Lighting matters. When it comes to realizing your design goals, how you light your space can make every bit of difference in a room’s function and visual appeal. Here, interior designer Shaleesa Mize with Pacific Design Co. in Spokane helps us navigate the challenge of lighting.
Scale and rhythm: When considering new fixtures for a space, one of the most important factors to determine is the scale of the fixture in the room. Unfortunately, this is commonly overlooked and can be a difficult process for many. The complexity of this task increases with features such as high ceilings, large open rooms or oversized islands — all common trends in today’s design world.
The size, quantity and spacing between fixtures are important details, and if one of these is done improperly, the result will feel wrong. Too many recessed cans out of fear of “not enough light” can alternatively end up looking like an airstrip. Too small of island pendants can accidentally date your kitchen back to the mini-pendant fad. And finally, the hang height of fixtures also needs to be considered so the fixture feels like it’s part of the room without causing glare from an exposed bulb in a direct sight line.
Tip: An easy rule to remember is 4-inch cans, consider 4 feet spacing and 6-inch cans, consider 6 feet of space. Pendant lights between 14-18 inches in diameter usually call for a set of three, while oversized pendants in the range of 20-24 inches can usually drop to just two fixtures.
Balance: In addition to scale, balance is another important consideration for fixture placement. Balance does not mean symmetrical! In fact, asymmetrical placement can also create balance in a space, depending on other factors of the design. Perfect symmetry can feel formal and traditional, while asymmetry can lean a bit more casual or modern.
Tip: Get playful! Consider an asymmetrical chandelier in an otherwise symmetrical space to bring in an unexpected feature. Too much symmetry can feel boring and predictable.
Color temperature: One of the biggest mistakes made in lighting is using the wrong color temperature. Thankfully, it’s also the easiest to fix by switching the bulbs. Many homeowners make the mistake of purchasing bulbs with cooler temperatures, including the “daylight” option, thinking it will feel more natural. Also, don’t be fooled by language such as “bright white,” which sounds appealing to those who want to ensure a space is well lit. However, bright white is a cool color temperature that will lead to the space feeling sterile and harsh. Adequate lighting comes from the layout, spacing and ability for a fixture to diffuse the light.
Tip: Usually called “warm white” or “soft white” bulbs, the color temperature I prefer is typically around 2700 kelvin. This warm color temperature is truly the way to a space that feels most comfortable and cozy.
Layers of light: It is important to have several layers of lighting, as they have different purposes and can also provide more control in setting the tone of the room while also keeping function in mind. Ambient lighting, which is typically overhead lighting such as recessed cans, light the overall space. A second layer of lighting, known as task lighting, also has a functional purpose — such as under cabinet lighting to create a well-lit counter surface for food preparation. The final layer is accent lighting, often found through sconces and other decorative fixtures. These create focal points to direct attention to a special area such as an art collection or decorative display.
Tip: Consider placing the majority of your fixtures on a dimmer switch, which can transform your space from bright and well-lit to a moody and enchanting atmosphere. Keep in mind, both light and shadow create dynamic dimensions.
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Fixture style and shape: Lighting is one of the most important details of a space. Poor lighting affects the everyday functionality of a space, but if the style of the fixture itself is not aesthetically appropriate, it can also impact the quality of light as well as how a room feels. When the lines, shape and finishes of the light fixture does not take into consideration the style of the rest of the home, something will always feel disjointed. Alternatively, when the style of a light fixture is thoughtfully considered, it will be the jewelry of the home, flowing seamlessly or maybe even creating a unique statement.
Tip: Mix up your metals. If you have used a specific metal finish on your plumbing and hardware, consider a different finish on the light fixtures. Thoughtfully pairing a variety of finishes will create more visual interest, whereas keeping one consistent finish throughout the home will feel a bit plain.N
As seen in the 2025 Winter/Spring edition