The right light for every room
von Verena W.
"Lighting plays an essential role in any space. It not only affects our vision, but also our mood, productivity and general well-being. However, choosing the right lighting can be challenging as it should be based on the purpose and use of the space in question."
Kitchen lighting: The optimal illumination for your workspace
The kitchen is often the heart of the home - a place where people cook, eat, talk and often work. The right lighting is therefore essential to create an atmosphere that is both functional and inviting. It should be both practical and pleasant.
Basic lighting
The kitchen is a room that benefits from bright, effective lighting. A lux level of around 500 is ideal for the kitchen. When choosing light sources, you should give preference to those with high lumen values that guarantee good brightness. The Kelvin number in the kitchen should be more in the neutral range (around 4000K) as this provides a clear and clean light, ideal for cooking and cleaning. Pendant luminaires above the kitchen table or island can add extra light and style to the room. Under-counter lights can provide extra lux for work surfaces where you cut and prepare.
As the kitchen is a working area, recessed spotlights and pendant luminaires are ideal. They provide high lux and clear illumination. For work surfaces, additional under-cabinet luminaires can be used that shine directly onto the worktop.Let's start with the ambient lighting. Ceiling luminaires or recessed spots with a high lux factor and neutral white colour temperature (approx. 4000 Kelvin) are particularly suitable for general illumination of the kitchen. They ensure that the entire room is adequately lit and that there are no dark corners.
Task lighting
An important part of kitchen lighting is task lighting. This refers to special luminaires that directly illuminate work surfaces such as the hob, sink or worktop. Under-cabinet luminaires or recessed spots mounted under wall units are a good choice here. They provide bright, directional light that prevents shadows from being cast and thus facilitates safe working.
Accent lighting
In addition to functional lighting, the kitchen can benefit from so-called accent lighting. This serves to highlight certain areas or elements and thus emphasise the design of the room. Here, for example, LED strips can be used to emphasise the architecture of the kitchen or to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Dining area lighting
If the kitchen also has a dining area, pendant or pendant luminaires should be considered. These hang above the dining table and provide direct light that is ideal for dining and cosy get-togethers. The height of the pendant light should be chosen so that it does not block the view across the table. A dimmable option can be helpful to adjust the mood depending on the occasion. Finding the right lighting in the kitchen can be a challenge. But with knowledge of lux, lumens and kelvins, and a conscious choice of lamp types, you can make your kitchen space both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Living room lighting: combination of light sources for a cosy home
For the living room, soft lighting that creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere is important. A lux number of about 200 to 300 is sufficient here. Colour temperatures in the warmer range (approx. 2700K to 3000K) can create a more cosy atmosphere. Dimmers are particularly useful for regulating the number of lumens according to the time of day and mood. A mix of ceiling, floor and table lamps can help create different levels of light and thus a cosy ambience.
In the living room, indirect lighting solutions such as floor and table lamps are particularly suitable. They create a cosy and inviting ambience. For general room lighting, dimmable ceiling lights are ideal, providing soft illumination.
The living room is a central place in your home where you can relax, chat with family and friends or simply read a good book. To make these activities all enjoyable, the right lighting is crucial. Here is a detailed guide to getting the best lighting for your living room.
General lighting
General lighting, also known as ambient lighting, is the main source of light in the room. It should illuminate the entire room evenly. Ceiling luminaires or recessed spotlights are suitable for this purpose in the living room. These should be dimmable so that you can adjust the brightness according to your mood and the time of day.
Mood lighting
Mood lighting or decorative lighting is used to create a special atmosphere in a room. Here, candles, LED candles or coloured LED lights can create a cosy, warm and inviting atmosphere.
Functional lighting
Functional lighting is primarily there to support certain activities. A good reading lamp next to the favourite armchair or a standard luminaire next to the sofa that provides enough light for reading are good examples of using individual luminaires to illuminate the living room in a targeted way. The living room is a multifunctional room and its lighting should definitely be flexible.
Bedroom lighting: light for dreams and relaxation
The bedroom is a place of rest and relaxation, and the lighting should reflect this. A low lux number of around 100 to 200 can be sufficient here, while lower lumen light sources provide a soft and calming light. A warm colour temperature (approx. 2000K to 3000K) is ideal for creating a relaxing ambience. For reading in bed, additional reading lamps with a higher lux number could be useful. They provide direct light and protect your eyes from strain. Soft, dimmable wall or ceiling lights are ideal for the bedroom to create a calm atmosphere. For reading in bed, additional reading lamps or flexible wall lamps that provide directional light are suitable.
Lighting for night-time reading
If you like to read before retiring, a special reading lamp is indispensable. Bedside lamps or wall-mounted reading lamps with a flexible arm provide directional light that is sufficient for reading, but not so bright that it disturbs your sleeping partner.
Lighting for morning rituals
Special lighting can be useful for the dressing room or dressing table. Mirror lights or small spotlights provide a bright and clear light that is ideal for choosing your outfit or applying make-up.
Lighting for a touch of romance
For special moments or to create a romantic atmosphere, accent lights such as LED fairy lights, table lamps with soft shades or even candles are ideal. They produce a diffuse, warm light and create an intimate and cosy atmosphere. In summary, the right lighting in the bedroom is a crucial factor for a pleasant atmosphere and a good night's sleep. By carefully selecting the right lamps and light sources, matched to the needs and activities of the room, you can create a bedroom that is both functional and comfortable.
