Types of Lighting Fixtures: A Comprehensive Guide

Interior lighting is often referred to as layering, and it consists of three main types: environmental, task, and accent. Depending on the style and function of the space, the type of lamp, device, and amount of light may vary. Let's discuss the basic types of lighting in architecture and which luminaires will work best for your purposes.

Environmental Lighting

, also known as ambient lighting, serves to provide a uniform and general light to a space.

This is so that people can easily and safely see and move around the room. It also creates a relaxing and light atmosphere without the strong glare. With so many types of lighting available, it can be confusing to develop a lighting system for any space. The right lighting can have a significant impact on how you feel in a space, and each space can require a variety of different lighting requirements.

Accent lighting for outdoor areas, including architecture and gardens, is called outdoor accent lighting. Standard accessories for task lighting include pendant lighting, recessed accessories, desk or laptop lamps, and lighting for under the cabinet. Ambient or general lighting is a necessary part of any good lighting plan because it provides overall brightness to the room.

Task Lighting

is important for people of all ages, but especially as one ages.

As people age, they need more light and become more sensitive to glare, making good quality work lighting all the more important. In addition to setting the tone of the space, ambient lighting creates enough light for you to see and move comfortably and safely. When designing a lighting system, it is important that task lighting does not create glare or shadows and, at the same time, be bright enough to avoid eye strain.

Accent Lighting

provides additional, focused light for tasks in a space that may already have ambient or accent lighting.

To be effective, accent lighting requires at least three times as much light at the focal point. This style of lighting can be provided with recessed, rail or pendant lighting, but also with floor and desk lamps. Good lighting accessories for ambient lighting include chandeliers, LED spotlights, wall lights, traditional built-in accessories and table lamps %26.