Design your home like a pro by following my 4 lighting rules that set the mood – but know the right times to break them
IT’S time to get lit – or at least make sure your home is.
According to one interiors pro, adding the right kind of lighting can elevate your space – and so can rebelling against the rules.
Kristen Elizabeth, founder of Kristen Elizabeth Interior Design, wants to ensure that your space matches your own unique style.
“Navigating the intricate web of these design details is like deciphering a blueprint, a roadmap for crafting spaces that are not only visually appealing but also tailor-made to suit your lifestyle,” she said in a post.
She also knows that sometimes you have to stray from strict guidelines.
“We delve into the world of interior design rules – when to follow them and when to break free – empowering you to approach home design with confidence,” she said.
Whatever you do, make sure that your lighting gets the spotlight it deserves.
“When designing your home, lighting may be an afterthought, but it shouldn’t be,” she said.
“Proper lighting is a cornerstone of interior design, setting the mood and feel of a space while enhancing the overall aesthetic,” she continued.
Her tips for brightening your home include adding two to three types of lighting sources.
Just beware – steer clear of overhead lighting.
She explained how this can lead to unwanted shadows.
Instead, don’t be afraid to mix and match items, including table lamps, floor lamps, pendants, and sconces.
This will help to add “layered lighting effects” and create a way to control the brightness.
Another pro design tip includes using carefully placed dimmers.
She is also a fan of task lighting, or direct lighting in a specific area.
While this will help to lighten things up, she recommends hiding the actual light bulbs.
“Pay attention to the light bulb tone and select a cohesive color temperature,” she said.
“We recommend warm white shades for an inviting atmosphere,” she continued.
Now, it’s time to take these rules and break them.
Kristen's color scheme rule
Interior designer Kristen Elizabeth of Kristen Elizabeth Interior Design shared her 60-30-10 color scheme rule for creating balance.
- 60% of a room should reflect the main color of a space
- 30% of the area should incorporate your secondary tone
- 10% should pick up accent colors – think small decorative items
- Break the rules when you do just 10% of two coordinating accent colors
She explained how there are instances when you are allowed to tap into your dark design side – at least when it comes to incorporating overhead lighting in a small area, such as a hallway.
She gives permission to use this type of lighting when you need to see better for cleaning purposes.
Adding some brightness to your kitchen and bathrooms is also allowed.
“Dimmers also help overhead lighting feel less bright and harsh,” she said.
Kristen previously shared her color scheme tips, including her 60-30-10 rule, which she explained can be used to craft a “balanced” space.
She recommends that 60% of your main color should be reflected in a space, while 30% of the area should be your secondary tone.
The remaining 10% of the room can be your accent color.
Once again, she encourages smashing the rules by sometimes just doing 10% of two “coordinating accent colors.”