Basement Lighting
Basement Lighting
Proper
Basement Lighting Techniques Adding light, whether it is natural or
artificial, can make a significant difference in your basement's overall
feel. Since basements tend to be dark and gloomy, adding light should be
your first step. If part of your basement is above ground, take advantage of
this by having as many windows as possible. You should let in natural light
wherever possible so look for simple window treatments that allow the most
light to pass through.
Make Creative Use of Artificial Light
Typically, basement ceilings are low, so that you get the feeling you're in
a cave. To offset this, use indirect lighting that splashes large pools of
light on the ceiling. This will open up the space and make rooms appear
higher than they are. A mix of this up-lighting and traditional recessed
lighting will give you the flexibility you need to create a variety of
lighting moods. Mirrors, mounted on the walls or even ceilings, can also
amplify and reinforce lighting effects.
When natural light isn't an option, artificial light can be used abundantly
to create a warm atmosphere. No fluorescent light please! (While fluorescent
lighting is very cost effective and energy efficient, it is not the most
appealing option speaking in terms of design.) Table and floor lamps work
well and some ceiling lighting can be used also.
Quick Tip
Use mirrors to reflect light.
Occupancy Sensors
Add energy efficiency and hands-free convenience with occupancy sensors.
When you come down the basement stairs with your hands full, these sensors
will turn on the lights automatically, keep them on while you are moving
around the room and turn the lights off after you leave.
Recessed Lighting
Use recessed lights for basic general lighting where you have room in the
ceiling for recessed lighting. Incandescent recessed lights give a brilliant
white light and a brighter look in basement areas.
Surface Mounted Spotlights and Directional Lights
Perfect for decorative lighting effects where you don't want to install
track lights or recessed lights. Use surface-mounted spotlights and
directional lights to highlight pictures and architectural elements. Spot
lights and directional lights also provide task lighting in kitchens, home
offices, bathrooms and other areas where task lighting is needed.
Track Lights
Incandescent track lights give a brilliant white light. In a basement, they
give the space a more finished look. Click here for our selection of track
lighting.
Quick Basement Lighting Tips
ˇ Turn off the lights in any room you're not using, or consider installing
timers, photo cells, or occupancy sensors to reduce the amount of time your
lights are on.
ˇ Use task lighting; instead of brightly lighting an entire room, focus the
light where you need it. For example, use fluorescent under-cabinet lighting
for kitchen sinks and countertops under cabinets.
ˇ Consider three-way lamps; they make it easier to keep lighting levels low
when brighter light is not necessary.
ˇ Use 4-foot fluorescent fixtures with reflective backing and electronic
ballasts for entire basement.
ˇ Consider using 4-watt mini-fluorescent or electro-luminescent night
lights. Both lights are much more efficient than their incandescent
counterparts. The luminescent lights are cool to the touch.
ˇ Recessed lighting in basements creates a more open atmosphere than surface
fixtures and are less likely to be broken by child play.
ˇ Use shallow housings for basements where vertical installation space is
limited such as 2" x 6" construction
ˇ A-lamp multipliers provide a more diffuse, uniform lighting
ˇ Narrow beam lamps create more dramatic effects on objects and artwork.
Updated 7/17/2011 10:38:10 AM
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