Big Lighting Ideas for Small Rooms

Lighting a small space can be a tricky proposition. You are limited in the size of the fixtures you can use and need to be mindful of the intensity of the lights. Too much light can not only make the room way too bright, it can also create unnecessary amounts of heat which can make a small room needlessly uncomfortable.

Recessed Lighting

If the room is small, odds are the ceiling isn't going to be any higher than standard size. This may be a situation for recessed lighting. This way, there are no fixtures to clutter up the room. Normally recessed lighting can be problematic due to the fact that each light generally only illuminates a small space. A smaller space negates that problem. A few well placed recessed fixtures will provide ample lighting while maintaining a clean look in the room. The only downside is that recessed lighting will require some moderate effort, as you will have to cut holes in the ceiling and more than likely need to run wiring to the fixtures. If you can do this yourself, that's great. If not, definitely get a professional to do it for you!

Flexible Track Lighting

Track lighting has always been a personal favorite for lighting tricky spaces. The introduction of flexible tracks has made track lighting an even more attractive choice. Flexible track allows you to really customize your space. A couple tracks bent to fit opposite corners allows you to light up the room while again keeping the clutter of a large fixture to a minimum. Track lighting also gives the ability to direct the light for maximum effect. Check out www.tracklightinguniverse.com for an extensive selection of track lighting in a wide variety of styles. Track lighting also has the advantage of being relatively easy for most anyone to install.

Wall Sconces

The wall sconce is often overlooked when considering lighting for a room. However, in a small room, wall sconces really come into their own. They provide effective dramatic lighting and take up little to no space. Www.bellacor.com has a large selection of wall sconces. Installation of a wall sconce is relatively simple if you already have wiring in place. Otherwise you may find yourself calling an electrician to run wire to where you want the fixture. If you don't want to bother with the issue of wiring, there are several styles of wall sconce that plug into any outlet. The only downside to these styles is the unsightly cord hanging down the wall.

Floor Lamps

For me, a floor lamp would be my last choice. However that doesn't mean they can't do the job of lighting a small room. The trick is to use a minimum amount of fixtures. A single floor lamp that provides adequate light for the room is what's needed. An arc lamp with multiple arms (examples of this style and many others can be found at www.lampsplus.com) is a good choice. It can be placed in a corner and the arms can be directed where light is needed.

The bottom line when lighting a small space is "less is more." You want the maximum desired light while keeping the amount of space used to a minimum.