ᐅ Lighting for the Entire Home – Looking for Advice

Created on: 17 Aug 2020 20:35
H
Hamburch
H
Hamburch
17 Aug 2020 20:35
Hello everyone,
I am currently at the point of choosing lighting.

So far, mainly DIY store lamps have been installed in my current apartment (which have served their purpose), but now I want to treat myself to something nicer.

Especially the hallway and the dining table (extendable from 1.60 to 2.40 meters (5.3 to 7.9 feet)) are challenging me.
For the dining table, I could imagine three Gople or Orient P1 lamps (although they would need to be combined).
Since the dining room wall will be painted dark blue (SW Belem), I think copper or bronze could work well here.


Three copper pendant lamps hanging over a dining table; chairs next to it, glass on the table.



Copper-colored pendant lamp with teardrop-shaped shade in front of a dark wood wall.



Modern dining table with bread, olives, and wine; three glass pendant lamps hanging above.



Modern dining table in front of a dark green wall; vase with dried branches, bowl with tomatoes.


In the bedroom, I am considering an Artemide Pirce (mini).

A special challenge is the staircase area. There are three outlets: one above the landing, one at 5 meters (16.4 feet) height, and one at the terrace exit.
I have attached some photos. I have no idea what to do with these at all.


Unfinished living space with staircase on the left, large window front, and open passage on the right.



Narrow concrete shaft interior with metal ladder on the floor; cables hanging from the ceiling.



Construction corridor: exposed cable from ceiling, yellow hose on the floor, outdoor area visible.


There are many beautiful lamps, but what makes them “high quality”? Or is it like with wine in the end: quality doesn’t matter as long as it tastes good (or it looks good)?

I don’t want designer pieces throughout the entire apartment (my budget won’t allow that), but if it really clicks, I’m willing to spend more.
Stylistically, I am very drawn to Occhio Mito, for example, but that would exceed the budget.


Long, dark hallway with several ring-shaped ceiling lights, perspective looking forward.


I have also attached a floor plan to help with assessment.
The outlets are marked with an X, as usual.

Looking forward to ideas in any direction.


Floor plan of an apartment with kitchen, living room, hallway, balcony; legend on the left.
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nordanney
17 Aug 2020 20:49
Hamburch schrieb:

Or is it like with wine in the end—quality doesn’t really matter, as long as it tastes good (or it looks good)?

Yep. Although you will notice the quality difference compared to very cheap lamps. However, in my opinion, that difference doesn’t justify the extra cost for, for example, Artemide.

I haven’t even started my lighting design yet, so I can’t give you any concrete advice.
jakobus8520 Aug 2020 09:33
nordanney schrieb:

Yep. Although you will notice the quality difference compared to very cheap lamps, in my opinion it’s not worth paying extra for a brand like Artemide. At least that’s how I see it.

I agree. Primarily, lamps should be seen as decorative, in my opinion, but of course they should also serve their function. So it might be best not to opt for the absolute cheapest options. Spending a few extra dollars is fine to ensure quality isn’t neglected, but paying €900 for an Occhio Mito just for decoration isn’t really worth it. There are plenty of more affordable alternatives that look similar. When the time comes, we’ll probably search online for suitable lamps, as there are usually more choices than in typical stores, and in most cases, returns are not a problem.
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Bertram100
20 Aug 2020 17:12
I would choose the lamps at the very end. Furniture and the room’s atmosphere influence the effect of the lighting. Unless you feel confident enough to decide right from the drawing board.
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hampshire
20 Aug 2020 18:15
jakobus85 schrieb:

but paying 900€ for an Occhio Mito just for decorative purposes is not worth it.
That is a very general statement. It is worth investing in something that brings long-lasting joy. I don’t consider copied designs to be part of that. I would never wear a fake Rolex, Breitling, or Patek Philippe either. So if in doubt, then none at all. That doesn’t mean you can’t buy something very affordable.
As you probably already know, I’m a fan of the lamps from Less n More. They bring us a lot of joy, are made in Cologne, and are crafted by passionate experts and designers.
rick201823 Aug 2020 13:49
Also take a look at the Cirque by Louis Poulsen. Some versions come with copper finishes. I’m either for the original or nothing at all with @hampshire. The value is not determined solely by the material. Whether the price difference is worth paying is a personal decision. Classics also retain their value. Classics are currently experiencing a resurgence.