How to Choose the Proper Lighting for a Basement
Colorado spoils us with plenty of sunshine, and while your basement can be a cozy place to get away, it needn’t feel like a dark cave. When starting a basement remodel project, let there be light! Nothing transforms a space like proper lighting–whether the finished area will be used for recreation, entertainment, living, or working (or a combination of these). Basement lighting differs from that in other areas of the house because typically there is less natural light and often the ceilings are lower. An effective lighting plan takes into consideration the variety of activities for which the basement will be used, and offers flexibility to create the right atmosphere for each activity.
Here are several points to consider when planning optimal basement lighting:
1. Maximize natural light
If your basement has windows or glass doors, don’t cover them with curtains or shades that block sunlight unless they can be easily pulled back. Consider adding more or larger windows (particularly on the south side) if your basement extends above ground. Light-colored walls and furnishings will enhance natural light.
2. Install sufficient artificial lighting
Provide enough overhead lighting in the form of fixtures, chandeliers or wall sconces to fully light the entire space at night. If this type of lighting is too harsh, consider installing dimmer switches to control the brightness.
3. Add accent lighting
Accent lighting tones down the harshness of overhead lighting. It enhances a room by highlighting particular objects, such as pieces of artwork, or simply by accentuating a certain area. Many lamps and light fixtures are works of art themselves and add to the personality and decor of the space. Placing accent lighting in areas you want to emphasize, such as a couch or media center, adds warmth and makes those areas more inviting.
4. Add task lighting
Plan to install adequate task lighting at work stations, under cabinets, and in storage closets. The type and strength of the lighting in these areas will depend upon their intended use. Remember–there should always be sufficient light to prevent eye strain.
5. Choose the correct type of light bulbs/light source
Incandescent bulbs
No longer manufactured in the US because of their poor energy efficiency, incandescent bulbs are becoming a thing of the past. They have the advantage of producing bright, warm light and being fairly inexpensive to purchase, however, they don’t last long and require more frequent replacement than energy-efficient bulbs.
Fluorescent bulbs
Highly efficient, fluorescent bulbs last almost 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs and use only one-third of the energy. Their harsh white light, however, makes them an unappealing choice for many living spaces.
LED lights
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) emit a strong beam of light. LEDs can last 10 times longer than fluorescent bulbs, making them extremely energy-efficient. Though significantly more expensive than incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, the investment pays off in their low operating cost, long life, and high efficiency.
Halogen lights
Halogen lights give off the warmest, most radiant light of all the bulbs. They are well-suited to task lighting and track lights, but are not available for all types of fixtures and applications. In terms of energy efficiency they fall between incandescents and fluorescents.
6. Plan out the location of switches.
Place electrical switches where they are easily accessible, close to doorways (ideally on the same side as the doorknob) and at the same height as the other switches in the house. Switches for overhead lights should be located where they can be turned on before reaching the basement. For convenience and flexibility, include different switches for separate areas of the room.
