I’ve found that lighting is one of the most overlooked aspects of interior design, but its impact is
undeniable. Good lighting is the “jewelry” of a space — when well executed, it truly completes a
room. Here are my go-to tips when sourcing light fixtures for a renovation or new build:
● Allocate a proper budget for lighting. So many builders will allocate a lighting budget
that is grossly underestimated. A $1 million new build, for example, may only have a
$7,000 budget. Trust me, you’ll want to triple this number, if possible. It will be worth it!
For renovations or additions, ensure that lighting has its own line item.
● Shop around! The availability of good light fixtures is vast. For a bit of a splurge, my
go-to brands are Visual Comfort and Arteriors, but Ballard Designs also sells quality
fixtures. I recently installed three of these flushmounts in a project, and I love how the
fixture lends unexpected visual impact to an otherwise practical space, like a long
hallway or mudroom. Etsy is also a treasure trove of unique designs by small makers.
● Know before you buy. The return policies for many lighting brands are often fairly
strict, so consider creating a “mock” fixture from cardboard or paper to measure the scale
in your space. (I always tape out rugs or furniture before I purchase them, too.) Visual
Comfort also offers user-friendly guides for hanging all varieties of fixtures, and these
can be found at the bottom of each product page online.
● Add dimmers! This may seem obvious, but I can’t tell you how many times this step is
overlooked. If your electrician is installing a new light fixture in a space that you relax or
gather in, add a dimmer! The ability to dim the lighting instantly adds ambiance, and the
softer light reduces energy consumption and extends the life of the bulb.
