Module 5: Lighting

In this module, you’ll explore the principles of interior lighting design and gain the skills to use both natural and artificial light to enhance the functionality, mood, and aesthetic appeal of interior spaces. You will learn how to assess lighting needs for different rooms, consider the impact of architectural elements, and create lighting plans that complement furniture layouts, colour schemes, and interior finishes.

The module covers how light interacts with colour, textures, materials, and fabrics, helping you understand how to manipulate illumination to highlight key features, create ambiance, and enhance the perception of space. You’ll explore different types of lighting used in interior design, including ambient, task, accent, and decorative lighting, and learn to select and specify fixtures that align with both design intent and client requirements.

Throughout the module, you’ll engage in practical exercises, lighting simulations, and scenario-based challenges that mirror real-world projects. You’ll have opportunities to develop lighting plans for residential and commercial interiors, evaluate existing lighting setups, and propose improvements to enhance both style and functionality. Quizzes and tasks will reinforce your theoretical knowledge while allowing you to apply your skills in practical contexts.

By the end of this module, you will be able to confidently design and specify lighting schemes that complement your interiors, enhance architectural features, and create the desired atmosphere for each space. This module is part of the Diploma of Interior Design (MSF50222) and is designed to equip you with both the creative insight and technical knowledge needed to implement professional-standard lighting solutions in your interior projects.

Additionally, this module includes guidance on using digital tools and software to visualise lighting effects, allowing you to experiment with light placement, intensity, and colour to create compelling and client-ready design presentations.

Why This Module Matters

Lighting is fundamental to creating mood, atmosphere, and functionality. In Module 5, you’ll:

• Learn how colour temperature and light properties affect interior design.
• Understand ambient, task, and accent lighting and how to apply them in rooms.
• Explore natural light in interior design and how orientation impacts illumination.
• Communicate lighting plans effectively to builders, electricians, and suppliers.
• Incorporate lighting into your ongoing renovation project from Module 4.

What You’ll Learn

• Lighting Principles
  Understand types of lighting in interior design, including ambient, task, and accent lighting.
• Colour & Light Interaction
  Learn how light affects colour selection, finishes, and fabrics.
• Natural & Artificial Light
  Analyse natural light in interiors and plan effective artificial lighting strategies.
• Electrical & Lighting Plans
  Communicate lighting design clearly to builders, electricians, and contractors.

What You’ll Do

• Plan Lighting Layouts
  Design room-specific lighting and electrical arrangements for residential spaces.
• Produce Reflected Ceiling Plans
  Include light fixtures, switches, dimmers, power outlets, and hardwired equipment.
• Enhance Function & Aesthetics
  Use lighting to improve both usability and visual appeal in every room.
• Integrate Lighting Into Projects
  Apply knowledge from previous modules to plan lighting for a 1950s home redesign.

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 5, you will:

• Be confident in designing and specifying interior lighting for all rooms.
• Understand how colour temperature affects mood and perception in interiors.
• Apply principles of natural and artificial lighting to enhance interior spaces.
• Create accurate reflected ceiling plans for communication with electricians and builders.
• Integrate lighting seamlessly into renovation and interior design projects.

Guidance Every Step Of The Way

Our expert tutors will guide you step by step — from planning and sketching layouts to adding fixtures, switches, and dimmers, and creating reflected ceiling plans by hand or with software. With their guidance, you’ll confidently design, read, and present professional lighting plans for any interior project.