DESIGN HANDBOOK
Lighting can be an impactful element in bringing your space together and setting the perfect mood in your home. Not only is lighting one of the most shopped categories at Kathy Kuo Home, but it’s also a topic that we always get questions about! “How do I choose a chandelier? What sized table lamp do I need? Track lighting or recessed lighting? And what’s the deal with dimmers?” Keep scrolling for Kathy’s tips on how to pick the best lighting to make a grand statement in your home.
When designing an entryway or any grand space, especially one with an open floor plan, this gives a perfect opportunity to allow an overhead lighting fixture to make a statement and steal the show. One of my personal favorites is our Jalbala Antique Gold Lotus Pendant. This piece adds geometric and dimensional glamour, which really helps elevate most spaces since it’s also warm and rustic.
Lighting can add to or subtract from the overall colors of a room. These woven drum pendants in this kitchen complete the space by bringing together the wicker and rattan decor on the countertops and shelving.
Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely adore neutral spaces and subtle warm tones. But an extra pop of color or texture brings the space to another level in terms of dimension and depth. With the majority of this space is light and bright, the lighting feature contrasts well and is for sure an attention grabber.
Imagine a big airy room full of neutral tones and natural light. Just describing it feels like a breath of fresh air, right? So much of how we perceive space and openness actually comes from light!
Dark colors or insufficient light makes a room feel smaller while light colors and good lighting make a room feel larger. If you’re looking to open up a small room or narrow hallway, consider painting with light colors and installing lots of lights.
Pendant Lighting; Suspended from the ceiling, a pendant light directs its light downward, typically over a table or kitchen island. Our wide collection of pendant lighting can provide ambient or task lighting, and you can find them in a variety of design styles.
Chandelier: Suspended from the ceiling, chandeliers direct their light upward, typically over a table or entryway. They are a beautiful, elegant, and add a sense of luxury to the home. We get loads of really good questions about chandeliers, how to choose them, which rooms to place them in, how to style them. Check out our Chandelier Cheat Sheet for answers to those questions and more!
Wall Sconce: Surface-mounted to the wall, sconces can direct light upwards or downwards, and their covers or shades add a stylish touch to a room. Our sconces offer versatility: adjustable hinges and heights reinforce the flexibility and functionality of these lighting fixtures. Alone or in a pair, the sconce is perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms, entryways, and any place where a strong lighting statement is needed.
Lamps: As pieces in a room, lamps are extremely versatile and portable sources of light. Most lamps direct light downward and are often used as task lights, particularly for reading or lounging.
Pro Tip: If you’re going to incorporate floor lamps into your design, be cautious of placing them so that they won’t get knocked over and the cords won’t be in the way. Floor lamps can also be difficult if you have pets or young kids.
Need design help? In addition to being a source for beautiful high quality furnishings and decor, Kathy Kuo Home has a team of professional interior designers that are ready to assist with all of your interior design needs. Our services provide multiple layout and design options that fit your style and budget for any room. You will work with a team of designers and project managers to help you truly love where you live.
Call (888) 908-3486 or email designs@kathykuohome.com today to get started!
Need design help? In addition to being a source for beautiful high quality furnishings and decor, Kathy Kuo Home has a team of professional interior designers that are ready to assist with all of your interior design needs. Our services provide multiple layout and design options that fit your style and budget for any room. You will work with a team of designers and project managers to help you truly love where you live.
Call (888) 908-3486 or email designs@kathykuohome.com today to get started!
