Audit Existing Layers and Room Functions
45 minutesInventory ambient, task, and accent fixtures; note room uses (reading, dining, grooming) and ceiling height for fan and pendant sizing.
Intermediate1-2 weeks
Lighting Design Plan
Complete guide for lighting design plan — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
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Workflow
Calculate Lux, Fan Span, and Color Temperature
1.5 hoursAssign target lux per zone, select fan blade span for room area, and choose 2700–4000K per activity using the color temperature selector.
Install Fixtures and Dimmer Circuits
1-2 daysMount ceiling fans on rated boxes, hang pendants at proper height, install LED trims, and wire dimmers matched to total fixture wattage.
Program Scenes and Verify Layer Balance
1 hourTest bright task, dim ambient, and accent-only scenes at night; measure lux at key surfaces and adjust bulb wattage or add fill where shadows persist.
Tools Used
- Lighting Lux CalculatorPrimary
Assigns target illuminance levels for each room zone based on activity and surface reflectance.
- Ceiling Fan Size by RoomPrimary
Selects fan blade span and downrod length appropriate for room area and ceiling height.
- Color Temperature SelectorSupporting
Harmonizes bulb Kelvin ratings across open-plan spaces for consistent mood.
- Accent Wall AreaReference
Sizes accent lighting wash for art walls or architectural features.
Checklist
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Planning
Safety
Electrical
Quality
Execution
Reference Materials
Residential Lux RecommendationsTable
Illuminating Engineering Society guidelines adapted for homes.
| Room/Zone | Recommended Lux | Layer |
|---|---|---|
| Living ambient | 100–300 | Ambient |
| Kitchen counter | 500–750 | Task |
| Bathroom vanity | 500 | Task |
| Bedroom relax | 50–150 | Ambient |
| Hallway | 50–100 | Ambient |
Fan Size FormulaFormula
Blade span (in) ≈ room length (ft) + room width (ft); round to nearest standard size (42, 52, 60 in).
Dimmer CompatibilityStandard
Total LED wattage on a dimmer must not exceed the dimmer rated load; use manufacturer compatibility lists.
Layer Before Buying
Plan ambient + task + accent together — adding only overhead cans leaves rooms flat and shadowy.
Consistent Kelvin
Mixing 2700K and 4000K in one open space makes walls look dingy or sterile in transition zones.
Licensed Electrician
Hire a licensed electrician for new circuits or panel work — DIY errors cause fires.
Safety Notes
- Test paint colors in the actual room with actual lighting before committing.
- Secure heavy furniture and shelving to walls to prevent tip-overs.