Floors as mirrors
A glossy floor reflects fixtures, windows and ceilings. Placement and brightness matter.
Glare
Bare bulbs and strong skylights can create glare. Diffused fixtures help.
Brightening a space
Light floors reflect light upward. Dark floors absorb it and look dramatic.
Test it
Samples under your lighting show the real effect.
Reflected light
A polished floor bounces light back into the room, which can reduce the number of fixtures needed in some spaces. It also reflects bright points like skylights and downlights.
Controlling glare
Positioning fixtures, choosing a satin finish and using diffusers help reduce harsh reflections. Large windows facing low sun may need shades.
Mock-up first
A test panel in the real space shows how lighting and floor will work together before you commit to the full area.
Quick answers
Can polishing cut lighting costs?
It can reduce the need for some lighting, but design matters.
Will glare be a problem?
It can. Plan fixtures with the floor in mind.
