Lighting Solutions for Modern Barns and cosy cottage Living Spaces
Creating a lighting plan for your barn-style or cottage home involves more than just selecting fixtures.
The right lighting can transform your space, setting the perfect mood and making your home feel cosy and inviting.
Many of my clients in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand, seek to blend modern convenience with the rustic charm of their homes. This blog will guide you through the process, covering essential tips for lighting tall ceilings, achieving a warm atmosphere, and making practical lighting choices.
first, you need to start Defining Your Aesthetic
When planning the lighting for your barn-style home, start by considering the vibe or aesthetic you want to create.
Most clients who own cottages or country homes aim for a space that feels relaxing and cosy, avoiding overly modern or contemporary looks. Think about how you want to feel in your home, as this will play a crucial role in your lighting choices.
To achieve a relaxing and inviting atmosphere, focus on warm and ambient lighting.
Avoid harsh, bright lights that can make a space feel clinical. Instead, opt for softer light sources that can be adjusted to create the desired mood. For instance, using dimmable lights allows you to change the brightness according to the time of day and the activity you're doing.
Creating a Cosy Space with Lamps and Wall Lights
If you’re hoping to create a cosy space, I recommend minimal overhead lighting and more lamps and wall lights.
This approach allows for more control over the lighting, creating pockets of light that contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere. General lighting should ensure that the space is well-lit enough to see clearly and navigate safely without feeling overly bright or harsh.
In barn-style homes, overhead lighting can sometimes feel out of place. Instead, use pendant lights over dining areas and lounges.
Pendants can accentuate the height of your ceilings while being easily adjusted to the appropriate height.
Complement this with strategically placed lamps and wall lights to add warmth and depth to your rooms. These lighting choices not only enhance the aesthetic but also contribute to a functional and versatile lighting plan.
We design functional, thoughtful,
and beautiful homes, fit for real life.
We design functional, thoughtful, and beautiful homes, fit for real life.
At FBD Interiors, our main focus is creating spaces that are both elevated and realistic for your lifestyle. And we walk through every step of the process right alongside you - whether it’s a room refresh, a new kitchen, or a full home makeover/build.
Practical Considerations for Tall Ceilings
One of the challenges in barn-style homes is effectively lighting tall ceilings. While pendants can highlight the height and add character to your dining and living areas, they might not provide sufficient lighting on their own.
To address this, consider a combination of floor and table lamps plugged into power points that are controlled by standard light switches. This setup allows you to create a cosy atmosphere without the hassle of individually turning on each lamp.
Additionally, using uplighting can help illuminate the upper parts of your rooms, making the space feel more balanced.
Wall sconces and floor lamps with adjustable heads can direct light where it’s needed most, ensuring every corner of the room is well-lit.
This layered approach to lighting not only makes the room more functional but also enhances its aesthetic appeal.
Developing an effective lighting plan for your barn-style or cottage home involves balancing aesthetic preferences with practical needs.
By focusing on creating a cosy atmosphere with well-placed lamps and wall lights, and addressing the challenges of lighting tall ceilings, you can transform your space into a warm and inviting haven.
Whether you’re renovating or designing a new build in Hawke's Bay, these lighting tips will help you achieve a perfect blend of functionality and style. Embrace the unique charm of your barn home with a thoughtful lighting plan that enhances its rustic beauty and modern comforts.