Custom homeowners today embarking on building their dream home are well versed on how important lighting is to complete their project to their specifications. Lighting can refer to the architectural design allotting for maximum natural light to be present in important rooms, or it can specifically relate to the lighting design specifically tailored to achieve the maximum ambient affect desired.

Over the past several decades, the prominence of lighting specialists in the world of custom building luxury homes has soared as architects and builders alike have recognized the value of optimal lighting to accentuate their project.  Their trained eye on the details of illuminating spaces, along with extensive knowledge on the ever increasing options of the lighting elements and sources that extend far beyond fixtures themselves provides invaluable input into the interior and exterior details of a residence. The result of the collaboration with these experts has transformed many a custom built home project with exceptional results.

The home featured below provides an excellent example of lighting fixtures mirroring the aesthetic taste of the owners throughout the private and gathering spaces of this artfully designed home. Accenting the architectural lines of the home, the chandelier in the master bath and master bedroom are seamless in the transition of the private space, framed with complimentary lighting fixtures and strategically placed recessed lighting to achieve desired lighting affects in the space.

Versions of these artfully designed chandeliers are also present in the heart of the home, the kitchen and dining space. The chandelier adds an elegant touch over the dining table featured in the open concept kitchen, while more clean, contemporary lighting hangs over the central island, picking up the lattice design element of the cabinetry. The effect is a delicate delineation of the space while tying in the central design elements. This open concept kitchen/ dining space also strategically placed recessed lighting into the unique lines of the architecture, providing subtle accents where most needed.

Lighting should both reflect and enhance the design aesthetics of the home, which can be achieved subtly or as an artful statement. Consider the contemporary lake home retreat below. The clean modern lines of the open concept kitchen uses steps, ceiling variation and paint color to achieve the delineation between the kitchen and dining area. The dining area is clean with a neutral palate, while the modern ironwork lighting fixtures provide a bold artistic element. The ceiling mounted hood in the kitchen is similarly modern and clean, yet adds a bold dash of red with recessed lighting within. It is clearly the focal point of the room, complemented by simple industrial hanging fixtures over the island, which tie into the dining room.

Both of the examples provided illustrate the value of the lighting designer’s contribution while building and designing a luxury custom built home and are a valuable resource to both the architect and builder in realizing the home owner’s vision.