Entryway Lighting and How To Get It Right
Entryway lighting is all about putting your home’s best face forward and making great first impressions. The entryway or foyer is a functional space that primarily acts as an exit/entrance and also space where people put on or remove their shoes, and temporary store things. The fact that it’s often used briefly means it can easily be overlooked as far as lighting is concerned.
When done just right, the entryway lighting sets the right tone and mood as your guests step into your home, and is a perfect spot for creating great first impressions. This is why sufficient and appropriate lighting is critical to this place. Here are some pointers and options on how to go about this;
- Consider The Size And Shape Of Your Entryway
- Ambient Lighting
- Accent Lighting
- Task Lighting
- Ceiling Lighting
The shape and size of your entryway or mudroom will dictate the kind of lighting fixtures to be used. For instance, if your entryway has less vertical space or is generally smaller, consider using flash or semi-flush mount light fixtures that don’t demand so much attention. Narrow, long entryways can benefit from decorative light fixtures that lead visitors into the rest of your home.
If you’re looking to provide a cozy atmosphere while still lighting the entire space, consider ambient lighting. If you have a relatively small entryway, ambient lighting might be sufficient to light up the whole area. In some cases, a single overhead fixture may be enough. But don’t limit yourself to overhead fittings –even a well-placed table or floor lamp can do the trick.
If your entry has some artwork, photography, sculptures or other interesting features you would like to show off, you can implement accent lighting. If there are traces of shadows anywhere in the entryway, you can strategically place accent lights to kill the shadows and restore the warm glow.
Task lighting is a creative form of indoor lighting that allows you to focus light in working areas. If your entryway is big enough to include working areas that require intense focus such as sewing or reading, a task light can save the day. While this might not be common in entryways, a focus light in this area will still help you in situations like when searching for your exterior door keys in your handbag on your way out.
For the most part, ceiling lighting will be your main entryway lighting, and it needs to sufficiently illuminate the space. You also want to strategically position the switch so you don’t have to grope around in darkness on your way back. While entryway indoor lighting is primarily functional, it doesn’t have to be plain. So feel free to throw in a crystal chandelier or two to lend your space a special sparkle.
Your home entrance needs to be warm and welcoming while remaining functional. As detailed above, the choice and placement of light fixtures will depend on the tone you want to set and the size/shape of your entryway. Feel free to use dimmer switches so you have more control and flexibility. If you’re unsure of how to go about your entryway lighting, consult a professional for help.
