Are you tired of looking at the dull glow emanating from those fluorescent lights in your office? If so, we have good news for you! With a few easy steps, it’s possible to transform these bright and often unflattering bulbs into something that adds warmness and style to your workspace.
In this blog post, we’ll provide tips on making fluorescent lighting look better – without having to access hard-to-reach light fixtures or break out the toolbox whenever you want a different lighting effect. We’ll cover topics such as choosing the right bulb type, incorporating natural light sources whenever possible, and styling with accent pieces that bring personality to any space.
Keep reading for all the details on how to make fluorescent lights look better – plus expert ideas that will make over your room in no time!
What Will You Need?
Before you start, make sure that you have all the necessary supplies. This includes the following:
- Fluorescent light bulbs
- Fixtures and frames to install the bulb in
- Light dimmers, if desired
- Decorative accents such as throw pillows or lamps
- Natural sources of light like plants or floor lamps
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary supplies, it’s time to start transforming your space!
10 Easy Steps on How to Make Fluorescent Lights Look Better
Step 1. Choose the Right Bulb Type:
The first step to making your fluorescent lights look better is by choosing the right bulb type. Look for bulbs that emit a warm, soft glow rather than the harsh, bright light often associated with fluorescent bulbs.
Opt for full spectrum bulbs, which mimic natural sunlight. This will help create a more comfortable and inviting atmosphere in your space. Remember to consider the size and shape of the bulb as well to ensure it fits your fixtures and complements your room’s overall aesthetic.
Step 2. Adjust Bulb Position:
Correct placement of the bulb can greatly enhance the lighting effect. You need to ensure that the light’s position is such that it does not cast unflattering shadows or create glare. Try to place your bulbs at a higher point, aiming downwards, or diffuse the light by using reflectors or light diffusers. Play around with different positions to see what works best for your room.
Step 3. Incorporate Dimmers:
Having control over the intensity of your lighting can significantly impact the room’s ambiance. This is where dimmer switches come in. They allow you to adjust the brightness of the light to suit your needs at any given time.
For instance, you may want brighter light when reading or working and dimmer, more relaxed lighting for unwinding after a long day. Installing dimmers is relatively simple and can be a game-changer in making your fluorescent lights look better.
Step 4. Use Light Covers:
Light covers can be a great way to enhance the look of your fluorescent lights. They come in a variety of styles and designs, from sleek and modern to ornate and decorative, allowing you to choose one that matches your room’s decor.
Additionally, light covers help to diffuse the light from fluorescent bulbs, reducing harsh glares and creating a softer, more ambient lighting effect. Install light covers over your existing fluorescent fixtures to instantly improve their appearance and the quality of light they emit.
Step 5. Add Decorative Accents:
You can use decorative accents like lamps, string lights, or lanterns to make your fluorescent lights look better. These not only provide additional sources of light but also contribute to the overall aesthetic of your room.
Place a desk lamp with warm lighting on your workspace, hang string lights around the room for a cozy feel, or use a stylish floor lamp in a corner to add a unique design element. Remember, the goal is to create balanced lighting that complements your space and creates a warm, welcoming environment.
Step 6. Incorporate Natural Light:
Wherever possible, use natural light to your advantage. Natural sunlight creates a balanced, vibrant atmosphere that fluorescent lights alone can’t replicate. Open your blinds or curtains during the day to let the sunlight in.
Also, consider strategically using mirrors to reflect natural light and brighten the space. This blending of natural and artificial light will soften the look of your fluorescent lights, making your space feel more comfortable and inviting.
Step 7. Use Plants to Soften the Light:
Incorporating plants into your space can greatly enhance the ambiance and make fluorescent lights look better. Plants add a touch of nature and freshness to your room and diffuse the light, creating a calmer and softer lighting effect.
Opt for indoor plants that thrive in low light conditions, such as snake plants or peace lilies. Position these plants around the room, especially near light sources, to aid in diffusing the harshness of fluorescent lighting.
