One of my favorite elements of our new loft home is our contemporary lighting. It really is the cherry on top of your decor. Unless you can customize all the overhead lighting in your home, which we as renters certainly cannot, you must create personality and atmosphere in your space through lighting. (You may have seen a sneak preview of our DIY chandelier a few months ago.)
If you've ever dropped by Apartment34.com, you might have noticed that my husband and I have moved three times in the last year; first from Seattle and then into two different spots in San Francisco. The new loft is not too small, it’s not too big. It’s just right and I'm so excited to reveal it! Take a peek at our bedroom and living room:
When we selected our "loft lights" we focused on a few key elements that I recommend everyone keep in mind. These are my top 3 contemporary lighting tips:
Tip #1: Indirect Is Best
An abundance of lamps lets you create a warm and welcoming glow in your space, rather than be subject to a harsh glare. Dot corners, hallways and bookcases with lamps and you'll be able to create the perfect ambience.
Tip #2: Use A Lamps as a Statement-Maker
We selected the Jumbo Architect Floor Lamp for the standout statement it would make in our living room. We loved the oversized piece's twist on the standard arc lamp that you might expect to see in a modern space. We found the super-sized option to be more playful and fun.
Tip #3: Mix and Match
Lamps, like jewelry, are the ultimate accessory. You can use them to change the tone of any room. I played with different lamp styles all over the loft to give an organic feel to our design. While each one selected fell within the general contemporary style, the Jonathan Adler Table Lamps look nothing like the lamp in our living room, but the both serve to reinforce our relaxed, modern style.
Images via Apartment 34.