Knowledge Base

Ambient, Task or Accent Lighting

Utilizing space and selecting the right lighting is a vital point in designing, remodelling or creating an environment. Utilizing different lighting fixtures, lumens and color temperatures help in fulfilling a specific function.

There are a few important things to consider when designing yours space; lumens, color temperature, size and purpose.

The three categories of ambient, task or accent lighting can work together or separately to craft a space with distinctive, contemporary and functional lighting designs.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting is step one of any design processes. It helps create the general and uniform lighting for everyday living and is typically diffused, and often dimmable to accommodate both day and nighttime. It’s primary goal is to provide general distribution of light.

Things to consider are dimensions of the space, and beam angle of fixtures placed accordingly to accommodate a consistent level of lighting without dark areas.

Different types of ambient lighting:

• Ceiling-mounted or recessed fixtures
• Wall sconces or floor lamps – wash walls & ceiling with light
• Cove lighting – bounce light off celling & walls

Task Lighting

Direct, and targeted illumination over an area that requires more ambient lighting. Effective task lighting should minimize hot spots, glare, and multiple surface shadows.

Different types of task lighting:

• Recessed or track lighting
• Pendants
• Under-cabinet lighting
• Floor, desk and table lamps
• Bathroom vanity lights

Accent Lighting

Directional light with primary purpose of highlighting and bringing attention to a particular area, object or detail. This is the final layer to creating a space that frees up creativity and provides possibilities of creating a personalized detail. By using an illuminating and brighter directional fixture a interest point for the viewer is created.

Different types of accent lighting:

• Recessed Spot Lighting
• Wall lighting
• Track Lighting
• Wall-mounted picture light