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.
Field context
This workflow is part of 4 niche fields
Complete guide for lighting design plan — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Inventory ambient, task, and accent fixtures; note room uses (reading, dining, grooming) and ceiling height for fan and pendant sizing.
Assign target lux per zone, select fan blade span for room area, and choose 2700–4000K per activity using the color temperature selector.
Mount ceiling fans on rated boxes, hang pendants at proper height, install LED trims, and wire dimmers matched to total fixture wattage.
Test 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.
Assigns target illuminance levels for each room zone based on activity and surface reflectance.
Selects fan blade span and downrod length appropriate for room area and ceiling height.
Harmonizes bulb Kelvin ratings across open-plan spaces for consistent mood.
Sizes accent lighting wash for art walls or architectural features.
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 |
Plan ambient + task + accent together — adding only overhead cans leaves rooms flat and shadowy.
Mixing 2700K and 4000K in one open space makes walls look dingy or sterile in transition zones.
Hire a licensed electrician for new circuits or panel work — DIY errors cause fires.