Lighting is a fundamental element in interior design and has a huge impact on the feel and mood of a space. The two main types of lighting, direct and indirect, each have their own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages, and different uses. In this article from EDC, we will examine these two types of lighting, the equipment required, important points in implementing each, and how to combine them.

Direct Lighting

Direct lighting is a type of lighting in which light is directly shone from a light source onto a specific surface or area. This type of lighting is usually used to focus and emphasize specific points in a space. In direct lighting, the light comes directly from the lamp or light source and reaches the area that needs light.

Applications of Direct Lighting

Direct lighting is used in the following cases due to its high concentration of light and the creation of bright spots:

Lighting the workplace or study: This type of lighting is used to create sufficient and focused light on the desk or study.
Emphasis on artwork and wall decorations: Using direct lighting, the details and beauty of artwork and wall decorations can be highlighted.
Creating focal points in interior design: In interior design, direct lighting can be used to create focal points and emphasize specific parts of the space, such as cabinets, shelves, and other decorative elements.
Building facade lighting: In building facade design, facade lights and direct lighting are used to highlight architectural details and create special effects.
Lighting of stores and public places: In commercial and store environments, direct lighting is used to attract customer attention and better display products using store lights.
Indirect lighting

Indirect lighting is a type of lighting in which light does not shine directly from the light source to the desired surface, but is transmitted to the space through reflection from other surfaces. In this method, light is reflected from walls, ceilings and other reflective surfaces and is spread softly and evenly throughout the space.

Indirect Lighting Applications

Indirect lighting is used in various cases due to the creation of uniform light:

Residential spaces: In homes, indirect lighting is used in living rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms.
Public places: In hotels, restaurants and reception halls, indirect lighting helps create a beautiful space.
Offices and workspaces: In offices and large spaces, indirect lighting can provide uniform and suitable light that is suitable for working for long periods of time.
Commercial and retail spaces: In stores and shopping malls, this type of lighting is used to create uniform light throughout the space.
Libraries and educational centers: In places that require high concentration, indirect lighting can prevent eye fatigue and create annoying shadows.
Medical centers: In hospitals and clinics, this type of lighting helps create a calm and stress-free atmosphere for patients and medical staff.
Interior design: In interior design, indirect lighting is used to highlight decorative details and create attractive visual effects.
Behind walls and furniture: Installing hidden lights behind walls and furniture can create a unique space.
Comparison of direct and indirect lighting

For a better review, you can see the advantages and disadvantages of each of these two types of lighting in the table below:

Direct lighting criteria Indirect lighting

Tips for Direct and Indirect Lighting
Direct Lighting Tips
Adjusting the Angle: Make sure the lighting angle is adjusted to prevent glare.
Using a Dimmer: Using dimmers can adjust the light intensity and prevent eye fatigue.
Choosing the Right Lamp: Choosing quality lamps that are suitable for long-term use is important.
Indirect Lighting Tips
Choosing the Installation Location: Indirect lighting should be installed in places that can reflect light well.
Choosing the Light Color: The color of the light should be in harmony with the interior design and create the desired atmosphere.
Using the Right Equipment: Quality equipment is important to prevent energy waste and create uniform light.
Combining Direct and Indirect Lighting

Direct and indirect lighting can be combined. This combination helps the lighting design to benefit from both the benefits of direct and indirect lighting. But how can direct and indirect lighting be combined?

Using ceiling and wall lights:

In the lighting of the living room, living room and bedrooms, you can use the following ideas and suggested lights:

Ceiling lights can be used for indirect lighting to create uniform light.
In addition, you can use wall lights or floor lamps for direct lighting to illuminate specific points such as a sign or a study table.
Under-cabinet lighting:

In the lighting of the kitchen, you can use the following tips:

Indirect lighting can be used by under-cabinet lights to spread soft and uniform light on the work surface. Also, spot lights can be used to directly illuminate specific areas such as the stove or sink.
Offices:

In office lighting, both direct and indirect lighting are used. Consider the following ideas:

Using indirect lighting on the ceiling and walls to create soft lighting, along with table lamps with direct lighting, can help improve focus and reduce eye strain.

Restaurants and cafes:

Lighting for restaurants and cafes can vary greatly depending on the theme, decor style, and more. Keep the following points in mind:

Combining indirect lighting to create a relaxing atmosphere with direct lighting on tables and artwork can help attract customers and improve their experience.

Equipment Required for Direct and Indirect Lighting

Some of the lighting products required for direct and indirect lighting include:

Direct Lighting Equipment
Focused Lamps: Such as Halogen, LED, and Fluorescent Lamps
Ceiling Lights: Suitable for creating focus in specific areas
Wall Lights: To emphasize walls and artwork
Indirect Lighting Equipment
LED Strip Lights: Suitable for installation behind false ceilings and walls
Recessed Lights: Which are built into ceilings and walls
Adjustable Angle Lamps: To distribute light evenly
Summary

Direct and indirect lighting, each with their own characteristics and advantages, can be used in interior design. By accurately understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each and using the right equipment, desirable results in interior design can be achieved. Combining these two types of lighting can also help enhance the beauty of the space. If you are planning to purchase quality lighting products, you can contact EDC experts and benefit from free consultation for designing and selecting the right lighting products.