Lighting Basics to Elevate Every Design
Designers understand the impact of light in a space, but when it comes to some of the more technical aspects of lighting, even seasoned pros can quickly become overwhelmed.
Key Lighting Terminology
LED (Light Emitting Diode)
LEDs are the most popular light sources used today. They have quickly become the modern standard since they have a lower operating cost than previous generation lighting solutions like incandescent and halogen bulbs. LEDs can be easily adapted for use in a wide range of products including tape lighting, fixtures, and can lights.
Designer Tip: Not all LED lighting is equal. Look for suppliers that specialize in solutions for specific applications. For example, choosing LED products that are designed to operate in humid environments like bathrooms and kitchens can help ensure product performance. Look for manufacturers that third-party test products to UL/ETL standards, offer warranties, and provide technical and design support.
Voltage & Transformers (Power Supplies)
Most standard homes in the US are wired to provide 120 volts of power. However, many of the most popular and versatile lighting applications—like under-cabinet lighting, cove lighting, and illuminated shelving—require only 12 or 24 volts. This is where a power supply, also known as a transformer or driver, comes in.
A power supply converts standard 120-volt household power down to the safe, low voltage needed for things like LED strip lights. Think of it as the missing link that allows you to use these energy-efficient, low-profile lighting solutions anywhere you want to add a beautiful glow.
Designer Tip: Using power supplies makes installing low-voltage lighting quick, easy, and cost-effective. These systems are not only safe and versatile but also use less electricity, which is a great benefit to highlight for your clients. If you need help creating a lighting and power plan, the Design Services Team at Task Lighting and Power provides free support services to designers and contractors. A specialist will develop a comprehensive plan based on your project layout and answer questions you might have along the way.
Kelvin Temperature
The color temperature of the light is measured in Kelvin (K). The Kelvin temperature refers to the “warmth” or “coolness” of the light’s color, not its heat. Lower Kelvin values (2000-3000K) produce a warm, yellowish light that provides a cozy, inviting glow you associate with candlelight or old incandescent bulbs. It is ideal for creating a relaxing atmosphere in living rooms, dining areas, and bedrooms. Higher Kelvin values (4000K-5000K) produce a cool, white, or even bluish light that mimics natural daylight. This crisp, clean light is great for functional spaces where focus and clarity are important, such as kitchens, home offices, and bathrooms.
Designer Tip: Mixing warm and cool light sources can make a room feel disjointed and clash with your color palette. Look for manufacturers that offer tunable-white light solutions that allow you to select the Kelvin temperature on demand. Specifying tunable-white can eliminate issues related to mixing warm and cool light sources.
Lighting Control
Modern lighting control options go beyond traditional on/off switches. They include dimmer switches, which allow for precise brightness adjustments, and sophisticated smart home systems that can be operated through home automation apps on a phone, voice commands via smart speakers, or sleek in-wall keypads. This variety of control options gives homeowners the power to create pre-set combinations of light levels and color temperatures for activities like family game night or romantic date night.
Designer Tip: It is important to discuss lighting control with your clients early in the design process. The conversation is an opportunity to demonstrate the unique value hiring a professional designer brings to a project. You will learn a lot about their comfort level with technology and how they live in their space. It’s likely that when given the option, clients would prefer not to rely on a single method for lighting control. A lighting plan that provides a combination of traditional, easy-to-use wall switches for quick access and a home automation app that allows for more complex control, scheduling, and remote operation can give clients the best of both.