Design versus functionality: how we made both work
When we first saw our cove lighting in our render, we were impressed by the design as it looked different from the traditional cove lighting designs.
However, during renovation we noticed that our ceiling would be much lower and we were against that because we wouldn’t want any accidents in our house.
Our ID offered the solution of a concave design for our fans to sit in which gave us slightly more ceiling space. The curves were my husband’s idea tho, as the initial plan was to make it square-ish/right angled. We are thankful this came through, and the wind flow isn’t compromised too much (altho it would’ve been better for sure if we didn’t need to do this). That said, we love that the curves turned out well!
Managing lighting and fans in a home with low ceilings can be tricky, especially when design and functionality need to coexist. From my experience, open communication with your interior designer is key. In our case, opting for a concave ceiling helped us keep more headroom, which was crucial for safety and comfort. The curved fan design, suggested by my husband, not only enhances the aesthetic with smooth lines but also maintains sufficient airflow, proving that slight adjustments can have significant benefits. If you’re considering similar renovations, pay attention to the dimensions of fans – a 36-inch fan often works well in smaller or lower ceiling spaces. Additionally, incorporating hidden or cove lighting rather than traditional fixtures can create a spacious feel while highlighting architectural curves. Simple, curved cove ceilings are popular choices in the Philippines and offer a modern yet understated look that complements most living rooms. Don’t overlook the small details like choosing the right color and finish for your ceiling to ensure the lighting reflects well and doesn’t make the space feel cramped. Also, explore cost-effective materials that fit your budget but still deliver style and durability. This approach helped us avoid making compromises on safety or design quality during our renovation. Ultimately, understanding your specific home's space constraints and working creatively with your designer leads to satisfying results.
We did this for our corner fan too! But without the curves. With this we got the best of both worlds, fan + false ceiling hahaa