Art and Light- The importance of lighting up spaces

“I’ve known Anna Scott for a little over a decade now. In this time, I’ve observed and grown to respect Anna’s keen eye for design coupled with the rare ability to communicate what it is that she visualizes. The truth is, few visual artists have much talent in terms of communicating their visions. Having Anna contribute her design theories and insights on this site will be of great value to all of my customers who might need some hints on how to incorporate artwork into their homes as well as for those interested in learning the tools that make interior design work. I hope you enjoy these insights and tips as much as I do!.” – Chase Allen

Lighting may seem like an afterthought when it comes to decorating your room the way you envision it, but I’ll be honest, I think lighting may be up there as one of the most effective implements of good design. Light can emphasize and deemphasize, depending on how it’s used. In many older houses or houses with some odd or less than ideal features, softer and more muted lighting can really forgive or deter the eye from noticing such flaws, whereas light can highlight a sculpture or piece of art or furniture and emphasize a design changing element of the room. Light can be a work of art in and of itself or it can highlight art and other special features in a room. Get lights that go well with your furniture and look like good pieces on their own, even. Even if you need a reading lamp, you won’t regret having a beautiful one that adds to the space.

For starters, consider the mood you want your space to be most of the time. If you want cozy and dim, like a well worn leather chair in a library, using darker colors with dim lighting is great for achieving this effect. Put a warm spot light over or under a hanging sculpture or framed wall art to highlight the piece(s). You’d be surprised how nicely even a beautiful table lamp can draw the eye, while still keeping that dim and cozy appeal to the room.  Brass or copper colors on lamps are ideal in these environments, as they reflect the little bits of light in the room, their glimmer catching the eye, while not competing with other art or decor. If you are wanting a bright and cozy room, like one that you’d paint, cook, or read in, consider lighter walls, more muted wall tones, and several sources and levels of lighting for use depending, on the time of day and the natural light that streams in. Please avoid using fan lights or one sourced lighting on the ceiling. This will tend to draw the eye to the utilitarian, while failing to produce a layered light source, which is so essential for good design. Recessed or modern LED options that are minimal in color and shape will do nicely in a more contemporary space. If you’re adding a bit of eccentricity to a modern or traditional space, go with a bold color lamp or wacky chandelier or even retro floor lamp to make a pop statement. Brushed metal, wood, retro colored or wrought iron lamps (table or floor) can be added to most types of decor. If traditional or vintage is more your jam, consider pairing simple metal or wood floor lamps with vintage glass table lamps that will go well with recessed lighting or a large vintage overheard statement fixture you might want. Also, warm is usually best in bulbs.

Light doesn’t have to compete with other art. The two can actually accent each other. A good example of this is a lamp (more traditional or coastal look) on a table under a hanging sculpture upon which the light cast a warm glow. Another example is a hanging sculpture with a spot light or recessed lighting (tradition or contemporary) over it for quite a striking statement. Keep it simple by starting minimally and slowly adding, so you can see what pieces work well together before you add much more. 

Anna Scott
November 1, 2019