Inviting Lighting

The correct use of lighting is essential to creating an ambience. In the same way, dramatic music builds suspense in a movie, lighting works similarly by appealing to our senses, and it is well-documented that light affects our moods as our bodies respond to the psychological effects of light. Too much harsh white feels sterile, while too dim a room can bring you down. The best way to approach this is by adding different layers of light, not just for practical reasons so that you can adjust according to need but also to highlight specific areas, creating an atmospheric showcase.

As primary light, the most practical source is the ceiling, whether with discrete spots, a bold chandelier or a pendant. Apply a second layer implementing table and floor lamps, which can replace the ceiling light when softer mood lighting is required. For your third layer, employ the use of candles or, if in hospitality, consider gas-lit flambeaux for a dramatic statement and always give thought to light colour, select a soft natural hue to flatter and glow.

Finally, give thought to the materials. For example, while satin brass can help lift a darker backdrop, the rich hues and patination of a bronze finish add a moodier, more contemporary aesthetic. Don't be afraid to mix and match finishes for a fresh new take. This works well when the metals are tonally similar and can even be achieved within the same lighting fixture. For these reasons, we love the luminaires from the CTO Lighting collection. The Ring collection, in particular, melds beautifully with other designs but has enough diversity within the collection to hold its own entirely alone.

Chiaroscuro, in art, is the use of strong contrasts between light and dark, usually bold contrasts affecting a whole composition. It is also a technical term used by artists and art historians for the use of contrasts of light to achieve a sense of volume in modelling three-dimensional objects and figures.

The CTO Lighting Ring collection was inspired by strong light and shadows. The concept was to create this effect within one light fitting. The light from within highlights the differential between the ring sizes and adds a dramatic sculptural effect to the light. It is equally beautiful both on and off.

For these or the rest of the CTO range in the Caribbean, please contact LightStar at sales@lightstarlighting.com.

Lightbulb Moment

CRI and Light Binning