Rectangular Lights: A Bedroom Design Choice?

The lighting in a bedroom is essential for creating a relaxing atmosphere. While natural light is important, artificial lighting can also play a key role in setting the mood and providing illumination for specific tasks. When it comes to rectangular light fixtures in the bedroom, there are a few options to consider, such as recessed lighting and rectangular chandeliers.

Recessed lighting, also known as pot or can lights, can provide a modern look and be used for general, accent, or task lighting. The spacing of these lights depends on the desired light intensity and the height of the ceiling. A typical rule of thumb is to place them 24 from each wall and 3-5 feet apart.

Rectangular chandeliers, on the other hand, offer a sophisticated and versatile lighting solution. They come in various styles, materials, sizes, colours, and finishes, making them suitable for different design aesthetics. These chandeliers can add a touch of elegance and provide soft, diffused light, making them a modern alternative to traditional ceiling lights.

Ultimately, the choice of lighting depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the bedroom space.

Placement of rectangular light

The placement of rectangular light in a bedroom depends on several factors, including the size and shape of the room, the height of the ceiling, the amount of natural light, and the desired ambiance. Here are some tips for placing rectangular lights in a bedroom:

• Consider the function of the light: Is it meant to provide general lighting, accent lighting, task lighting, or wall wash? This will help determine the best placement for the light.
• Choose the right type of light: Recessed lighting is a popular choice for bedrooms as it provides a clean, modern look and can make the room appear larger. LED bulbs are energy-efficient and long-lasting, making them a good option for rectangular lights.
• Calculate the spacing: The spacing of the lights depends on the ceiling height and the desired brightness. A common rule of thumb is to divide the ceiling height by two to get the distance between each light. For example, in a room with an 8-foot ceiling, the lights should be spaced roughly 4 feet apart.
• Avoid placing the light directly above the bed: This can be uncomfortable and cause too much light in one area. Instead, try to centre the light in the room or place it where it can provide the most even lighting.
• Consider the natural light in the room: If the bedroom has a lot of natural light, you may not need as much artificial light. Place the rectangular light in an area that complements the natural light and ensures the room is well-lit throughout the day.
• Create a focal point: The bed is typically the focal point of a bedroom, so consider placing the rectangular light above or near the bed to draw attention to this area.
• Mix and match light sources: Combine rectangular lights with other light sources such as lamps, wall sconces, or accent lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
• Consider the size and placement of furniture: Ensure that the rectangular light is placed in an area that does not obstruct the flow of the room or create dead spaces. Place it in a position that complements the furniture arrangement and does not cast shadows on specific areas.

Lighting colour

The lighting in your bedroom is extremely important, not only for creating the right atmosphere but also for your health and wellness. The type of light you use can affect your sleep pattern and make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.

The body's natural sleep and wake cycle is known as the circadian rhythm. Blue light wavelengths play a pivotal role in this. During the day, you receive a lot of natural blue light directly from the sun. This sends messages to your hormonal system to ensure your body is alert, awake, and productive. However, this natural cycle can be impacted by LED lights that emit artificial blue light, causing issues such as insomnia and mental health imbalances.

Therefore, it is best to use light bulbs that block blue light in your bedroom. Pure red and amber light bulbs are best as they help create a relaxed and ambient environment that is conducive to sleep. Red and amber light bulbs are also the best option for encouraging healthy sleep and biological function.

In terms of colour temperature, a warmer light is "redder" and has a lower Kelvin temperature, whereas a cooler light is "whiter" and has a higher Kelvin temperature. For context, 2700K is "warmer" than 6500K. As a rule of thumb, cooler colour temperatures promote energy and alertness, while warmer colour temperatures promote feelings of rest and coziness.

For your bedroom, it is best to opt for a softer, warmer light. In Kelvin terms, this means using light bulbs that fall within the 2700-3000K range.

Lighting brightness

The brightness of a light is measured in lumens, which is the total quantity of visible light emitted by a light source. The number of lumens you need in your bedroom will depend on the size of the room, the colour of the walls, and your personal preferences.

A standard 100-watt incandescent light bulb produces about 1,500-1,700 lumens. LED lights with the same lumen output provide a higher Colour Rendering Index (CRI), meaning they more accurately reveal the colours of the objects they illuminate.

A bedroom is a space for relaxation, so the ideal lighting will be softer and warmer. The recommended brightness for a bedroom is between 2,000 and 4,000 lumens, with an LED colour temperature of around 2,700 K.

