It’s great that your electrician is confident in their abilities to design lighting, but there are some potential pitfalls to be aware of when it comes to this. First and foremost, it’s essential to consider whether your electrician has the expertise and training in lighting design.
The images below, taken from the internet, demonstrate what you may have to live with when no thought is given to lighting. Yes, it lights the space! But this isn’t an office.


While electricians are skilled in wiring and installing lighting fixtures, designing the layout and functionality of the lighting requires a different set of skills and knowledge. This includes understanding the principles of lighting design, such as colour temperature, brightness levels, and the overall aesthetic impact of the lighting.
Another potential pitfall is an electrician’s lack of creativity and vision when designing lighting.
Lighting design is about placing fixtures in a space and creating a certain ambience and atmosphere. A trained lighting designer can think outside the box and create unique and effective lighting solutions that enhance a space’s overall design.
Additionally, a qualified lighting designer will be knowledgeable about energy efficiency and sustainability, ensuring that the lighting design looks good, operates cost-effectively, and is environmentally friendly.
The images below demonstrate what effects can be created for a space when a qualified, experienced Lighting Designer undertakes a design. Clean lines with hidden lighting—what a difference.
Without this expertise, you may end up with an inefficient and costly lighting design. Finally, if the electrician is not well-versed in lighting design, there is the risk of potential code violations and safety issues. Lighting design must comply with building codes, safety regulations, and best practices to ensure the lighting is installed and operates safely.
In conclusion, while your electrician may be skilled in many aspects of electrical work, it’s essential to carefully consider whether they have specific training and expertise in lighting design. Consulting with a professional lighting designer may be beneficial to ensure that the lighting in your space is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Thank you for considering these potential pitfalls. I hope you can find the best solution for your lighting design needs.
You will only have one opportunity to light your space, so it is worth getting it right from the start. You don’t want to spend money and be disappointed with the result.
Please speak to a lighting designer. Never leave it to chance.