Step 8. Experiment with Colored Bulbs:
Different colors can evoke varied moods and atmospheres, making colored bulbs a fantastic tool to make your fluorescent lights look better. For instance, a soft pink or warm orange bulb imbues your space with a cozy, relaxing vibe, while a cooler blue or green hue creates a calming, serene environment.
Do remember, though, that colored bulbs should be used sparingly and in conjunction with other light sources to prevent the color from becoming overwhelming.
Step 9. Layer Your Lighting:
Layering your lighting means having different sources of light in your room at various heights and directions. This approach can add depth and dimension to your space, making it appear more dynamic and visually interesting.
For instance, you can have an overhead fluorescent light for general illumination, a table lamp for task lighting, and a floor lamp or wall sconces for accent lighting. By layering your lighting, you can control the mood and ambiance of your room, making your fluorescent lights look more appealing.
Step 10. Regularly Clean Your Lights:
Last but not least, keep your fluorescent lights clean. Over time, dust and grime can accumulate on your light fixtures and bulbs, dimming their brightness and altering the quality of light they emit.
Regularly cleaning your lights can help maintain their performance, ensuring they provide the best possible illumination. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe your bulbs and fixtures, and remember to turn off the lights and let them cool before cleaning. This simple maintenance step can significantly affect how your fluorescent lights look and function.
By following these ten comprehensive and practical steps, you can effectively improve the appearance and feel of your fluorescent lights.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Change the Bulbs: Changing out your fluorescent lights with LED bulbs can be a great way to make them look more modern and reduce eye strain.
- Add Warm Colors: Adding a few warmer tones, such as yellows, oranges, and reds, can help brighten up the room and make it feel more inviting.
- Utilize Task Lighting: Task lighting, such as floor or desk lamps, can help create a softer and more inviting atmosphere.
- Don’t Forget About the Walls: Adding a few wall accents, such as mirrors or artwork, can help break up the monotony of fluorescent lighting and make the space look more welcoming.
- Incorporate Natural Light: Natural light can do wonders for any space, so try to open up the windows during the day or install a skylight to let in some natural sunlight.
These tips and tricks can help make fluorescent lighting look more inviting and modern. Make sure to follow these guidelines when deciding which lighting would be best for your space.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Harsh Fluorescent Bulbs: Harsh, bright fluorescent lighting can be very uncomfortable and uninviting. Try to use softer bulbs or LED lights instead.
- Remember the Fixtures: Though changing old light fixtures might seem daunting, it can help make your space look more modern and inviting.
- Don’t Over-light: Too much light can make a space feel uncomfortable and sterile, so try to use task lighting or accent colors to create the perfect balance.
- Avoid Dimmers: Dimming fluorescent lights too low can cause them to flicker or burn out more quickly. Instead, opt for softer bulbs that don’t require dimming in order to get the desired effect.
- Remember the Ceiling: The ceiling is often an overlooked piece when it comes to fluorescent lighting, but adding a few decorative touches can help make the space feel more inviting.
By considering these tips and tricks and avoiding these potential pitfalls, you can ensure that your fluorescent lights look modern and inviting.
Conclusion
To conclude, fluorescent lights may not be the most aesthetically pleasing out there, but with a few simple tricks and strategies, they can be transformed into a vivid and inviting light source. Start by replacing your existing bright white tubes with softer ones. You could also paint the fixtures or install warmer filters to soften the light emitted from them.
Finally, make sure all surfaces in the room are clean and dust-free so that any new lamps you bring in will be given the special treatment they deserve. Ultimately, it takes effort and creativity to turn those harsh lights into something more attractive—but once completed, you’ll find yourself or your guests enjoying their vibrant glow without any additional strain on your eyes.
Hopefully, the article on how to make fluorescent lights look better has provided you with some valuable insight on the best ways to tackle this task. With time and patience, you’ll soon find yourself living in a much brighter and more inviting space that also looks great!
