Impact of Proper Lighting in a Space

Let There Be Light
by Michael Lichtenstein of  The Lighting Gallery
http://www.thelighting-gallery.com/

A well designed lighting plan will ensure the room is properly lit, adds visual interest to the space, provides flexibility to respond to different lighting needs and even saves the home owner money by eliminating unnecessary fixtures.  There are two key components to the design and implementation of an effective lighting plan - using the design technique known as Light Layering...

By using multiple sources of light you ensure the room will be properly illuminated; create visual interest within the space; provide flexibility to create multiple lighting moods of looks and eliminate unnecessary fixtures.

Task Lighting - helps you preform specific tasks.  Optimal fixtures include recessed, track and under cabinet lighting.

Accent/Architectural Lighting - adds drama to the room by bringing attention to a specific decorative or architectural detail.

Ambient (general) Lighting - provides general illumination to the area filling in the shadows left from the other two layers.  This is accomplished with ceiling or wall mounted fixtures.

It is critical to begin discussions about the lighting plan during the initial design conversations.  By incorporating your lighitng plan into the overall design concept you will ensure that the various design elements support each other.

Commercial and Community Projects

Over the years we have worked on various types of spaces.  The most important thing to remember in these cases is to maintain a balance between functional and aesthetics.  Consideration for the end users and creating an appealing focal point is moot if the materials and finishes are not durable.  Whether an Office Space, Conference Room, Public Library or Community Center we utilize materials that are easy to maintain and last a long time.  Whithin those perameters it is easy to create a beautife design.

I have put together a clip of our more recent Commercial & Community projects. Take a look ... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afoevAQj9nQ&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

I would love to hear your thoughts!

Tips for your Home Library

If you have built up a collection of books over the years a home library can help you organize your books. 

It will make it easier to find books and make reading fun and relaxing within the comforts of your home.  When designing a home library one must consider the space, style of shelves and types of books you have. You will most likely want to work within a space you already have by adding a wall unit that is aesthetically pleasing and functional as a good organization system.  If your space is small, matching the finish of the library unit with your wall finish will visually minimize it.

Built-in bookshelves can provide floor-to-ceiling storage and free up the maximum amount of floor space.  Closed cabinets with glass panels would be preferable if your collection includes antique books that you want to preserve.  Think about adding a couple of drawers for notepads and pens you might need if you will be taking notes or doing work in this space as well.  Maximize your capacity by decorating the bookshelves with personal items, such as photographs and souvenirs which can break up the rows of books visually.  This also allows room to expand as your collection grows!