Lessons from a salon: How to improve lighting at home

The styling area at Essere Blu.

Sometimes clients ask if we have any easy ways to make lighting at home better. Good lighting can make your home feel cozier and more inviting, and there are some simple things you can do to improve your lighting. We can take direction from an unexpected project type: salons.

Color temperature, measured in kelvin (K), has a significant impact on how a space feels. (Chart below for reference.) At Essere Blu, consistency was the priority. Every track fixture, sconce, and pendant was set at 3500K, creating a continuous color temperature from shampoo bowl to styling station. While 4000K is often recommended for salons, the team chose a warmer approach to better reflect the lighting conditions found in most homes while still giving technicians the light they needed. 

The same principle applies at home. Most residential spaces are most comfortable between 2200K and 3000K, but whichever you choose, consistency matters. Mixing warm and cool light sources can make even a well-designed room feel off.

A few professional lighting tricks homeowners can borrow:

• Check the kelvin rating when purchasing bulbs or fixtures with integrated LEDs, and keep color temperatures consistent in every room.

• Install dimmers wherever possible. The ability to fine-tune light levels throughout the day adds comfort, flexibility, and control.

• In bathrooms, sconces on either side of a mirror provide more even, flattering light than overhead fixtures alone. In smaller spaces, illuminated mirrors are a great alternative.

• Instead of relying on a single ceiling fixture, layer lighting with lamps, sconces, and accent lighting to create warmth, depth, and a more inviting atmosphere.

Need help with lighting in your space? Send us a note and we’ll be in touch!

Kelvin Chart