Living room lighting scheme

THE RIGHT LIGHTING CAN MAKE OR BREAK A SCHEME, ESPECIALLY IN THE LIVING ROOM. WE ASKED THREE PROS TO SHARE THEIR EXPERT ADVICE

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We demand a lot from our living rooms, asking them to serve as everything from places to relax in to entertaining family spaces for movie nights and even working from home offices. Yet when it comes to lighting, there are so many ways that your living room can work harder for you, while also offering a little extra panache in the style stakes. We asked an interior designer and two lighting brand experts to share their know-how on getting your living room lighting spot-on.

GO BACK TO BASICS

'Let's start by saying there's no right or wrong way to light a living room,' says Bryony.

'They come in all shapes and sizes - but they can often be overlooked when it comes to lighting,' Jo says, adding, 'Living rooms also host so many activities – from relaxing to entertaining so the lighting needs to be versatile. Layered ambient, task and accent lighting is essential to avoid harsh shadows and create a warm, inviting space that adapts to every mood and moment.'

Luke says, 'Lighting in a living room is generally more straightforward than in a kitchen or bathroom, which demands task lighting and coordination with joinery or cabinetry. One of the main considerations will be homeowner preference - likes and dislikes, and how they use the room. This will shape the lighting scheme.'

LEARN TO LAYER YOUR LIGHT

'A well layered lighting scheme adds aesthetic depth to the space,' says Luke, 'offering flexibility to create different moods using the lighting.