An NJ HOME reader recently asked us the best ways to illuminate her home. Her question: “I don’t know a lumen from an LED. Can you please suggest the best light bulbs for key areas of the house?”
We sought the expertise of Cynthia Peralta-Brito, ASID, CID, owner and principal designer of Old Tappan-based CPB Interiors + Design. Here’s what she recommends:
“In simplest terms, a lumen is a unit of the total amount of light visible from a light fixture. LED stands for ‘light-emitting diode’ and is a component in a light fixture that conducts electricity and emits light. LED is revolutionizing lighting not only for its energy efficiency but also because of its ease of use and compactness. The key to using LED lighting in homes is remembering that our traditional source of light originally was fire, which emitted a warm color and temperature.
“Using LED light bulbs in living and dining areas with a 2700K temperature will cast a natural light within the space, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. In kitchens and bathrooms, we recommend LED light bulbs with a temperature of 3000K, which have the brighter, crisper feel needed for task-oriented spaces.
“And it goes without saying, installing dimmers is non-negotiable! Dimmers allow each light fixture to be set at different levels; with them, homeowners can adjust the tone or mood in each space depending on the activity.”
Do you have an interior design question for our experts? Email it to editor Rita Guarna.