Home & Interiors

How to Choose Lighting for a New Construction Project

Lighting works best when it is planned with the architecture. Start with how each space will be used, then layer ambient, task, accent, and decorative light where appropriate.

Start with function

Identify the activities that happen in each room. Kitchens, work areas, circulation spaces, bathrooms, bedrooms, and entertaining areas can require different lighting approaches.

Use daylight as part of the design

Window placement, orientation, shading, and room depth affect daylight. Electric lighting should complement those conditions rather than treating every room the same.

Think in layers

Ambient lighting provides general illumination, task lighting supports specific activities, and accent or decorative lighting can add emphasis and atmosphere.

Coordinate early

Fixture locations, ceiling conditions, switches, controls, cabinetry, mechanical systems, and structural elements can affect one another. Coordinating these items during design can reduce conflicts later.

Designing a new home or renovation?

ATECT Architecture can coordinate lighting and interior decisions as part of a larger residential design and documentation process.

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