Lighting that fits the room. From living room lumens to bathroom vanity height—get it right for each space.
How many lumens? Aim for 1,500–3,000 lumens total (ambient + task). A 10m² room needs roughly 1,500 lumens for general use.
Layered approach: Ambient (ceiling or floor lamps) + task (reading lamps) + accent (artwork, plants). Dimmers on each layer give you control.
Chandelier sizing: Add room length + width in metres—that number in inches is a good chandelier diameter. E.g. 4m × 5m room → ~36cm (14") fixture.
Island pendants: Hang 75–90cm above the counter. Space pendants 45–60cm apart. For a 2m island, 2–3 pendants work well.
Under-cabinet: LED strips or pucks. Aim for 300–500 lumens per metre of counter. Plug-in vs hardwired—hardwired is cleaner; plug-in is easier to install.
Recessed layout: Space 6" cans 1–1.2m apart in a grid. Over the sink and stove, add task lighting.
Sleep-friendly: Warm white (2700–3000K). Avoid cool or blue light in the evening. Dimmers are essential.
Bedside: 300–500 lumens for reading. Adjustable arms or swing arms give flexibility. Symmetry looks good but isn’t required.
Closet: Motion-sensor LED strips or pucks. No need for bright—100–200 lumens is enough to see clothes.
Vanity height: Mount sconces or bar lights at eye level—about 1.6–1.7m from the floor. Or place a fixture 75–80cm above the vanity top.
Avoid shadows: Light from the sides (sconces) or above + sides. A single over-mirror light casts shadows; cross-lighting (sides) is better for makeup and shaving.
IP rating: In shower zones, use IP44 or higher. Above the bath, IP65 if water can splash.
Reduce eye strain: 3000–4000K. Avoid glare on screens—position task lights to the side or behind you.
Desk lamp: 500–700 lumens. Adjustable height and angle. For video calls, a ring light or soft front light helps.
Ambient + task: Ceiling or floor lamp for general light; desk lamp for focused work.