Homes & Gardens
How To Create Atmosphere With Lighting
The right lighting can completely change the ambience of a space. We asked a top designer how to create warmth and drama at the flick of a light switch.
Emma Gurner is an award-winning interior designer whose practice, Folds Inside, launched in 2016. Seven years on, her work has graced the pages of style bibles including Marie-Claire Maison, The Daily Telegraph and Mad About The House. Having previously collaborated with John Lewis and Made.com, Emma has just launched a lighting collection with Houseof, an independent online lighting brand founded by Helen White and Michael Jones.
Noted for her joyful use of colour, Emma’s collection – which comprises six pieces – is all warm yet punchy tones married with sharp pleats and undulating ribbing, starting at £199. She says, ‘This collection explores how different colour combinations work harmoniously together. The range was inspired by vintage designs, with a contemporary twist. My aim was to produce a lighting range that complimented the edgy style of houseof whilst introducing an element of my own bold and colourful style.’
We asked her to share her top five take-away tips for creating atmosphere with lighting.
All rooms should have ambient or general lighting to fill the room with light. You should consider how much natural light the space has, as well as the function of the room. This would be the starting point for a lighting scheme, but on top of this you should add different layers of light to create different moods.
The layering of different lighting options is the basis of a good lighting scheme. For example, decorative lighting, such as chandeliers, wall sconces and table lamps, will add a softer light. A pendant light over a dining table is a great way to add atmosphere when entertaining, while table and floor lamps are a perfect for creating a calm and cosy vibe.
Consider what you would like to highlight in the room to create a focal point. For example, directing light to a piece of art will add impact and drama.
Task lighting is another layer that should be considered. You will need task lighting for work related activities such as chopping food in the kitchen or reading in the bedroom.
And finally, do add some candles for a relaxing soft glow.
By Nancy Alsop
July 2023
Noted for her joyful use of colour, Emma’s collection – which comprises six pieces – is all warm yet punchy tones married with sharp pleats and undulating ribbing, starting at £199. She says, ‘This collection explores how different colour combinations work harmoniously together. The range was inspired by vintage designs, with a contemporary twist. My aim was to produce a lighting range that complimented the edgy style of houseof whilst introducing an element of my own bold and colourful style.’
We asked her to share her top five take-away tips for creating atmosphere with lighting.
Emma Gurner's Top 5 Tips for Lighting A Room
All rooms should have ambient or general lighting to fill the room with light. You should consider how much natural light the space has, as well as the function of the room. This would be the starting point for a lighting scheme, but on top of this you should add different layers of light to create different moods.
The layering of different lighting options is the basis of a good lighting scheme. For example, decorative lighting, such as chandeliers, wall sconces and table lamps, will add a softer light. A pendant light over a dining table is a great way to add atmosphere when entertaining, while table and floor lamps are a perfect for creating a calm and cosy vibe.
Consider what you would like to highlight in the room to create a focal point. For example, directing light to a piece of art will add impact and drama.
Task lighting is another layer that should be considered. You will need task lighting for work related activities such as chopping food in the kitchen or reading in the bedroom.
And finally, do add some candles for a relaxing soft glow.
By Nancy Alsop
July 2023
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