Inspirations blog
Contemporary Interior Design Revolution: Painting With Light
“Interior lighting has evolved dramatically over the span of my 40 years in the design business,” says Perla Lichi, ASID. “Back in the day, we used what we called ‘high hats’ which were very limiting in what we could accomplish as designers.” She is referring to spot lights or can lights—recessed so that the fixture is flush with the surface and a bulb is inserted into the casing.
“Then there was track lighting, where the lights were fitted on tracks on walls or ceilings and each fixture could be re-positioned. These were nice, but they were one dimensional. The biggest change in interior lighting by far has been the introduction of LED strips.”
– Perla Lichi, ASID
LED strip lights originated in the early 2000s and with continuous changes and improvements, they really came into vogue in the design world in the 2020s. These lights consist of surface-mounted, light-emitting diodes on a flexible circuit board that usually has an adhesive backing.
With continuous improvements over the years, today LED strips can be used for task lighting, fluorescent and halogen lighting fixture replacements, as well as many indirect lighting applications.
LEDs come in a variety of hues and colors. A skilled, high end interior designer can transform an ordinary room that exudes artistry. According to The Wall Street Journal, not only are LEDs extremely efficient and effective at reducing home electricity costs, but they are allowing light designers to be more creative with lighting. Instead of standard track lighting with incandescent bulbs, homeowners can now use LED light bars or undercabinet lighting to adjust to the exact color or mood desired.”
Says Perla Lichi: “Nothing lights interior rooms like LED strip lighting. Interior designers love their versatility and functionality. LED strips are a practical addition to your interiors. They can last up to 50,000 hours. They are low voltage and dimmable. They can range from 2k to 3k and 5k.
“LEDs allow us to infuse an artistic touch, using different shapes, different levels of light, and changeable colors on ceilings, walls, and even furniture. The use of LEDs to under light countertops and other surfaces is extremely popular. Some clients love back lighting an entire wall. This really makes a statement and is a popular alternative to hanging art or using other types of wall decor.
“For homeowners, not only do LEDs create a unique, modern ambiance. They also cut down on household electrical usage.”
“With each modern luxury interior design project, when appropriate, I use LEDs in my interior design just like an artist would use a brush.”
