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Learn about Lighting - General, Accent & Task

The Basic Lighting Types

There are three basic types of lighting - general lighting, task lighting and accent lighting, A good lighting plan will incorporate all three. Use the basics to create layers of light to provide illumination, make tasks easier and highlight key design features.

General Lighting, also known as ambient lighting provides an area with overall illumination. General lighting enables you to see and walk around safely by radiating a comfortable level of brightness. It can be accomplished with chandeliers , ceiling or wall-mounted fixtures, recessed or track lights, and with lanterns outside your home. Think of general lighting as a basic form of lighting to replace sunlight. General lighting is fundamental to a lighting plan and as such should be your first consideration when designing.

Task lighting is focused points of light that help you perform specific tasks such as reading, sewing, cooking, homework, hobbies, games, or balancing your checkbook. It can be provided by recessed and track lighting, pendant lighting , and portable lamps . Task lighting needs to be bright enough to prevent eyestrain and should be free of distracting glare and shadows.

Accent Lighting highlights design features in and around your home and adds drama to a room by creating visual interest. As part of your decorating plan, accent lighting is generally used to spotlight paintings, houseplants, sculpture, and other prized possessions, or to highlight the texture of a wall, drapery or outdoor landscaping. Accent lighting requires at least three times as much light on the focal point as the general lighting around it. This usually is provided by track, recessed, cabinet or wall-mounted fixtures.

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