Find out how to introduce various layers of lights to add an element of richness and depth to the decor of your home

A well-designed lighting scheme incorporates multiple sources of light which can be used to perform specific tasks and activities within the home. The different types of lighting include downlighting, uplighting, LED strip lights, decorative lights and wall lights, which come together to create a layered lighting scheme. This guide answers five design-related questions about how to incorporate layered lighting within home decor.

What are the different layers of lighting?

• Ambient lighting forms the first layer of lighting, which is responsible for the overall illumination of the room. It works as a base layer on which the other two layers of light are added.
• Task lighting or focused lighting forms the second layer of lighting which allows one to perform specific tasks, such as reading, cooking, studying, shaving or applying makeup.
• The last layer of lighting is accent lighting, which covers a small area and is strategically located to highlight certain architectural features or particular objects.

What are the functions of different layers of light?

• Ambient lighting allows one to see the surroundings and perform some basic activities. It is the combination of natural light and overhead lighting.
• Task lighting illuminates work areas such as the countertops, the desk or a reading nook. Task lighting avoids casting either a glare and or shadows on the work surface.
• Accent lighting highlights areas of interest such as artwork, design details, wall decor and photos. This is a great way to add an element of drama into the area of focus. Also, accent lights function as secondary source of light which can be cleverly introduced in areas that don’t get enough ambient light.

Which light fixtures are best suited for the different layers of light?

For ambient lighting

Natural light (direct or indirect sunlight) contributes to the ambient lighting of the home during the day. The sources of natural light are windows, skylights, atriums, balconies and courtyards.

Light fixtures such chandeliers, pendant lights, semi-flush or flush-mounted fixtures, or a ceiling fan with an attached light fixture, can all contribute to the ambient lighting of the home. Also, recessed cove lighting and upward-facing wall sconces can provide subtle ambient light.

For task lighting

Focused lighting can be achieved with table lamps, desk lamps, adjustable floor lamps and swing arm lamps, directed track lights, bracket lights, under-cabinet lights, recessed lights and wall sconces.

For accent lighting

Accent lighting includes uplights and picture lights that bring direct attention to photographs or art, while rope lights, LED lights, niche lighting and directed track lighting create focal points on the walls. For maximum impact, make sure that the illumination produced by the accent lighting is three times brighter than the surrounding space.

How should we incorporate task lighting into different areas of the home?

Install bracket lights or wall sconces on either side of the bathroom vanity for performing activities like shaving or applying makeup.

Introduce undercabinet lighting in the kitchen as it is the perfect way to light up the food preparation area of the countertop and dark corners of the kitchen. This form of lighting eliminates the shadows which are cast by the overhead cabinetry and oneself with just overhead lighting, which would be above and behind one.

Introduce lamps on either side of the bed to provide adequate light for reading.

An array of pendant lights can be introduced above the kitchen island and the dining table.

Do we require separate light fixtures for each layer of light?

Certain light fixtures can function as two layers of light. For instance,

Downlights such as pendant lights can be used for the ambient and task lighting of the home.

Track and recessed lighting can be incorporated in any of the lighting layers of the home.

Chandeliers with dimmer switches are perfect for the ambient and accent lighting of the home.