In luxury interior design, the proper lighting can transform the entire look of a space. It can make a small room feel larger, change the overall atmosphere, or complement a specific design style. At Interiors by Steven G. (IBSG), our experience with lighting as a design element allows us to balance functionality with breathtaking results. Here are five ways we use lighting in our luxury interior design:

Open Up a Space

We often use artificial and natural light to make a room appear more spacious. When paired with lighter paint colors, the light reflects off nearby surfaces and illuminates the walls, creating a broadening effect. It brightens dark corners and minimizes shadows that can otherwise create a more closed-in feel. Strategic lighting that draws the eye up toward the ceiling can also make a room feel taller. This strategy is beneficial for creating the illusion of vaulted ceilings in places where limited space doesn’t allow for them, such as luxury apartments or condos. 

There are multiple ways to maximize lighting and help make a space feel larger. Installing a wall of large windows allows increased daylight to flood the room. Sunlight can also be controlled by hanging sheer curtains instead of blinds and using mirrors as wall decorations to bounce light around the room. As seen in our portfolio, these methods work well for brightening up sitting areas and dining rooms in luxury homes or offices. 

Change the Mood

Different degrees of lighting affect the ambiance of a given space. A brighter, more illuminated room often feels light and airy, providing a fresh and productive mood. This works well for kitchens and reading areas, where intricate tasks and attention to detail are frequently required. Rooms with soft, warm lighting give off a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, fitting for luxury hotel reception areas. Darker mood lighting also has its place and can provide intimacy and privacy in a high-end restaurant or club setting. IBSG specializes in each of these luxury interior design settings.

Increase the Functionality

One of the primary purposes of lighting is to illuminate a space and increase visibility, so our team will utilize different lighting forms depending on an area’s intended use. A bathroom or bedroom will require additional lighting compared to a storage closet or pantry. A bathroom vanity must provide adequate light for skincare and makeup routines. Light fixtures with a higher wattage and adjustable lamp arms are often appropriate for reading nooks or bedside tables. For luxury pools or poolside areas, lighting with adjustable brightness and color options can provide a stylish yet functional feel.

Highlight Specific Features

At IBSG, we use direct lighting to emphasize or attract viewers to unique design features within a luxury residence or commercial building. Carefully placed lighting can draw attention to specific sitting areas or check-in desks in a lobby. Spotlights can also be used to highlight displayed art, such as priceless paintings or intricate statues.

Light fixtures themselves can be used as focal points as well. In luxury design, a sizeable tiered chandelier or row of distinctive pendant lights can add class and elegance to an entrance hall, ballroom, or formal dining room. Grand hotels and other luxury buildings can use impressive light fixtures to symbolize opulence and project grandeur to their visitors. 

Contribute to the Design Style

The amount and type of lighting used in luxury interior design will vary based on the design style. When decorating according to a contemporary style, we recommend using modern light fixtures and maximizing daylight for a more natural, comfortable atmosphere. For a traditional interior design style, we often avoid overly bright lighting so as not to detract from the darker accent colors and heavy furniture. A mixture of dark accents and neutral furniture creates a transitional interior design style, highlighted by moderate lighting and functional light fixtures.

When following a specific design style, lighting can be added or removed to intensify or soften the space. Increased lighting can brighten dark furniture in a traditional design style. Warm lighting can make an airy contemporary style more inviting. Your individual design preferences can also influence the amount of lighting used, regardless of the predetermined design style. Our team at Interiors by Steven G. can help adjust and refine your luxury space to reflect your unique taste.

Interiors by Steven G. for Your Luxury Interior Design Needs

Lighting is a fundamental design element that contributes to the style and functionality of your space. Luxury interior design can be as bold or subtle as desired, and the right lighting can complement your dream aesthetic. Whether you’re building a luxury home or planning a complete re-design project, choose our full-service team at Interiors by Steven G. to bring your design vision to life. We can help illuminate your space with the right lighting designs and fixtures.