Platinum Guides to Select Perfect Lighting for Your Home

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LIGHTINGDESIGN IDEA

1/20/20243 min read

First, let's understand what is "Lumens“

Foot-candles (fc) are a unit of measurement used to quantify the amount of visible light illuminating a specific area. One foot-candle is defined as the amount of light that one Lumen is produced on a one-square-foot surface located one foot away from the light source. The Total Room Lumens = Foot Candles x Area (in square feet). This calculation ensures an appropriate level of light for each space.

Here are the recommended space lighting solutions and Foot Candles for different residential spaces:

1. Living Room (10' H), can be a combination of ambient and task lighting to create a versatile and well-lit living space.

  • - Recommended Foot Candles: 10-20

    1. Kitchen (10' H), can choose bright, uniform lighting to illuminate countertops and cooking areas. Pendant lights or under-cabinet lighting can enhance task-oriented activities

      • Recommended Foot Candles for general area: 30-40

      • Recommended Foot Candles for sink/stove: 50-70

    1. Dining Room (10' H), can install a chandelier or pendant light above the dining table for focused and inviting illumination. Dimmable options provide flexibility.

      • Recommended Foot Candles: 30-40

    1. Study Room (10' H), can consider having task lighting, and desk lamps to create a conducive environment for work or study.

      • Recommended Foot Candles: 40-60

    1. Bedroom (10' H), is a space to establish a cozy and relaxing atmosphere with ambient lighting and bedside lamps. Dimmable options allow for personalized brightness:

      • Recommended Foot Candles: 5-10

    1. Foyer (10' H), where can make a statement with a grand chandelier or pendant light to effectively illuminate the entryway, complementing the overall design.

      • Recommended Foot Candles: 20-50

    1. Bathroom (10' H), is the most private and personal space, can use direct and indirect lights for different functions and needs

      • Recommended Foot Candles for general: 20-40

      • Recommended Foot Candles for task area: 50-70

Introduction:Achieving the right level of brightness in your home is a key aspect of interior design, influencing both aesthetics and functionality. In this guide, we'll delve into essential considerations such as lumens, different types of bulbs, the recommended foot candles for rooms with 10-foot ceilings, and the conversion of foot candles to lumens. Additionally, we'll explore the concept of Kelvin temperature to help you create the ideal atmosphere in each living space.

Selecting the right bulb is crucial

Below are the common bulb types:

1. Incandescent Bulbs: Warm, soft light. Suitable for areas where color accuracy is not critical

2. Halogen Bulbs: Bright, white light with excellent color rendering. Longer lifespan than traditional incandescent, but shorter than LEDs.

3. LED Bulbs: Energy-efficient. Long lifespan. Available in various color temperatures

4. CFL Bulbs: Energy-efficient. Suitable for general lighting

Understanding Kelvin Temperature:

Kelvin temperature (K) measures the color temperature of light. Lower Kelvin values (e.g., 2700K) produce warm, yellow tones, while higher values (e.g., 5000K) result in cool, blue-white tones. Consider the following Kelvin temperature recommendations:

  • Warm White (2700-3000K): Suitable for living rooms and bedrooms, providing a cozy atmosphere.

  • Cool White (3500-4100K): Ideal for kitchens and workspaces, offering a crisp and vibrant light.

  • Daylight (5000-6500K): Suitable for task-oriented areas, mimicking natural daylight.


Conclusion: By understanding required room lumens, exploring different bulb types, and considering Kelvin's temperature, you can confidently choose lighting that enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of your home. Let this guide be your beacon to achieving the perfect illumination, creating a bright, welcoming, and visually appealing living space tailored to your preferences.