We love an open concept space and often opt to include an open concept living room, dining room, and kitchen space in our projects. One of the more difficult things when designing an open concept space is choosing light fixtures! When selecting lighting in an open concept space, there are many things to consider. Multiple uses often call for multiple types and styles of light fixtures. For us, adding decorative fixtures in each zone of an open concept space allows you to define each individual area and include lighting for all types of purposes.
Today on the blog, we’ll be sharing how we choose lighting in an open concept space! We’ve also included some of our current favorite fixtures that pair well together. Keep scrolling, and we hope you learn something new!
Types of Light Fixtures
In general, there are a handful of light fixture categories that we use in every project. Those include pendants, chandeliers, lamps, flush mounts, and sconces. The type of light fixture we’ll use depends on the space!
For example, kitchen islands typically want decorative pendants. You’ll see us opt for two to three decorative pendants in a kitchen depending on the scale of the fixtures and the island. A dining area will call for one linear or simple down light in an open concept space. The only exception would be if you have an exceptionally large dining area, in which case a cluster of light fixtures can be a fun focal point moment. In a living space, you’ll typically need larger fixtures with more bulbs, or we’ll often choose to do can lighting to let the other fixtures in the open concept space shine. Accent walls such as fireplace walls or art walls might lend themselves well to a pair of sconces. Lastly, we tend to use floor lamps or table lamps in corner spaces that need a little extra optional lighting, like a reading nook. The option you choose will just depend on the amount of space you have – A narrow space may call for a floor lamp, whereas a larger nook with a side table works perfectly with a table lamp.
How To Pair Light Fixtures
Now that we’ve covered which type of light fixture to use in each space, let’s talk about how to choose fixtures that complement each other well! The first and most important thing to keep in mind is that there should always be a mix of materials, shapes, and sizes in your fixture pairings. For example, having fixtures that are see-through paired with a solid fixture can help break things up in your open concept space. We’ll often use an airy chandelier next to a solid drum light to create contrast. Try mixing glass fixtures with linen shades and metal fixtures throughout your open concept space.
Next, consider light fixtures in terms of the layers of light they can add to a space. An open concept space typically serves multiple purposes. For instance, you’d most likely want a different ambience when you’re entertaining at night versus cooking during the day. Adding layers of lighting through wall sconces, table lamps, and ceiling fixtures allows you to control the amount of type of light in your space at different times of the day and for different occasions. Paying attention to the number of bulbs, wattage, and visibility of bulbs will help you understand the amount of light a fixture gives off. This can allow you to choose appropriately for your space.
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We hope this post helps you choose lighting in an open concept space! For more of our favorite light fixtures, head to our affiliate shop where you can sort by category and space. To catch up on our design tips, check out our posts on cabinetry design tips and how to mix metals. As always, thank you for following along. Let us know in the comments what you’d like us to cover next!