Lux vs Lumens: What’s the Difference?
Simply put, lumens measure the total light a source emits, while lux measures how much of that light reaches a surface. Lumens indicate how bright a lamp is, whereas lux shows how well that brightness lights your space. Knowing the difference helps you achieve comfortable, effective illumination without overlighting.
How Many Lumens Do I Need for My Space?
According to our Lighting Designer, Teagan, the following are general lighting guidelines for residential spaces:
Living areas: ~150 lumens for soft, ambient lighting
Kitchens and workspaces: ~200 lumens for brighter, task-focused lighting
Bathrooms: ~150 lux
Toilets: ~100 lux
These recommendations are indicative only and may vary based on client preferences, building type, and how the space is used. In living areas, for example, our curved linear lights such as the Curva are a popular choice for creating comfortable ambient lighting.
Why Do the Right Lux and Lumen Levels Matter?
Getting your lux and lumen levels right matters more than you might think. The right light can make a space feel comfortable, functional, safe, and inviting.
Comfort for Your Eyes: Too dim, and your eyes strain; too bright, and glare or harsh shadows appear. Proper lux keeps lighting easy on the eyes.
Better Task Performance: Cooking, reading, or working requires brighter light than lounging in the living room. The right lumens make sure you can see clearly and work efficiently.
Safety First: Dim hallways or staircases increase the risk of accidents. Correct lighting helps prevent trips and falls.
Set the Mood: Lighting shapes the feel of a room. Balanced levels create a welcoming, relaxing, or energizing atmosphere without it feeling cold or gloomy.
Energy Smarts: Too much light wastes power and can shorten bulb life. The right lumens provide just the brightness you need, without extra energy use.
Some fixtures even let you fine-tune brightness. For example, our Satellite pendant has switchable wattage, so you can easily adjust the light to match the space or mood.
How Do I Figure Out the Right Lumens for a Room?
To calculate lumens, multiply the area of your room in square meters by the recommended lux level for that type of space, for example, 200 lux for a kitchen or workspace. Then, spread the total lumens across your fixtures. Simple, right?
If math isn’t your thing, we offer a free lighting design service. Our team can calculate the perfect lumens and layout for your space, ensuring your lighting is functional, comfortable, and beautifully tailored to your room.
Final Thoughts
Getting the right lux and lumens isn’t just a technical detail – it shapes how your space feels, functions, and looks. Proper lighting enhances comfort, safety, and productivity while setting the perfect ambience. Whether you’re designing a new room, upgrading existing fixtures, or planning an event, understanding these basics, and using our free lighting design service, ensures your space is illuminated perfectly.