What’s the Best Way to Light My Sunroom at Night?
During the day, sunrooms are usually the brightest room in the house. In fact, with abundant sunlight streaming in through their numerous windows, sunrooms can be overly bright without window treatments or tinted glass diminishing the glare, especially if there’s no overhead tree canopy to provide shade. Of course, once the sun goes down, all of that changes. Thoughtfully choosing your nighttime lighting will not only allow you to enjoy your sunroom at any hour, but also provide ample opportunities to create ambience by varying the style, placement, and intensity of your light sources.
The first thing you need to be aware of when lighting a sunroom at night is that because of all the glass, reflective surfaces abound. This makes for a unique challenge since light bouncing off numerous windows can undermine any careful attempt to control light levels and direction. For this reason, overhead lamps that direct a cone of illumination downward rather than outward are the best options for sunrooms. Equipped with long cords, pendent-style lamps hang down from the ceiling closer to the living area. This allows you to more easily focus the light exactly where you want it. Pendent lamps also come in a vast array of styles, so you’ll be able to choose a look that perfectly expresses your aesthetics.
Task lighting is also an important part of proper sunroom illumination. Any area used as a reading or sewing nook, office, or gaming area should have enough light to allow for detailed work without eye strain. If you have the space, a few strategically placed lamps with three-way bulbs will provide a cozy glow that can be adjusted to an intensity level that works best for you. For tighter spaces, an adjustable floor lamp may be the perfect solution. Again, the important thing is to be able to direct the light exactly where you need it.
Accent lighting is a great final touch for sunrooms. This is where you can really set the mood and give your space distinction. Backlighting a shelf, wall art, or large potted plant with low-watt lights will add drama and intrigue without drawing undo attention to itself. Recessed lighting can achieve a similar effect, but you won’t be able to use this kind of lighting along glass walls or ceilings. An LED tape light can create a luminous border along a desk, table, or door threshold, while candles can add a touch of charm to any counter.
Adding a sunroom to your home is always a bright idea, no matter how you decide to light it, and in the San Diego area no company has more experience building these beautiful additions than Pacific Patio. To learn more about our top-of-the-line products and installation services, contact us today and schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our representatives.
