Lighting has always been more than just functional, it’s emotional, architectural, and deeply personal. As we moved through phase one of our home renovation, updating the lighting became a key part of restoring character and creating atmosphere. This post is a look behind the scenes at how we approached it, what we learned, and what’s still to come.

Design Details That Matter

Every fixture we chose was intentional, down to its location, style, colour, sizing, and wattage. In a home with such rich architectural history, lighting needs to do more than illuminate, it needs to complement the space.

We considered:

• Location : Where light was needed for function vs. where it could enhance mood or highlight features.
• Style : Fixtures that nod to the Victorian Gothic Revival era without feeling overly themed.
• Colour : Soft brass, aged bronze, and muted blacks to blend with our palette and finishes.
• Sizing : Scaled to suit ceiling heights and room proportions, no oversized pendants in snug corners.
• Wattage : Enough to warm a room, but never harsh. We leaned into dimmable options wherever possible.

Lighting is one of those details that quietly shapes how a space feels. It’s worth getting right.

The Power of Design Boards

One of the most helpful tools throughout this process was our design boards. These visual references helped us picture how each fixture would sit within the space, and they were invaluable for communicating with our electrician.

Having everything laid out, room by room, with notes on placement, finish, and function. This meant fewer surprises and smoother installations. It also helped us stay true to our vision, especially when juggling multiple decisions at once.

Refreshing the Ceiling: Replacing Spotlights with Recessed Elegance

As part of phase one, we chose to replace all existing ceiling spotlights with fresh new recessed versions. While the original fittings were functional, they lacked the refinement and cohesion we wanted for the space. The updated recessed lights offer a cleaner, more intentional look, subtle enough to let the architecture shine, yet powerful enough to provide balanced, ambient illumination.

We carefully selected fittings with the right beam angles and warm colour temperatures to complement our decorative lighting and overall palette. The result is a lighting scheme that feels modern in execution but respectful of the home’s character.

Phase One Focus (With More to Come)

For now, we’ve only replaced decorative lighting in the areas tackled during phase one.

The rest of the house will follow in future phases, so if you’re curious about what’s next, watch this space. We’ll be sharing updates as we go, including some exciting plans for the upstairs and hallway.

Always, Always Use a Licensed Electrician

It goes without saying, but I’ll say it anyway, we worked with a licensed electrician throughout. Older homes come with quirks, unexpected wiring, fragile plaster, and the occasional mystery switch. Having a professional on board ensured everything was safe, compliant, and beautifully executed.

Final Thoughts

Lighting is one of those quiet heroes in a renovation. It doesn’t shout, but it speaks volumes. And when chosen with care, it can transform a space from simply restored to truly reimagined.

If you’re planning your own updates, I’d recommend starting with mood boards, asking lots of questions, and trusting your instincts. And if you’re working with a home that has history, let the lighting honour it.

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