Common Lighting Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Lighting is one of the most powerful elements of interior design, yet it’s often an afterthought. The wrong lighting can make even the most beautifully designed space feel uncomfortable, uninviting, or impractical. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common lighting mistakes and provide expert advice on how to create a well-lit, functional, and stylish home.

1. Choosing the Wrong Fixture Size

One of the most frequent lighting mistakes is selecting fixtures that are too large or too small for the space. A chandelier that overwhelms a dining room or a tiny pendant in a grand entryway can throw off the entire balance of a room.

How to Get It Right:

- For dining room chandeliers, aim for a width that’s about half to two-thirds of your table’s width.

- In entryways or foyers, ensure the fixture is proportionate to the ceiling height—larger rooms can handle bigger statement pieces.

- For kitchen islands, space pendants 30–36 inches apart for even illumination.

🔗 Explore our collection of perfectly proportioned fixtures in the Clearance Lighting Section.

2. Ignoring the Importance of Layered Lighting

Many people rely on a single overhead light to illuminate an entire room, which creates harsh shadows and an unbalanced atmosphere. Without layered lighting, spaces lack depth, warmth, and functionality.

How to Get It Right:

Incorporate the three essential layers of lighting:

- Ambient Lighting: General illumination, such as ceiling lights and chandeliers.

- Task Lighting: Focused lighting for specific activities, like reading lamps or under-cabinet lights in the kitchen.

- Accent Lighting: Used to highlight artwork, architectural features, or decorative objects.

By combining these layers, you’ll create a balanced, inviting space.

🔗 Learn more about lighting layers in our expert Lighting Blog.

3. Using the Wrong Colour Temperature

Have you ever walked into a room and felt instantly uncomfortable without knowing why? The culprit is often incorrect colour temperature. Lighting that’s too cool (blue-toned) can feel sterile, while overly warm lighting (yellow-toned) can make a space feel dim or dated.

How to Get It Right:

- Use 2700K–3000K for warm, cosy spaces like bedrooms and living rooms.

- Opt for 3500K–4000K in kitchens and bathrooms for a crisp yet welcoming ambiance.

- Select 5000K+ for workspaces where bright, daylight-like illumination is needed.

🔗 Browse our wide range of indoor lighting solutions to find the perfect colour temperature for your home.

4. Not Considering Dimmers and Smart Controls

A room’s lighting needs change throughout the day, yet many people overlook dimmers and smart controls, limiting their ability to adjust brightness levels.

How to Get It Right:

- Install dimmers in living areas and bedrooms to transition from bright daytime light to a cosy evening glow.

- Upgrade to smart lighting that lets you control brightness, set schedules, and even change colour temperature via an app or voice command.

- Use motion sensors in hallways and outdoor areas for energy efficiency and convenience.

🔗 Want a more personalised lighting experience? Apply for our Trade Account for exclusive access to expert consultations and premium products.

5. Overlooking Outdoor Lighting

Neglecting outdoor lighting is a mistake that can affect both the aesthetics and security of your home. Many homeowners rely solely on a single porch light, leaving pathways, gardens, and patios poorly lit.

How to Get It Right:

- Use pathway lights to illuminate walkways and prevent tripping hazards.

- Install wall sconces or pendant lights for ambiance in patios and decks.

- Incorporate motion-activated security lights to enhance safety without unnecessary energy waste.

🔗 Transform your outdoor space with our Outdoor Lighting Collection.

Final Thoughts

Lighting has the power to elevate or diminish a space, and avoiding these common lighting mistakes can make a world of difference in your home. By choosing the right fixture size, layering your lighting, selecting the correct colour temperature, and embracing dimmable and smart solutions, you’ll create a functional, stylish, and comfortable atmosphere.

🔗 Still unsure about your lighting choices? Check out our expert guides in the Lighting Blog for more tips and inspiration.