Let there be light — 3 tips for using lighting to change the ambience of a communal space

Successful lighting is crucial for effective interior design, yet it is often overlooked or not given enough consideration. Lighting can make or break a design, setting the mood of a space, whether you want to create an intimate, sultry reception area or a bright, bold workspace. Used effectively, lighting can highlight interesting architectural features or disguise areas that are less than perfect. It can also alter room dimensions, making small rooms feel open and airy or large rooms feel cozy and inviting.

Lighting Tips for Communal Spaces

Washing the Walls with Light

In a small room, washing the walls with an even layer of light can create the illusion of expanded space. This technique involves using wall-mounted lights or strategically placed lamps to spread light evenly across the walls. When paired with light-colored walls, this effect is amplified, making the room feel larger and more open. This is especially useful in corporate spaces where a sense of openness can enhance productivity and comfort.

Creating Soft Pools of Light

For larger rooms, creating soft pools of light focused on important objects or areas can make the space feel more intimate. This technique involves using floor lamps, table lamps, or spotlighting to highlight specific areas, drawing attention away from the overall room and creating cozy, inviting spaces. This approach is ideal for luxury interior design, where emphasis on particular design elements can elevate the overall aesthetic.

Lighting the Shorter Wall

In narrow rooms, placing lights along the shorter wall can draw the eye away from the longer walls, creating a perception of a wider space. This method can be particularly effective in high-end corporate interiors, where maximizing the functionality and comfort of every area is crucial. Use wall sconces, uplights, or strategically positioned spotlights to achieve this effect, ensuring the light is soft and inviting.

Layered Lighting for Versatility

Incorporate layered lighting to add versatility and depth to your communal spaces. Layered lighting involves combining ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a balanced and adaptable environment. Ambient lighting provides overall illumination, task lighting focuses on specific work areas, and accent lighting highlights architectural features or artwork. This approach allows you to adjust the lighting to suit different activities and moods, enhancing the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your space.

Utilizing Natural Light

Maximize the use of natural light to create a welcoming and energy-efficient environment. Large windows, skylights, and glass doors can flood communal spaces with daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting and creating a bright, cheerful atmosphere. Consider using light-colored or reflective surfaces to bounce natural light around the room, further enhancing the sense of openness and positivity.

Smart Lighting Solutions

Incorporate smart lighting solutions to add convenience and customization to your communal spaces. Smart lighting systems allow you to control the intensity, color, and timing of your lights remotely, providing flexibility and efficiency. These systems can be programmed to adjust the lighting based on the time of day or occupancy, ensuring optimal illumination and energy savings.

Conclusion

Lighting plays a pivotal role in the success of interior design projects, particularly in communal and corporate spaces. By employing these interior design lighting tips, you can create environments that are both functional and visually appealing. Whether you’re aiming for a luxury interior design or optimizing corporate interiors in San Francisco, effective lighting can transform your space and leave a lasting impression on everyone who enters.

If you need help assessing and improving the lighting in your communal office spaces, we’re here to assist. Contact me at liza@lizaevans.com to arrange a consultation and receive our professional assessment. We look forward to working with you to create a space that truly shines.