Why Do 80% of Hotels Choose the Wrong Lighting? Understanding the Right Fixtures for Each Space
Lighting is one of the most critical investments in hotel design—yet, statistics show that nearly 80% of hotels select the wrong fixtures for their spaces. The reason is simple: there’s a widespread misconception that “brighter is better,” and that all spaces can use the same lights. In reality, a five-star experience relies on nuanced lighting tailored to every area, from guest rooms to corridors and restaurants. This article explains why the one-size-fits-all approach fails and offers a clear guide for choosing the right fixtures for each space, using modern solutions like inbright as examples.
Pain Point: Mixing Up Fixtures Across Hotel Spaces
The most common lighting mistake in hotels is mixing fixtures designed for very different needs.
- Guest rooms end up with harsh, office-like lights.
- Corridors are lit as if they were restaurants, leading to wasted energy and uncomfortable shadows.
- Dining areas get the same fixtures as lobbies, ruining ambiance and food presentation.
- Public spaces lack the visual cues and warmth that define true hospitality.
This “mix-and-match” approach is usually the result of cost-saving shortcuts, lack of education, or simple misunderstanding of what each area needs.
Education Point: More Light Isn’t Always Better
Hotel clients often equate higher wattage and more lumens with better quality. In fact, over-lighting a space not only wastes energy, but also destroys the desired mood, making guests feel uncomfortable or restless. The goal is not maximum brightness, but optimal lighting that enhances the experience of each specific area.
Understanding the Four Key Lighting Parameters
Beam Angle
The beam angle determines how focused or wide the light spreads.With inbright downlights, precise beam angles can be selected for each fixture, ensuring lighting is targeted and efficient.
Narrow beams (10–24°) are ideal for accent lighting, art, or focused spots in restaurants and lobbies.
Medium beams (24–40°) work well for most general lighting, such as corridors and transition spaces.
Wide beams (40°+) are better for ambient lighting in larger, open public spaces.
Wattage / Power
Power (measured in watts) affects not only energy consumption but also heat and intensity.Over-specifying wattage leads to harsh lighting, while under-specifying creates dark, unsafe areas.
Guest rooms need soft, adjustable lighting, usually in the 6–12W range for downlights.
Corridors require lower wattage (4–8W), avoiding glare and excessive brightness.
Restaurants and public spaces benefit from a mix—general lighting at 10–20W, accent at lower wattage for mood.
Color Rendering Index (CRI)
CRI measures how accurately a light source displays colors. The higher the CRI (out of 100), the better.Inbright offers fixtures with high CRI, supporting the quality image hotels need.
Restaurants and lobbies need high CRI (≥90) to make food, artwork, and decor look vibrant and true-to-life.
Guest rooms also benefit from high CRI for comfort and visual appeal.
Anti-Glare / Glare Control
Strong, uncontrolled glare makes even a well-designed space feel cheap.Inbright’s anti-glare products reduce eye strain and enhance the luxury atmosphere.
Deep-recessed downlights, anti-glare lenses, and proper shielding are essential for guest comfort.
Corridors and guest rooms should always use low-glare fixtures.
Right Light for the Right Space: Practical Guide
Guest Rooms: Use adjustable, dimmable fixtures with warm color temperatures (2700–3000K), medium beam angle, high CRI, and strong anti-glare control. Avoid the use of wide-beam, high-wattage fixtures designed for public spaces.
Corridors: Prioritize low-wattage, narrow-to-medium beam downlights. Focus on safety and wayfinding without overwhelming brightness.
Restaurants: Mix ambient and accent lighting. Use high-CRI, adjustable fixtures with tight glare control. Avoid broad, office-like panels or “one size fits all” spots.
Public Areas (Lobbies, Lounges): Combine wide-beam ambient fixtures with strategic accents. Select for visual interest, mood, and flexibility throughout the day.
Value Output: How to Choose and Specify Fixtures Correctly
Consult with Lighting Experts: Don’t make decisions solely on price or familiarity. Work with professionals or trusted brands like inbright, who can analyze each space and recommend optimal products.
Test and Mock-Up: Whenever possible, set up sample installations to see the effects of beam angle, wattage, CRI, and glare control in real conditions.
Educate Stakeholders: Train staff and decision-makers to focus on quality over simple brightness metrics. Understanding these four parameters will prevent 80% of common mistakes.
Conclusion: A Five-Star Experience Begins with the Right Fixture
The next time you evaluate lighting for your hotel, remember: a single fixture can’t do it all. Selecting the right beam angle, wattage, CRI, and glare protection—using quality products like inbright—is the key to a sophisticated, comfortable, and energy-efficient environment. Hotels that get this right stand out for their atmosphere, guest satisfaction, and overall reputation.
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