What you need to know about up lighting and downlighting shades

choosing lighting for home Title Sussex Magazine www.titlesussex.co.uk

When you are designing your home and thinking about décor, one thing you need to consider is lighting.

In particular, you are going to have to consider whether you want up lighting or downlighting shades. Let’s take a look at the difference between them and what they are going to offer your home.

Not only does this have a practical function in the home, but it is also crucial for style and creating the right energy in a room. Lighting has to be strategic so that you can enjoy a space functionally and aesthetically. Lighting adds sophistication to the smallest or largest of living spaces.

Uplighting or downlighting article on Title Sussex Magazine www.titlesussex.co.uk

Up lighting shades

First of all, let’s start with up lighting shades. Just as the name suggests, this is a shade that is directing light upwards. So, think about wall-mounted lights and how the shade is shaped to guide the light up the wall and toward the ceiling. Chandeliers are also classed as up lighting shades.

When do you want to use up lighting shades? Well, this can work in a number of scenarios. These shades work well when you are looking for accent lighting and highlight a certain area of a room. It can also be good for drawing the eye to certain artwork in a space or somewhere you want people to notice.

Alternatively, depending on the up lighting shade, it can be used in the center of a room and to illuminate a space. But, this is done in a nice and soft glow, since the light will be directed at the ceiling. It is easy on the eyes.

Downlighting shades

Next, you have downlighting shades. Think about a beautiful pleated lampshade or light you are going to have on a desk or other surface. Again, the clue is in the name. Downlighting shades have the job of directing light down to a certain area. They work well for illuminating areas such as a desk when you are working or you can add light to a corner of a room. The difference is that you get to enjoy the light downwards and onto a surface or floor area rather than up a wall or on the ceiling.

Therefore, downlighting shades can work well for functionality, as well as accent lights. The shape of the shade is going to play a big part in how the light spreads and what type of glow you are going to enjoy. Be sure to pay attention to the shape and size, as well as the material if you are choosing a lampshade.

Again, this plays a role in how much light is going to be given in a room. Some lovely materials to consider include silk, cotton and linen. White shades are going to give the most light while coloured shades are more about creating a relaxing glow.

Have you decided whether you want up lighting shades or downlighting shades? Often, a combination of both can create a nice style in your home. Consider what you want to highlight in a room, as well as the vibe you want to enjoy.

 

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