As we approach the darkest time of the year, it is worth bearing in mind that with a little planning, lighting can become a secret weapon for boosting winter warmth around your home.
Back in 1859, English novelist Wilkie Collins wrote: "Light is the first essential. Light stimulates, nourishes, preserves. You can no more do without it than if you were a flower."
Electric light was not a familiar feature in our homes at that point, but at this time of year, we may wonder how we ever did without it.
As the days shorten, cultivating a layered lighting scheme is vital, so leading interior design house Neptune has curated some tips to help you maximise the glow in your home.
Much as you would gather textiles on a bed, or china, glass, and candles at the dining table, this means punctuating your space with multiple points of light to create depth and character.
This can take the form of a pair of wall sconces to bounce the sheen off a favourite mirror, perhaps, or a tall floor lamp to brighten a dark corner.
Layered lighting schemes do involve some forward planning, and wiring for wall lights, for example, must be installed before decorating happens.
Configuring switches and sockets in advance is as important as the light fittings themselves, as there is nothing more frustrating than a lamp that cannot be switched on intuitively, from a convenient place, or an overhead light that won’t dim to a cosy glow.
However, there are plenty of easy ways to improve what you already have.
Clusters of small lamps, scattered on tables and surfaces, or even on floors to wash light upwards, can be marshalled on a more ad-hoc basis in winter.
They act much like cushions: practical yet decorative, bestowing inviting warmth.
Versatile rechargeable lamps can be moved around and placed on bookshelves, tables, or windowsills without the need for sockets, bringing forgotten areas to life.
As an alternative to a pendant, Neptune’s Coates and Soane directional ceiling lights highlight artwork, architectural features, or a simple coffee table arrangement with a soft, diffused light.
Task lighting also comes into its own in winter, so aim to create pools of light in the zones you gravitate towards, using table and floor lamps with adjustable features.
Consider swapping a fixed overhead light for an adaptable, rise-and-fall pendant with more atmospheric potential.
Think about switching up materials for those with maximum glow factor, and also take into account the light temperature, with warm white striking the balance between practicality and comfort.
