One primary concern many people have in spending time in the basement is lighting. Many homeowners worry that their basement space will be dark and cave-like, especially in basements that lack windows. Lighting has come a long way, and some great options exist for creating light in your basement space. Let’s go over some great lighting options for your basement. 

RECESSED LIGHTING

Recessed ceiling lights are a great option for basements with minimal ceiling height. Recessed lights can be installed with drywall or suspended ceilings, and allow you to work with what you have. These are also a great option for homeowners who are above average height and worry about ceiling fans or ceiling fixtures on a regular basis. Remove the worry with recessed lighting.

GLASS DOORS

Installing glass patio doors can let lots of light into your basement space. Large double doors can also add the illusion of space to a smaller basement room. Natural light can soften the space as well as cutting down on energy use and daytime lighting requirements. Building codes in most areas require an exit from the basement in case of emergency, so take advantage of that requirement by adding additional windows or glass doors in that area.

LIGHT TUBES

Light tubes are traditionally used to add daylight by bringing light from above the house to interior rooms. However, it is also possible to use light tubes on side walls to help light areas that are below ground. Especially with new construction, light tubes can sometimes be used to bring light from outside even around corners and over significant distances. Light tubes installed high on the wall also add a feeling of height.

WALL LIGHTING

Sconces and wall lighting are a great option for basement spaces. Lights on the walls close to the ceiling allow the light to bounce, sometimes creating the illusion of a higher ceiling and maximizing the light from each fixture. In smaller basement spaces, wall lighting helps maximize the space by eliminating the need for floor space for lamps.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

It is always a good idea to consider efficiency when choosing your lighting. Using natural light by installing large windows is always a great way to achieve efficiency. When considering other fixtures, think about new technologies like LED that can greatly reduce the carbon footprint of your lighting needs.

HOW LIGHTING IS AFFECTED BY LIFESTYLE

While lighting choices for your basement vary greatly, there is a fairly simple way to choose the right lighting. The purpose of the basement remodel is to create specific living spaces to enhance your lifestyle. The lighting needs to enhance the overall look and feel of the newly created living space. You would want minimal lighting in a media room and bright lighting in a home gym, for example. Choose your lighting based on the overall use of the basement rooms.

Still need help? Call Matrix Basement Systems. We have offices in Chicago, Detroit, Ann Arbor, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania for your convenience.