4 Lighting Mistakes Not To Make, According To Designers

When decorating your space, lighting should be at the top of your list. “Lighting is the most important element in interiors; it sets the mood for the entire space,” says Gabriela Eisenhart, the founder of Silo Studios in Atlanta, Georgia. “I always address lighting first when designing a space.” However, there are a few common lighting pitfalls that designers will want you to be sure to avoid. To ensure that your home’s lighting is as functional and aesthetically pleasing as possible, steer clear of the four common mistakes below. 

Not Choosing An Assortment Of Fixtures That Blend Together Nicely  

Lighting is fun to shop for given all of the different styles of pieces available. “As long as the lighting meets the functional requirements, there is no reason not to have fun and experiment with mixing styles, colors, and adding different lamp shades for an additional layer of color, pattern, and texture,” says Richmond-based Sara HIllery, the founder of Sara Hillery Interior Design. Of course, be sure that the pieces you do select are still cohesive within your space. “It’s important that all of the fixtures of your home work together to enhance the overall design aesthetic and not compete with one another,” says Elizabeth O’Neal, the founder of Elizabeth O’Neal Interiors in Raleigh, North Carolina. 

Not Paying Attention To Height And Scale

These are two key factors that will make or break your lighting scheme, designers say. “Dining room chandeliers are usually hung much too high,” says Shani Core, who prefers them to hang 32 inches above the dining table. “Before ordering your chandelier or lantern, please ensure they include enough chain for the light to hang at the proper height,” adds the Palm Beach-based founder of Shani Core Interiors. 

Not Opting For Dimmers

Consider dimmers your new BFF. “LED lights, especially, can distort paint colors and change the overall feeling of a room,” Core says. “I prefer to keep all LED lights on the lowest dimmer setting possible and on a warmer setting to mimic candlelight.” When it comes to bulbs, Richmond is partial to 2700 Kelvin, which she says create a warm, inviting glow. 

Not Layering Your Lighting

Lighting is not a one and done deal and you must layer various types throughout a room. “Most rooms need multiple sources of lighting—ambient, accent, and task lighting,” says Gaia Guidi Filippi, the founder of Gaia G Interiors in Dallas, Texas. “This is fundamental for function, but also to make a space inviting and comfortable.” Adds Eisenhart, “A common mistake is relying solely on overhead lighting, which results in a lack of atmosphere.”