To calculate the number of lumens required for your bedroom, you can use the lumen method. First, determine the size of your room by multiplying the length and width of the room to get the square footage. Next, establish the foot-candle requirement for your room. Foot-candles are a measurement of light intensity on a one-square-foot surface from a uniform light source. The recommended foot-candles for a bedroom are 20-40. Finally, multiply the room square footage by the foot-candle requirement. For example, a 100-square-foot bedroom with 20 foot-candles will need 2,000 lumens, while a 100-square-foot bedroom with 40 foot-candles will need 4,000 lumens.

If your bedroom has high ceilings, you may need to adjust the number of lumens required. Higher ceilings typically require more lights as the light diffuses more before reaching the floor. Additionally, the colour and darkness of the walls, ceiling, and furniture will impact the amount of light needed, as these elements absorb a significant amount of light.

You can also adjust the lighting in your bedroom by using a combination of light sources, such as lamps and ceiling lights, and installing dimmers to adjust the brightness as needed.

Lighting style

The lighting style you choose for your bedroom is an important consideration, as it plays a key role in creating the right atmosphere for relaxation and comfort. Here are some tips and ideas to help you choose and style your bedroom lighting:

Ambient and Task Lighting

Incorporate both ambient and task lighting to create a welcoming and functional space. Ambient lighting provides overall illumination, while task lighting focuses on specific areas, such as bedside tables or a reading nook. Consider the placement of your lights to ensure adequate lighting in key areas.

Statement Chandeliers

Rectangular chandeliers are a stylish and versatile option for bedrooms. They offer a sophisticated lighting solution and can serve as a stunning focal point. Available in various styles, materials, sizes, colours, and finishes, you can choose a chandelier that complements your existing décor and colour scheme. Opt for metallic finishes like chrome or brushed nickel for a modern look, or go for warmer options like bronze or brass for a rustic feel.

Recessed Lighting Layout

If you're considering recessed lighting, careful planning is essential. Calculate the correct placement by dividing the height of your ceiling by two to determine the ideal distance between each light. For accent lighting, a good rule of thumb is to space the fixtures 4 to 6 feet apart. Additionally, consider the function of your lighting. Do you want general lighting to illuminate the entire room, or do you need accent or task lighting for specific areas?

Natural Light

Maximise natural light in your bedroom to make the space feel more spacious and inviting. Place your bed strategically to allow natural light to stream in, and avoid overcrowding the room with bulky furniture. Opt for minimalist pieces and use rugs, pillows, and throws to add colour and texture without overwhelming the space.

Lighting Placement

When placing your bedside tables and lamps, ensure they are within easy reach of the bed. As a general rule, bedside tables should be placed 2-4 inches from the bed frame, and lamps should be positioned so that the light shines downwards. Avoid placing lights directly above the head of a sleeping person, and consider using a dimmer for a cozier atmosphere.

Lighting size

When it comes to lighting size, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, the size of the room and the height of the ceiling will determine the number and placement of light fixtures. For example, a higher ceiling may require more lights as the light will diffuse more before reaching the floor. Additionally, the desired level of brightness will impact the number of lights needed, with brighter rooms requiring more light fixtures.

The type of light bulb and its spread of light, or angle of light, is another important factor. Bulbs with a wider spread will cover a larger area but may result in more diffused light. The wattage of the bulbs also plays a role, as lower wattage bulbs will require more lights to achieve the same level of brightness as higher wattage bulbs.

When installing recessed lighting, the spacing between each light fixture and the distance from the wall should be considered. A typical rule of thumb is to allow for 24 inches from each wall, and then 3 to 5 feet between each light fixture. However, this spacing may vary depending on the room's size and intended use. For instance, a bedroom may require less lighting compared to a kitchen or living room.

In terms of specific light fixture sizes, rectangular LED lights come in a variety of dimensions. For example, common sizes include 1x2 feet, 1x4 feet, and 2x4 feet. These lights typically range from 20 to 75 watts and can be dimmable or non-dimmable. Chandeliers and pendant lights also come in rectangular shapes and can be a stylish addition to a bedroom, offering soft and diffused lighting.

When choosing light fixtures, it is important to consider the size of the room, the height of the ceiling, the desired level of brightness, and the type of light bulbs that will be used. By taking these factors into account, you can create a well-lit and functional space that meets your specific needs and design preferences.

Frequently asked questions