lighting, and how can they be avoided?
Using the incorrect light level for your space. Dim lights for walkways or paths may disguise trip hazards, whereas light that is too bright may not create the desired atmosphere for your patio. Choosing the incorrect IP rating for your purpose can cause bigger issues down the line, so we recommend heading over to our guide [LINK] for more information to ensure you choose the best light for your purpose.
Can you share some tips on creating a cohesive outdoor lighting scheme that complements the overall design and ambience of a property?
Try to balance your light levels to avoid deeper shadows and glare and remember that not all light has to be guide lighting Light layering helps to add aesthetic to function, upward facing ground lights paired with downfacing spotlights creates a pleasing mix of shadow and light that will uplift your garden at night. Illuminate key features with warmer temperatures, and pathways with a cooler light to create dimension in your outdoor space.
Outdoor lighting serves as both a functional and aesthetic feature for homes. Whether you’re looking to enhance the security of your property, create a welcoming ambience for guests, or create a focal point in your landscaping, the right outdoor lighting can make a significant impact. However, navigating the world of outdoor lighting can be tricky. […]
Reinventing your homes interior design is becoming an increasingly popular task for homeowners, and tips, tricks, and hacks offer a way for people to undertake DIY projects with relatively little experience. However, these options are not always practical or safe, and one such hack you might be wondering about is whether you can paint your sockets and switches at home?
Painting your space in a bold or bright colour can lead to white plastic assets becoming more noticeable than you had initially anticipated, especially if there are no white tones in your interior design plan. It might have crossed your mind to simple paint your existing plug sockets to match these to your chosen wall, but there are several reasons why this is not an ideal solution.
Why You Shouldn't Paint Existing Switches and Sockets
Unprimed plastic finishes will not allow paint to adhere well, and often results in the paint beading and separating on the surface, particularly on shiny surfaces. This will lead to a patchy finish that will likely look worse than by leaving the white switch in place. Not only does this yield an undesirable effect, but paint may chip and flake away at the lightest touch. Paint does not bind well shiny or glossy surfaces, and it is highly likely the paint may not dry at all.
Unless you have an incredibly steady hand, keeping the paint away from the mechanical switch itself may prove difficult. One wrong move, and the paint may seep in between the narrow space between the plate and the switch. If this dries, you are at risk of seizing the switch, making it unusable. There is also the chance that you could seal the socket to the wall, leading to difficulties removing the socket in case of problem occurring in future.
This leads us onto our most important factor. Painting any electrical outlet while still fitted to the wall is extremely dangerous. Wet paint can access plug socket holes, or seep through the switch into the wiring behind, causing electrical faults or even electrical shock.
However, for those who would love to match their switch and sockets seamlessly into their room design, we have the solution!
The Paintable Collection
The new Paintable Collection from The Soho Lighting Co. has revolutionised the way that we use colour and space. These sockets and switches come primed and ready for painting, allowing them to seamlessly blend with your chosen paint. One size never fits all when it comes to interior design, and with the paintable, you can tailor your sockets and switches to match your colour scheme with no hassle, and with safety being the utmost priority.
After wiring in your chosen switches and sockets, and before attaching the front plate into position, simply paint the front plate to match your wall and allow to dry thoroughly before clipping the plate into place. The plates are primed with white primer, so whether your walls boast bold hues or subtle tones, the Paintable Collection will blend seamlessly with your colour scheme. And with several dimmer, toggle, and rocker switch finish options, you can add that extra touch to your interior.
The beauty of paintable light switches and sockets lies in their versatility. Unlike conventional outlets that impose limitations on design choices, these innovative solutions offer true personalisation. Whether you're undergoing a complete renovation or simply seeking to update the look of a room, paintable sockets provide the flexibility needed to realise your interior design project.
Reinventing your homes interior design is becoming an increasingly popular task for homeowners, and tips, tricks, and hacks offer a way for people to undertake DIY projects with relatively little experience. However, these options are not always practical or safe, and one such hack you might be wondering about is whether you can paint your […]
Colours hold the power to transform a space. Your personal style, as well as the energy you wish to create, plays an important part in the decisions you make when selecting your interior design palette. Choosing carefully leads to a wonderfully cohesive interior that can help to relax or revitalise.
Grey is out, and while neutral tones offer a calming ambience, incorporating brighter colours can inject vitality and energy into your home. In this guide, we will explore how you can use bolder, brighter hues with confidence, and design a space that radiates warmth and positivity and push back the gloomy transition from Winter to Spring.
Choose a Dominant Colour
When incorporating brighter colours into your interior design scheme, it helps to have a basic understand of colour theory.
Different colours evoke specific emotions and moods in different people, and these can influence our perceptions and behaviours. The colour wheel consists of a rainbow, with one side containing warm tones while the other side containing cooler tones.
Colours on the warmer side of the colour wheel such as yellow, orange, and coral are typically associated with warmth, creativity, and enthusiasm, making them ideal for infusing vitality into your living space. Colours on the cooler side such as greens, blues, and greys inspire relaxation, and are typically viewed as more relaxing than their warm counterparts.
Using this basic understanding of the way colours influence how we feel, you can begin to explore the atmosphere you wish to create and select a dominant colour that works in unison with that intended purpose. Do you want your living room to be a haven of serenity, or an energetic entertainment space? Is your kitchen a vibrant family space to begin the day or a calm area that slowly sets your day in motion? Opt for hues that resonate with your intentions as well as complementing your personal style.
Balance with Neutrals
It’s important to balance brighter colours with a neutral tone to prevent visual overload, and striking a harmonious balance is key to a cohesive design. Pair vibrant hues with neutral tones such as soft greys, crisp whites, or earth tone beiges to create a balanced and inviting space. Neutral tones serve as the perfect contrast, allowing brighter colours to take centre stage while lending a sense of balance and sophistication to your interiors.
Experiment with Accent Pieces
Incorporating brighter colours through accent pieces is a versatile way to infuse personality and flair into your home. Introducing pops of colour through decorative pillows, artwork, or even lighting can elevate a space effectively without the need for a total interior design overhaul. Accent pieces serve as a focal point to your room, adding dimension and charm without overwhelming the senses.
Personalise with Texture and Pattern
Textures play a pivotal role in enhancing the visual impact of colours within your home. Experiment with fabrics, glass, wood, and metals to add depth and dimension. Textured finishes such as brushed metals work beautifully as sockets and switches to create depth, while glass lighting adds style and character. Mix and match metals and materials to create a visual contrast and use textures to break up your space.
Consider Your Lighting
When working with brighter colours, consider how the space will be lit. Natural lighting represents the vibrancy of colours more effectively than artificial lighting, so choosing the right lighting for your space is key. High CRI (Colour Rendering Index) lighting works to represent colours more accurately than low CRI lighting. If you would like to read more about this type of lighting, you can visit our blog ‘What are High CRI Downlights’ to learn more.
For small or dimly lit areas, opt for lighter shades to maximise that sense of openness and brightness. Strategically placed mirrors, and light layering work well to create the illusion of space. Choose High CRI downlights to make the most of your chosen colours, and balance this with a pendant or wall light, and watch as your cosy space comes alive.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Colours hold the power to transform a space. Your personal style, as well as the energy you wish to create, plays an important part in the decisions you make when selecting your interior design palette. Choosing carefully leads to a wonderfully cohesive interior that can help to relax or revitalise. Grey is out, and while […]