When it comes to interior design or a remodeling project, one of the most important aspects is the lighting. Unfortunately it is the lighting that is often over-looked by most people when they attempt to complete their own remodel. Whether it is from crystal lamps, floor lamps, or over even recessed ceiling units, it is the light that is the lifeblood of any design. Ignore this fact and your design will most certainly be found wanting.
As a trained interior decorator knows, if you do not have good lighting to start with your design is destined to fail. While this is common knowledge to professionals, the concept is lost on the novice who attempts to complete their own interior makeovers. It is not hard to see why as they are easily distracted by the allure of the big, new leather couches and love seats. Also the more basic aspects like new carpet, rugs, and paint does not escape their attention. They plan their budget and financing around the purchase of these items and give little to no thought to the lighting. Only after they have exhausted the last of their funds due they realize the need. Needless to say, in the world of lighting you get what you pay for. Here is the problem in that people will just go cheap. They will make do with whatever they have or purchase the cheapest item they can find. When this happens the lighting is all wrong and takes away from the design. On top of that if the actual lamp or lighting unit is out-of-place for the design, it is hard to overcome the flaw.
Lighting of a space, or in this case the newly remodeled design, is the most important aspect. Who cares how fancy a couch is, or how detailed a piece of art is if you cannot see it. In turn, if too much light is applied it washes out the finer aspects of the design and just makes it look out of proportion. It is the lighting that sets the tone of a room. It is this same lighting that communicates the mood as well. For example a crystal lamp on a table might communicate a feeling of elegance in the space, while a spotlight unit might be used to showcase a very specific point within the room. A very bright light might set the tone of high energy, while a light with less brilliance and softer tone might make the space seem quieter and peaceful.
It is these tones that one must decided upon before they start to redesign an area. Once the decision is made, the correct and corresponding types of lights must be sought out. Finding these right lights is not an easy matter either. Finding the best suited unit can take a great deal of time. In the end, a portion of the total budget must be allocated to the purchase of such lights. Only then should the rest of the design be pursued. The lighting should never be an afterthought. If it is then the design will be likely not meet expectations.