What Does a Lighting Designer Do?

You hit the light switch and turn on a light. It is as simple as that… or is it? Perhaps in the 19th century when the first light switch was invented, that was the basic function… but we have moved on considerably since then.

There is now an acknowledgement not only of the practical virtues of lighting but also of the importance of lighting in accentuating the finest features of a home. And that appreciation of the value of illumination can now be combined with the latest cutting-edge technologies to create the smart home of your dreams.

Lighting is an invaluable design tool for transforming a space, for creating areas of light and shade, for highlighting the stunning features of a home and for creating rooms with a unique atmosphere whether that is a cosy, warm nook or bright, impressive kitchen.

A lighting designer is essential to highlight a home’s best features. They understand how light works, both its functionality and its characteristics, and how to use it to the best advantage. They know how to use diffused lighting to give a gentler touch or bright, statement lights for creating drama and impact.

There are four fundamental forms of lighting in interior design: ambient lighting which provides overall illumination; task lighting which is focused and bright for specific functions such as reading or cooking; accent lighting to highlight the particular feature of a space such as a piece of artwork or architectural feature; and decorative lighting such as a chandelier which provides light but is also aesthetically pleasing in its own right.

Lighting designers are experts in the art of illumination and can design solutions which can enhance a home, literally shining a light on its assets.

Careful choice of the light source – be it downlights, uplights, wall lights, floor lights or integrated architectural lighting – and expert placement can transform a room’s character and bring it to life. They use a variety of lights to create brilliant, bright spaces or comfortable, quiet areas. Lights can be used to highlight a painting on a wall or to create an intimate mood in the home cinema.

A lighting designer also knows how to use lights in conjunction with natural light and works with technology to make adjustments according to the time of day or year.

But impressive lighting goes beyond the aesthetic… automated home lighting can be pre-programmed or activated by the touch of a button and from anywhere in the world. Lighting specialists can create a fully integrated system which can be adapted for each room. There will be no unsightly or intrusive wires – instead rooms can be designed to be beautiful, but completely functional, thanks to the advances in technology. This gives the added benefit of being able to save electricity by instructing lights to be on only when required and they can also be activated as needed for state-of-the-art security measures.

At Clarke Infinity, we are experts in automated home lighting and would be happy to share our expertise to help you create your perfect home. Contact us here or call us on 01277 624444 for more information.