Layering Like a Pro for Fall Daylight Saving Time!

It is Fall Daylight Saving Time! As sunset seems to arrive much too early and sunrise seems to come much too late, we get ready to turn back our clocks by one hour on Sunday morning (Saturday night for those of you who change the clocks before heading to bed)! Is there a better way do prepare than to focus on lighting? More specifically, layering lighting for the perfect ambiance in what should be your most comfortable space -- your home!

When our daylight hours shorten for the fall and winter seasons, we (for obvious reasons) turn to artificial forms of lighting. Changing out some of your current lighting fixtures for something "new," is an easy way to change the ambiance of your home as well as the overall design esthetic of your space. But many people wonder how to do lighting like the pros. You know those homes that seem to have the perfect tone, mood, ambiance when you visit or see their images in magazines or on TV. The secret? Layered lighting. Lighting and design pros know that you could have the best decor and furniture, but all is for naught without effectively layering your lighting. Well, we are going to shed some light on the secrets behind layering light so you can set the right tone and mood for your home.

What is layering?

Layering, essentially, is combining different types of lighting in any given space creating a particular mood or ambiance for the space. There are three key elements to layering lighting; ambient, task, and accent.

Ambient Light

Consider ambient light your foundation or “canvas” of sorts to create the overall lighting in your space. It’s typically linked to the first switch you hit when you enter any room. Generally, it consists of the overhead lighting in your room It can come from multiple sources — think along the lines of recessed lighting or a single, central source — think along the lines of flush mounted, semi-flush mounted fixtures, pendant light, or even a chandelier. Ambient light provides comfort and general illumination to your space by spreading uniform, diffuse light throughout the room.

For example, this bedroom below has recessed lights in the ceiling for overall, general lighting.

Task Light

Consider task lighting your “work” lighting. Many immediately think of under cabinet lighting, or vanity mirror lighting, even a desk or bedside lamp. Task lighting allows you to actually see what you are doing in any given task. Sometimes task lights are hidden, as in the case of under cabinet lighting, but it can also be a decorative lamp, like a bedside reading lamp or desk lamp.

For example, this very funky copper desk lamp provides ample reading light for this desktop. It could also serve, at the same time as accent lighting (see below).

Accent Lighting

This is where people can get really creative with their lighting! Think of accent lighting as highlighters for your space — drawing the eye to certain areas of the room you wish to bring attention. For example, highlight your artwork over your mantle, architectural feature such as a tray ceiling or uplighting your prized indoor tropical plant. Accent lighting can also be a decorative showpiece that stands out as a design centerpiece — perhaps an oversized, brightly colored table lamp placed upon a pedestal in the corner of a room. Wall sconces, small, directional recessed lights, and even some chandeliers also fall into the accent lighting category.

Notice how the draperies and artwork behind the bed are illuminated with directional recessed lighting (below).

When thoughtfully planned and curated, layered lighting can help to transform your space into a stunning centerpiece that welcomes all visitors. We love this kitchen because it has all three elements of layered lighting. Who wouldn't want to be a part of the action in here?!! Notice the ambient lighting (overhead recessed), task lighting (under-cabinet), and accent lighting (inside upper cabinets and chandelier over dining table). They all work together, harmoneously.

How about the "Hollywood Glam" feel of this bedroom where elements of layered lighting come together flawlessly!

The layered lighting design in these two rooms (below) featured on HGTV.com are also notable. We love the ambient lighting overhead, the standing floor lamps for reading, and the accent lighting highlighting the artifacts in the display boxes and art lighting on the wall. Simple, but very effective.

Some Secrets for Success:

Use dimmer switches!
Using lighting control devices such as dimmers allows you to fully customize the ambient lighting in any room. This is even easier with today’s smart devices which allow you to control the lighting directly from your device.

Pay attention to lumens!
Lumens is mearurement of the amount of brightness any particular light bulb emits. Fewer lumens equals dimmer light; higher lumens equals brighter light.

Lamps can serve multiple kinds of lighting!
Lamps can be used for ambient, task, and accent lighting. Don’t be afraid to use a variety of lamps in your space!

Remember the sun and moon in your plans!
Natural light (and the lack thereof) will play a key role in how your layering looks at any given time. Make sure you account for windows or outside light that may affect your design goals.

Layering your lighting design allows you to use accent lights in conjunction with ambient and task lighting to create a stunning overall effect in your home. With BRG’s extensive array of lighting options, we can help you thoughtfully curate an eclectic arrangement of fixtures to create a cohesive and functional layering for your home.

Also, in anticipation of this fall's Daylight Saving Time, we invite you to stop by our 50,000 sq. ft. flagship consignment showroom during business hours -- Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and see our selection of lighting fixtures including pendants, chandeliers, table lamps, floor lamps, and sconses of all styles, shapes, and periods. You certainly will not be disappointed!

By the way, don't forget to set your clocks back one hour this Saturday night or Sunday morning!

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