At Hummell Brothers, we’ve seen firsthand how great lighting design in Murrysville can completely transform a space—and how easily it can go wrong if not planned properly. Whether you’re renovating a single room or updating your entire home, avoiding these common lighting design mistakes can help ensure your space is both beautiful and functional.
1. Relying on a Single Light Source
One of the most common missteps we see is relying on just one overhead fixture to light an entire room. This often results in shadows, dark corners and an uninviting atmosphere. A well-designed lighting plan includes multiple layers: ambient (general lighting), task (focused light for specific activities) and accent (used to highlight architectural or decorative features). Using a combination of these layers allows for flexibility and adds dimension to your space.
2. Ignoring Natural Light
Another mistake homeowners often make is failing to consider how natural light interacts with artificial lighting throughout the day. A room that’s filled with sunlight in the morning may feel dim by late afternoon. Incorporating dimmer switches or light fixtures with adjustable color temperatures can help your home adapt as daylight changes. At Hummell Brothers, we can help clients evaluate each room’s natural light and tailor lighting solutions that complement it rather than compete with it.
3. Skimping on Lighting in Work Areas
Kitchens, bathrooms, home offices and other task-heavy spaces need more than just general lighting. Poor task lighting can cause eye strain and make daily routines more difficult. Under-cabinet lighting in kitchens, vanity lights in bathrooms and dedicated desk lamps in offices are all smart additions that enhance usability while maintaining design appeal.
4. Choosing Style Over Function
Stylish fixtures can add character to a room, but if they don’t provide the right kind of light, they can end up being more decorative than useful. We always recommend selecting fixtures that balance form and function. You can have a stunning chandelier or pendant light, but make sure it gives off enough light for the room’s needs.
5. Forgetting About Dimmers
Installing dimmer switches is an easy and cost-effective upgrade that adds flexibility to your lighting design. They allow you to adjust the intensity of the light based on the time of day, the activity you’re doing or the mood you want to create.
At Hummell Brothers, we understand that lighting is more than just a finishing touch—it’s a key part of your home’s functionality and comfort. If you’re planning a renovation, let us help you design a lighting plan that avoids these pitfalls and brings your vision to life.
Ready to light up your home the right way? Contact Hummell Brothers today to get started! Give us a call today at 724-523-3611, contact us, or visit our store in Jeannette!
