Lighting plays a vital role in setting the mood and tone of any space. Whether you are designing a home, a restaurant, or a retail store, the proper lighting can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space and make it more functional. One technique that designers often use to achieve a dynamic and versatile lighting scheme is layered lighting. In this article, we will explore the art of layered lighting and how you can use it to create a more dynamic space.

What is Layered Lighting?

Layered lighting is the process of combining multiple light sources to create a balanced and functional lighting scheme. Rather than relying on a single overhead light fixture, layered lighting utilizes a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting. This creates a more nuanced and versatile lighting design. By layering different types of light sources, designers can create a more visually interesting space while also improving its functionality.

Lighting layers: general lighting, task lighting, accent lighting

Types of Layered Lighting

Three main types of lighting are used in layered lighting designs:

  1. ambient lighting
  2. task lighting
  3. accent lighting.

Each type of lighting serves a different purpose and can be used in different ways to create a balanced and functional lighting scheme.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting is the foundation of any layered lighting scheme. It is the general illumination that provides a comfortable level of brightness and helps to create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. Ambient lighting includes ceiling fixtures, recessed lighting, and wall sconces.

General lighting in an office

Task Lighting

Task lighting is used to provide focused, directional light. It is used for specific activities like reading, cooking, or working. It is typically brighter and more targeted than ambient lighting. It is often used in conjunction with ambient lighting to create a balanced lighting scheme. Examples of task lighting include table lamps, floor lamps, and under-cabinet lighting.

Task lighting

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting is used to highlight specific features or objects in a space, such as artwork, architectural details, or decorative elements. It is typically the brightest and most directional type of lighting and can create visual interest and drama in a space. Examples of accent lighting include track lighting, picture lights, and uplights.

Accent lighting

Benefits of Layered Lighting

Layered lighting has a range of benefits for both residential and commercial spaces. Here are some of the key benefits of layered lighting:

  1. Improved Functionality: Layered lighting can improve the functionality of a space by providing different types of lighting for different activities. For example, a kitchen might benefit from a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to provide general illumination, focused task lighting for cooking, and accent lighting for highlighting decorative elements.
  2. Increased Visual Interest: By combining different types of lighting, designers can create a more visually interesting space that draws the eye and creates a sense of depth and dimension. This can be especially effective in commercial spaces like retail stores, where visual interest can help attract customers and enhance the shopping experience.
  3. Enhanced Mood and Atmosphere: The right lighting can have a powerful effect on mood and atmosphere. By using a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting, designers can create a lighting scheme that enhances the mood and atmosphere of a space. For example, warm, dimmed lighting can create a cosy and intimate atmosphere in a restaurant (read more about lighting design for hospitality case study), while bright, cool lighting can create a sense of energy and excitement in a retail store. (read more about retail lighting here)
  4. Energy Efficiency: Layered lighting can be more energy-efficient than relying on a single overhead light fixture. By using a combination of lower-wattage fixtures and different types of lighting, designers can create a lighting scheme that is both functional and energy-efficient.

Tips for Layered Lighting

If you are interested in incorporating layered lighting into your space, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Plan Ahead:Before you begin selecting light fixtures, it is important to plan out your layered lighting scheme. Consider the different activities that will take place in the space. Think about the type of lighting needed for each activity. Sketch out a lighting plan that includes the location and type of each light fixture, as well as the light features that are desired.

  2. Use Different Light Intensities:

    Different illuminances are essential for layered lighting. They allow you to create the desired mood and atmosphere, as well as establish a hierarchy or guidance through the space.

  3. Vary the Heights:

    To create visual interest and depth, vary the heights of your light sources. Use a combination of ceiling-mounted fixtures, table lamps, and floor lamps to create a more dynamic lighting scheme. This will also help to create a sense of layering and prevent the space from feeling flat or one-dimensional.

  4. Highlight Focal Points:

    Use accent lighting to highlight focal points in the space, such as artwork, architectural details, or decorative elements. This draws the eye and creates a sense of drama and visual interest.

  5. Test the Lighting:

    Once you have installed your layered lighting scheme, take the time to test it out and make adjustments as needed. Turn on each light source and assess the overall effect. Make adjustments to the brightness or position of the light fixtures as needed to achieve the desired effect.