It was only a few years ago that when anyone mentioned the types of lighting we should know about that the first thing that came to mind was the type of bulb in question. We’d think about the differences between incandescent, fluorescent and LED lamps. While incandescent lamps are all but a thing of the past, fluorescent and LED lights are now the most commonly employed and there may be every likelihood that fluorescent lamps will soon be obsolete as well.
Much of this is because of the energy factor as LED lights are the most cost-effective to use with fluorescents a relatively close second. However, there are environmental and health issues that many consumers are concerned with too such as the gas in fluorescents and the potential harm to the environment. Also, the rapid blinking, usually undetected to the naked eye, is not safe for anyone suffering from any form of epilepsy.
That leaves us with LED lights and believe it or not, they shine just as brightly as any other type of lighting and cost much less to run. They last longer and can be retrofitted to suit any type of bulb base. With that in mind, and an eye toward environmentally safe and cost-effective LED lights, these are the most common types of indoor lighting you should know about.
Pendants
Whether used in home or commercial décor, pendant lights are actually designed much like the name implies. Pendant lights hang down from the ceiling much like a pendant would hang around your neck. Whether a simple line down or a twisted configuration of lines, these are typically dropped at least 30 cm from the ceiling. They are commonly used in kitchens and in the dining rooms of some of the most elegant restaurants in Malta. You can find examples of pendant fixtures on the Elektra lighting website. With that said, the way they are installed will probably vary between commercial and home fixtures, so do keep that in mind.
Track Lighting
Track lights are similar in function to recessed lighting except track lights protrude from the ceiling whereas recessed lights are fixed so that they are totally contained within a ceiling or wall. Track lighting is installed so that they focus light downward toward the very centre of a room and are often used in the hallways of fine hotels.
Recessed Lighting
As mentioned above, recessed lights are totally contained within the ceiling or wall so that the fixture is usually flush with the surface. Installing this type of lighting system would typically require the services of a professional electrician, but once installed form a type of lighting that is most unobtrusive.
Task Lighting
Task lighting is used to provide light to be focused on whatever project you have at hand. They can be installed over sinks, for example, to give ample light when washing dishes or they can be in a desktop lamp that can be swivelled and focused. There are several different types of freestanding desktop lamps typically used when working on crafts or with documents in fine print. However, don’t let the name fool you. There are several really decorative lamps and fixtures to choose from, so if it’s décor you are worried about, worry no more.
Ceiling Fixtures
Lighting housed in ceiling fixtures are quite common in many rooms where a reliable fixture is necessary. Often used in kitchens, they can be controlled with a simple on/off switch or dimmable if required. These are not like recessed lights, however, because it is usually one fixture bolted to the ceiling and usually in the centre of the room. When installed with a dimmable switch, they are also perfect within bedrooms because they don’t take up space on any surfaces you would rather use for holding jewellery cases and figurines.
Wall Sconces
Wall sconces are installed on walls, and they can either be direct wired or simply plugged in. While many people don’t like the plug-in models because of the electric cord running down the wall to a socket, the type installed in the wall usually requires an electrician. Either way, wall sconces bring back memories of days long gone. They were traditional in days when they held candles, so that should give you an idea of the kind of décor they would do well in.
Accent Lighting
Have you ever walked into a home or place of business where there is a light shining on a potted plant? These are what accent lights are all about. They call attention to specific items or furnishings. Accent lighting is often employed on works of art or installed in bookshelves to light up titles as the books are organized. The key point of accent lighting is to call attention to something, so there are a myriad of ways in which to use them.
Now that you have an idea of the different types of indoor lighting you can employ, it’s time to get creative!
