Illuminating Spaces: Atelier's Lighting Tips

Interior Design: Atelier Interior Design | Project: Luxe Bohemian Revamp

We recently had the pleasure of visiting Visual Comfort & Co.’s Denver showroom, where we sat down with lighting expert Janine Tuttle to dive deep into the world of illumination for our Shop Talk series. While many (us included) think of lighting as the "jewelry" of a room, adding that final touch of personality, it’s so much more than just a pretty feature. Lighting not only drives the overall aesthetic of a space, but it’s also the one design element that impacts every other detail around it. Let’s be honest though – choosing the right lighting can feel a bit like solving a puzzle. From understanding light temperatures to nailing the perfect fixture size, it can get surprisingly technical. But fear not! We’ve compiled our tried-and-true lighting tips to help make the process easier (and more fun). Let’s dive in!

Interior Design: Atelier Interior Design | Project: Vibrant, Bold Central Park Remodel | Lighting: Visual Comfort & Co.

Hanging Height is Everything

When it comes to lighting, hanging height is everything—especially in your dining room and kitchen, where style meets functionality. Imagine selecting a stunning chandelier for above your dining table, yet it floats at a length that blocks the view of your guests – no bueno. It should sit at about 30 to 36 inches above your dining table, casting a warm glow, but not blocking the view of your wonderful dinner guests. In the kitchen, pendant lights should hang about 28 to 34 inches above the countertop to brighten your culinary adventures. It’s key to know the standard heights before installing, because you can never go longer once those wires are cut!

Interior Design: Atelier Interior Design | Project: Breezy Broomfield Remodel | Lighting: Visual Comfort & Co.

chain vs cord vs pipe hung lights

The choice between chains, cords, and pipes can make a big difference in your space. Chain or cord fixtures are the rock stars of adjustability — just a quick tweak, and you can change the height to fit your mood or decor. On the flip side, pipe hung lights are less forgiving once installed. If they’re too long, you’ll need a pro to cut them down, which can be a hassle. So, think about your style and how often you might want to switch things up. Whether you want the flexibility of chains or the boldness of pipes, knowing your options will help you light up your space without worry.

Interior Design: Atelier Interior Design | Project: Art Lover’s Penthouse | Lighting: Visual Comfort & Co.

lighting should be a statement (but not too much of a statement)

Who’s into wimpy lighting? Not us! Your fixtures should steal the show. Lighting is like art, so choose pieces that are bold enough to fill the room and truly shine. That said, it’s important to be mindful of scale—while larger fixtures can make a statement, you don’t want to bump your head on an oversized chandelier while standing up from the dining table.

For dining rooms, aim for a fixture that’s large enough to be a focal point but appropriately sized to avoid any collisions. When it comes to lamps, we think bigger is always better! A well-chosen lamp can enhance your design and provide the perfect balance of style and function. Regardless of the space, it’s all about finding that sweet spot where size and style come together!

Interior Design: Atelier Interior Design | Project: Southwest Chic Townhome | Lighting: Visual Comfort & Co.

finding the perfect temperature

The temperature of your lighting is crucial when trying to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. ‘Temperature’ is the measurement of how warm or cool a light source appears, expressed in units called Kelvin (K). After years of interior design experience, we’ve found that 2700K, a soft warm white, works best in most spaces (when compared to 3000K) – keyword: most. 2700K mimics the soft glow of incandescent bulbs, making it ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas where relaxation is key. 3000K can feel too cold and stark, creating a more clinical atmosphere that’s less inviting. Choosing the right light temperature not only enhances the design and decor of your space, but also has an influence on your mood so it’s important to put thought into the temperature you choose.

Interested in working together on your Denver interior design project? Atelier Interior Design has the expertise and connections to make your dream home a reality. Contact us today!