In recent years, open plan living has become increasingly popular. Gone are the days of small and cramped rooms with a single overhead light. Instead, homeowners are embracing open plan living, which allows for a more social and relaxed lifestyle.
One of the biggest challenges of open plan living is maintaining effective lighting in a space that serves multiple purposes. In an open plan kitchen/living room, for example, you need to create distinct zones for cooking, dining, and relaxing, each with its own lighting requirements.
Here are some tips to help you maintain effective lighting in your open plan kitchen/living room:
- Start with a Plan: Before you start buying light fixtures, take the time to plan out your space. Think about how you want to use each area, and what kind of lighting you will need in each zone.
- Layer Your Lighting: Instead of relying on a single overhead light, try to layer your lighting. This means using a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a more balanced and functional space. Why not try strip lighting for a unique and quirky lighting alternative?
- Use Dimmer Switches: Dimmer switches are a great way to control the level of lighting in your space. They allow you to adjust the lighting to suit your needs, whether you’re cooking a meal, entertaining guests, or simply relaxing.
- Embrace Natural Light: If you have large windows or doors in your open plan kitchen/living room, make the most of them. Natural light is the best kind of light, and it can help to create a bright and airy space.
- Add Some Personality: Don’t be afraid to add some personality to your lighting fixtures. Pendant lights, chandeliers, and wall sconces can all add visual interest and create a more stylish and sophisticated space.
Embracing open plan living is not just about creating a more functional and practical space, it’s also about our wellbeing. Research has shown that natural light, fresh air, and open spaces can have a positive impact on our physical and mental health. So, why not embrace the trend and create a brighter, more spacious, and more relaxed living environment? Try adding some low maintenance house plants to further brighten up the space.
In addition to lighting, there are other things you can do to make your open plan kitchen/living room feel more cozy and inviting. Adding soft furnishings like rugs, cushions, and throws can help to break up the space and make it feel more comfortable. And, of course, don’t forget about the importance of colour. Using warm, inviting colours can help to create a welcoming atmosphere in your open plan living space.
