An Illuminating Investment

Many custom integrators, including Kristin Reinitz, general manager and co-owner of Admit One Home Systems, are doing it all—lighting design included. Not only does she consider layout, but she also thinks through layers of lighting.

“As integrators, we are already in charge of selling and programming the lighting control, so why not sell quality fixtures we know work well for control and wellness, plus render the correct colors and temperatures?” Reinitz says. “Homeowners know they want quality lighting, but what does that mean? What difference does it make? Once I show them good lighting, they cannot unsee it.”

MH: Why does thoughtful lighting design matter while planning interior spaces?

KR: For thousands of years, humans lived and slept with the sun. Now, we live inside boxes where we put a few light cans in the ceiling and call it good. There are studies out there about how light, and wellness go hand in hand—from helping us with wayfinding and keeping us safe to helping us focus in the afternoon and relaxing at night. There are studies that show how well controlled lighting can help us sleep soundly and wake more rested, affecting our wellness. Lighting can even help us stay in our homes longer for those considering aging in place.

What makes custom lighting design worth the investment?

Homeowners make major investments in their homes—think of all the materials and finishes, fixtures, cabinetry, and more they’ve hand selected. That can all fall flat if not lit properly­—colors might render poorly, a textured wall might look smooth, or cabinetry details might be lost. Lighting design should be considered early in budget considerations so these personal aspects to someone’s home stand out.