Scene Design

Understanding How Interior Design Companies Work: Lighting For Mood Part III - Dimmable Designs

Interior Design Companies understand the term "mood" to mean a barely-definable, abstract quality that makes us feel "in tune" with our surroundings. In London, lighting is often a critical part of an interior design company's toolbox in creating the perfect mood. In this series which I call "Lighting for Mood, " I will draw on my experience working with some of London's top interior design companies to describe current best practices in this exciting area of design.

The principle way in which interior design companies will control lighting is by dimming the various levels in relation to each other. General lighting, whether in the form of table lamps, up-lights or down-lights, should be controlled separately from feature lighting – especially in older London residences where there is a danger of overloading electrical circuits. By day, relative contrasts are less marked, especially given London's rainy weather patterns. When general lighting is at its maximum strength, interior design companies try to make sure it achieves a fairly even light throughout a room. By night, interior design companies will try to create atmosphere and mood by including a feature to dim general lighting to a low level and raise feature lighting. For maximum effect, interior design companies will make sure the contrast between different light sources is high. Alternatively, some London clients request a soft, inviting light, similar to that produced by candlelight; under these circumstances, the interior design company must ensure that the contrast between feature and general lighting is less marked.

Every interior design company knows that mood and atmosphere are very subjective and impact how we feel. After a hectic day in a brightly lit London office, coming home to a softly lit environment can have a very calming effect, helping us to relax and reducing stress. Alternatively, interior design companies may be asked to create an energetic and dynamic atmosphere – perhaps for a new London nightclub or classy restaurant. This requires lighting that is more dramatic, creating positive areas of brightness and darkness. While light is the key to changing mood, professional interior design companies know that the right levels of contrast are the means to success, achieved by controlling each lighting effect individually.

In the next article in this series on "Understanding How Interior Design Companies Work: Lighting for Mood, " I will discuss pre-set scene lighting.