Five common lighting mistakes — and how to avoid them

Lighting is the cheapest item that can ruin the most expensive design. These are the mistakes we see most.

Relying on one source

A single fitting in the middle of the ceiling flattens a room. The answer is three layers: ambient light, task light over the areas you use, and accent light that picks out detail.

Inconsistent colour temperature

Mixing cool and warm white in the same space makes it feel unresolved. Choose one temperature — usually 3000K for homes — and hold to it.

Ignoring control

Dimmers are not a luxury. Being able to bring the level down completely changes how a space feels between afternoon and evening.

Blind mirror lighting

Lighting a mirror only from above throws shadows across the face. Two sources at eye level on either side work far better.

Deciding too late

Setting light positions after the plaster is done means breaking walls and reworking. The lighting plan is drawn with the design, not after it.

Planning to finish your space? The El Beit El Handasy team offers an initial consultation to discuss the idea and the budget.