Small homes and studios
Sleeping zone Lighting Design for Small homes and studios
Place light where people work or read faces. Layer task light over ambient light and test glare from occupied positions.
Explore the ideas
Plan in this order
- Mark tasks, viewing angles and screen locations on the furniture plan before placing fittings.
- Separate regularly used tasks from the room's general lighting so each can be controlled independently.
- Test the proposed fitting and finish sample together. Glossy finishes can reflect a bright source directly into view.
Worked example
A central ceiling light shines directly into the eyes of someone reading in bed.
Add separately switched, shielded bedside reading lights and a soft general source controlled at the doorway.
How to test it
Check the space in daylight and after dark. Stand and sit where people actually use it, and check controls from the entry.
Apply it to this space
- Layout
- Place the bed in the least-through area and use a low or open divider if separation is needed.
- Detail
- Use wall-mounted reading lights and under-bed drawers for seasonal items.
- Trade-off
- A full-height partition adds privacy but cuts light and air movement.
- Check daylight reaches the rear zone
- Test bed access and drawer clearance
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