In modern design interior lighting is a very important element...

The lighting bodies – lamps and chandeliers – are a very decorative element that can contribute to the general feel and esthetics of the space. This element is often in the focus of designers and it attracts a lot of attention from experts, and the general public.

Some famous lamps that are the works of designers can be called true little, sometimes big, pieces of art.

But, another factor is very important when it comes to lighting and interior design, and that is the atmosphere that can be achieved by using different shapes, types and intensities of light. All these factors add to the atmosphere of the room, but they change our perception of space size and shape.

The way lighting is set and the type of the chosen light are very important factors that can, combined with the colors in the space, the size of the space and the amount of natural light, influence the atmosphere immensely.

Built in lighting

One of the favored ways of lighting spaces in the past few years has been built in lighting, because of the effects on the space and the big possibilities of combining colors and shapes, and being flexible in the space. Built in lighting can mostly be seen on ceilings and walls, but a very impressive effect can be created by placing it on the floor. In this way built in lighting becomes an element of the floors and next to lighting the space can have a decorative role.

A great to have combination lighting in your space is to let more natural light in. Have big windows, it will pay off. But, don't just have naked windows, a rookie mistake that can cost you a lot of beauty. Give yourself the ability to control the amount of light in your room. How do you do that but with blinds. Blinds give you the possibility to adjust how much light you want in your space. Combined with great artificial lighting, it will give your space the perfect ratio and great beauty.

Color and shape

Additional benefits when putting floor lighting is the fact that this kind of lighting can be white but also in another not flashy color, depending on which space it is used in and what effect you want to achieve. No matter what color and shape you choose, if you adapt this kind of lighting a bit to suit your needs, the results will be rewarding.

Not depending on shape, the color of floor lighting can vary a lot, from non intrusive white tones to strong colors. Also, there are certain lights that change color which can give a space a special character. One is certain, in whatever way it is placed, floor lighting brings luxury and glamour but also limitless possibilities for playing in a space that can give amazing results.

Elements of floor lighting placed together in the right way can turn a common interior or exterior into a flawless combination of style and functionality.

Milan Budimkic is a creative freelance writer for industries that include but are not limited to the travel, sport, entertainment, internet marketing, and much more. When not blogging, Milan likes to travel and read a lot.

Add more space in your home by installing outdoor lights in your yard, so you can use this space even at night. Many homeowners fail to see the many benefits that come from adding outdoor lighting in their backyards. When you go beyond installing a light bulb at the doorway, you actually transform a wide space into a new “room” where you can relax after work, entertain guests, and spend quality time with your family. Here are some tips to help you choose the right outdoor lighting and properly install your light fixtures so that you can transform your yard into a usable outdoor space any time of the day.

Choosing Outdoor Lights

Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, have become a popular choice for outdoor lighting. These lights are preferred by most homeowners because of their style, design, and effect. When lighting your outdoor space, the goal is not to emit large amount of light, but to highlight particular areas and features that will help create a warm and inviting ambience.

Another outdoor lighting option would be a reflector light. This type of light casts a lot of light, unlike LED lights. In terms of energy consumption, a reflector light uses a 35-watt lamp while an LED only uses one watt. Another advantage of using LED lights is that they are programmable.

Low-voltage lighting is another favorite when it comes to outdoor lighting. While most homes utilize 120 volts of power, low-voltage lighting only uses about 12 volts, so there is no need for deep trenches that will hold the wiring. Low-voltage lights are quite versatile and can be used either for down-lighting or up-lighting

Additional Outdoor Lighting Options

Add charm in your evening landscape with artisan lights to illuminate a pathway or light a dining area. For a dramatic and eye-catching appeal, install a spotlight to feature a sparkling fountain. There are several small-sized spotlights available in the market, some are designed specifically for underwater lighting. Brightly colored Chinese lanterns add a festive oriental touch, while sheer globe lights create a soft romantic ambiance.

Installing Outdoor Lights

When installing outdoor landscape lighting around trees, avoid mounting them directly onto the trees with nails or screws. Driving nails or screws into growing trees would cause injury to the trees and this would trigger a healing response, similar to scar tissue that forms over a wound. If not monitored properly, the tree would eventually grow around the light fixture.

A better option for installing light fixtures onto trees is to use a strap device which is made of cloth or a nylon-type product that has a clip device which can be adjusted throughout the life of the tree.

You can also up-light using on-ground lights and avoid the dreaded "glare in the eye" hazard, or with an in-ground light. This type of lighting can also be adjusted to up-light and highlight the structure of trees.

When you take the time to carefully plan and select the your outdoor lighting, you do more than just add light, you add a safe and beautiful living space outside your home that you, your family, and your friends can all enjoy. Keep these tips in mind when looking for your landscape lighting fixtures and installing them out in your yard and be happy with the results!

Joan Silver is a known lighting expert from Capitol Lighting (1800lighting.com) and a fan of all things “lighting”. She currently provides customers and designers with robust information on their lighting needs.