Lighting: Designer Tips

Lighting: your décor’s best ally 

Whether natural or artificial, lighting is one of the most important elements in space planning. You’ll notice that in design and architecture magazines, photographs are taken using natural light. Any artificial lighting is turned off beforehand—and that’s never by accident.

Why? Natural light reveals the true nature of colors and materials. That’s why we so deeply appreciate homes with generous fenestration that lets beautiful daylight in.

“When I choose materials and colors for my clients, I always make sure to validate them under natural light—and I always recommend my clients do the same. For example, it’s best to avoid finalizing paint samples in the evening… you might regret it !”

— Marie-Ève Cloutier

Artificial lighting, on the other hand, is used to create ambiance, while decorative fixtures add style and complete a design. Artificial lighting also includes task lighting—for example, lighting in a kitchen or office.

Decorative fixtures: long live ambient lighting! 

This type of fixture adds the finishing touch to a room and gives it style. Decorative lighting brings character—even when it’s turned off.

Lighting is a powerful tool to create ambiance and highlight furniture and textures within a space:

• Under-vanity lighting in a bathroom
• Lighting inside a glass cabinet
• Wall sconces that wash the wall
• In-floor recessed lighting to enhance textures

Pro tip: use dimmers. They’re extremely useful for flexible, comfortable lighting that can be adjusted throughout the day or evening.

Dare to add a spectacular touch

Artificial lighting can also be dramatic and contribute to a true wow effect. For example, lighting a beautiful architectural staircase enhances its beauty and character. It can also be functional by illuminating the steps— why not combine form and function?

Three mistakes to avoid 

• Creating lighting that is too harsh or too cool (discomfort)
• Installing a workstation facing a window (glare)
• Installing a workstation with your back to a window (screen reflections)

Tip: positioning a workstation sideways to a window is generally more comfortable.

Color temperature matters

Choosing the right light color is essential. In residential settings, the most commonly used color temperatures are 2700K, 3000K, and 3500K.

Color temperature is measured in Kelvin (K). The lower the number, the warmer the light. The higher the number, the cooler the light.

• 2700K to 3000K: ideal for ambiance
• 3500K: ideal for kitchens or offices

You can read this article from Multi Luminaire, which explains the topic in detail.

Lighting from warmest to coolest 

Our Quebec favorites — lighting brands 

• Luminaire Authentik
• Lambert et fils
• Amulette
• Hamster

Just as you would consult an advisor when choosing your Isothermic doors and windows, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a design professional in your area. After all—to each their own expertise!