Bathroom: The care area
General lighting
Ceiling luminaires or recessed luminaires that illuminate the entire room brightly and uniformly are suitable for general lighting. They should have a neutral to warm colour temperature (3000 to 4000 Kelvin) and provide sufficient lumens to ensure good visibility.
Mirror lighting
The mirror area requires special lighting that avoids shadows and provides a clear view when shaving, applying make-up or brushing teeth. Here, mirror lights or wall lights on both sides of the mirror are a good choice. They should provide bright, natural light that realistically reproduces skin colour.
Safety lighting
Safety is an important aspect in the bathroom. Night lights or motion sensor luminaires can help prevent falls by providing orientation at night or in low light.
Lighting selection by protection category
When buying luminaires for the bathroom, you should also pay attention to the degree of protection (IP). This indicates how well the luminaire is protected against the ingress of dust and water. In the bathroom, luminaires with a high protection rating are recommended, especially near the shower or bathtub. The right lighting in the bathroom can make a big difference to your comfort and safety. With the right lights and a good understanding of lumens, Kelvin and protection ratings, you can create a bathroom that is both practical and relaxing.
Other rooms
Cellar: The usable area
Cellars are often poorly lit, but they don't have to be. You need a high lux level (500 lux or more) for tasks such as washing, tinkering or storage. Neutral white light (around 4000K) is good for basements because it makes the room appear brighter and more inviting.High-performance ceiling or wall luminaires with high lumen and lux values are ideal for basements. They provide good illumination of the room and make it brighter and more inviting.
Children's room: The play area
In a child's room, a combination of ceiling luminaires for general lighting and special desk lamps or reading lights for concentrated activities is ideal. Colourful and cheerful luminaires can also help decorate the room.Flexible lighting is important in children's rooms. General lighting with a medium lux level (around 300 lux) provides enough light for playing and tidying up. For reading or handicrafts, additional desk or reading lamps with a higher lux number may be useful. A warm colour temperature (approx. 3000K) creates a pleasant atmosphere for relaxing and falling asleep.
Fitness room: the active area
In a fitness room, it is important to have enough light to be able to exercise safely. A high lux level (500 lux or more) is recommended here. Neutral white light (around 4000K) can help you stay active and focused.Bright ceiling lights or recessed spotlights are suitable for the fitness room. They provide enough light to exercise safely. For special areas such as mirrors or weight benches, additional directional spotlights or strips can be used.
Sauna room: The wellness area
In saunas, dimmable wall or ceiling luminaires are recommended. They provide soft lighting and help create a relaxing atmosphere.In a sauna room, less light is more. A low lux level (below 100 lux) can help create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Warm white light (around 2000K to 3000K) can enhance the relaxing ambience.
Business premises - how do I illuminate them correctly?
How do I properly present products in a business space?
In retail spaces, lighting is crucial to present products properly and create an inviting atmosphere. A high lux level (500 lux or more) in retail spaces can help highlight products. Colour temperature depends on the desired ambience and the type of products. Warm white light (around 3000K) can create a welcoming ambience, while neutral white light (around 4000K) is suitable for areas where colours and details need to be emphasised, such as changing rooms or product displays.
Choosing the right lighting for any space can be a challenge, but with knowledge of lux, lumens and kelvin, you'll be well equipped to light your home or business optimally.In a shop, lighting and lighting design play a crucial role. They can emphasise product presentation and create an inviting atmosphere for customers. From direct light in shop windows to soft lighting in changing rooms, there are many ways to use lighting to increase sales.Special lighting elements are needed to highlight products or services. Accent luminaires, such as spotlights or spotlights, can help to highlight specific products or areas and thus arouse the interest of customers.
Window lighting
Window lighting is crucial to the shop's outward presentation. It should be eye-catching and appealing to attract the attention of passers-by. LED fairy lights, light boxes or bright spotlights can be a good choice here.
Lighting for special areas
Areas such as changing cubicles or checkout areas need special lighting. In changing rooms, the light should be warm and flattering, while in checkout areas, bright and clear lighting ensures efficient transactions.
Energy efficiency
Lighting in business premises is often in operation for many hours a day. It is therefore important to use energy-efficient light sources such as LED lamps to keep operating costs low and protect the environment. Well-planned lighting can make a big difference to the success of a business. It helps to create an inviting atmosphere, highlight products and increase comfort for customers and employees.
Conclusion - This is how you do everything right!
Lighting plays an essential role in every room. It not only affects our vision, but also our mood, productivity and overall well-being. However, choosing the right lighting can be challenging as it should be based on the purpose and use of the space in question.
Choosing the right lighting can make a significant difference in any room, whether it's creating an inspiring work environment in the office or providing a relaxing atmosphere in the bedroom. The quality of light can help us feel energised, focused or relaxed and can have a positive impact on our overall wellbeing.
If you are still undecided about how to implement lighting in your home, why not make an appointment with the lighting designers at Skapetze for a personal consultation and the development of an individual lighting concept ?
You are also welcome to visit us on site in Simbach am Inn at , Bavaria's largest lighting studio .
If you already have a concrete idea of how the luminaires should look in your home, we can help you turn this idea into reality - our in-house workshop makes it possible.
Our top blog posts
How do I care for my outdoor lights?
In the following article, we will show you how to properly care for your outdoor luminaires. Enjoy reading!
The pendant luminaire guide
We show you how multiple pendant luminaires can set the perfect scene in your home. Enjoy reading!
What does the term Kelvin mean ?
We inform you why the colour of light is so important. Enjoy reading!