Invisibly creating atmosphere with lighting and acoustics
When decorating a home, most people initially think of the floor or the kitchen. In my opinion, there are two more important components that are essential to the atmosphere of the home. The first is lighting and the second is acoustics. Two basic elements that usually only come into play when the budget has already been spent and are unrewarding because they are “invisible.
With the switch to LED lighting, purchasing fixtures has become a maze for some people. I would recommend using a professional for this part. This can create a thorough lighting & electrical plan, focusing on the desired atmosphere.
Whereas previously we only had to pay attention to wattage, we now have several pieces of information to consider when purchasing fixtures. Are they dimmable? Not all fixtures are dimmable and not all bulbs are dimmable. In addition, the control system also counts when choosing dimmable fixtures and switchgear. What Kelvin do they have? Once you have chosen a color, it is nice for the overall light image to apply the same color in all fixtures. Lumens indicate how much light comes from the light source, which determines whether more or less light sources are needed for a room. And finally, the question of whether the CRI is high enough to guarantee color fidelity. In short; quite complex.
When the lighting is not good we notice it immediately. When it is, we don’t even realize it. That’s the power of a fully customized lighting plan. So taking this cost into account is a plus when setting up.
With the trend being fueled by large open spaces with generous living kitchens, sleek floors of hard materials and little small furniture, lack of acoustic damping is beginning to be noticed. A hollow or echoing sound makes the open space feel larger and more uncomfortable than it really is. In addition, hearing loss is a common but unknown phenomenon, especially as one ages. Reverberation and reverberation then distract and make listening tiresome. And this cannot be solved with curtains or rugs. It pays to invest in an acoustic ceiling finished with special tight stucco.
I have been on construction sites where the house was in a shell state, i.e. with concrete floors and walls, but already with an acoustic ceiling. The experience upon stepping into the rooms was a great surprise. Despite all the hard materials and working machinery, the sound was absorbed and immediately felt very comfortable. As if the fireplace was on. Applying an acoustically plastered ceiling is an investment that pays off because you don’t have to fiddle with wood-panel solutions to improve acoustics afterwards.
A client who understands that the basis for a comfortable atmosphere begins with the very elements that are not visible understands what luxury feels like.
Do you want to furnish your home comfortably and luxuriously?
See the projects of DE JUUL interior architecture here
Back to blog