Basement Lighting Maine

The majority of basements are subterranean—underground. This impedes, if not negates, the option of installing large windows. Some basements, if they are constructed on a slope, may have large windows or sliding glass doors, which can help let in natural light. However, many basements are restricted to small light inlets, which will not accomplish much on their own for letting in light.

Another problem is the lack of enough artificial lights. People may not realize that more light is necessary in the basement; after all, if only a few lights are needed upstairs, why would downstairs be different? The abundance of natural light in the upper levels of a house add a great deal to the illumination of the upstairs, but since this is considerably reduced in the basement, artificial lights need to make up the difference.

Especially if your basement is one of the main living areas in your home (maybe an entertainment center, or a home office), lack of light can be detrimental to the general atmosphere. A skillfully-lit basement is inviting and is more convenient for activities. Even if your basement is small and you only use it for storage, well-placed cellar lighting can help you find your way around boxes and other stored items without tripping or fumbling in the dark for that lost box.

Natural light is the least expensive and most efficient way to light up any room in the house. The problem with most basements is that most are built underground, and large windows are simply not an option. Some basements have long horizontal windows; if so, try to let in as much light as possible without obstruction on either side of the window. Even better are basements built onto slopes, or those with glass doors. Letting in as much natural light as possible will help lend an appealing atmosphere to your basement, especially if it is used as a living area.

If your basement is partitioned, consider using double-wide or glass-paned doors to allow light to flow from one room to another. Glass-paned entry doors from the upper rooms of the house will also help let natural light filter to the lower level. Also, simply painting your walls a light color will help accentuate any natural light that enters the basement. Semi-transparent curtains will lend a glow of natural light while retaining privacy.

Artificial lights will be the dominant source of light for most basements. The inherent lack of natural lighting means that careful consideration must be placed in artificial light sources. Lighting fixtures must be bright enough to make up for the absence of natural light. Too many lights, however, can create a cluttered appearance. Strategic use of light sources can fully illuminate an otherwise dark basement, and can also cast an appropriate mood depending on how the basement will be used.

Office spaces may benefit from artificial light that mimics natural light. Halogen or fluorescent lights may be good for office rooms, hobby tables, and workstations. These provide very bright sources of light and are well suited for work and business functions in a basement. However, fluorescent lights may not be as suitable for basements that are used as a living area. Halogen lights with dimmer switches may be more suitable for entertainment centers, or just for relaxing on an overstuffed sofa.

Recessed lighting in the ceiling will help give the basement a roomier atmosphere, and can provide great illumination. Recessed lighting fixtures also allow for activities such as table tennis, with little risk of balls hitting exposed light bulbs. With dimmer switches, recessed lights offer a relaxed atmosphere to a basement set up with a lounge area or entertainment center.

Floor lamps can also add a fine touch to a basement. These are also relatively inexpensive, and can provide adequate illumination, if spaced strategically around the room. They also provide excellent light for reading, as will smaller desk lamps. Finally, lamps may be set up behind wall semi-transparent draperies, illuminating the entire wall and giving a classy look to the basement. This method is good for general lighting, but you will still want to have a few more sources of light outside the curtains.

All kinds of artificial light fixtures are available at hardware stores, and can be quite inexpensive depending on the type. Go ahead and shop around a little to make the choice that is right for your basement. You may find good deals on the Internet, as well.

Royal Kitchen Designs "Women Designing Kitchens"

954-717-1805
5608 S. Travelers Palm Lane
Tamarac, FL
www.royalkitchendesigns.com/