Kate Schlientz
|
5 min. read

Lighting for Different Rooms: A Designer's Guide

Lighting is a key element of interior design. It can create a mood, highlight architectural features, and even make a room feel bigger or smaller. When choosing lighting for your home, it's important to consider the specific needs of each room.

Here are some tips for lighting different rooms in your home:


Living Room
The living room is a versatile space that can be used for a variety of activities, from relaxing with family and friends to entertaining guests. As a result, it's important to have a layered lighting scheme that can be adjusted to suit different needs. A good starting point is to install an overhead light fixture, such as a chandelier or pendant light. This will provide general illumination for the room. You can then add additional layers of light with task lighting, such as floor lamps and table lamps, and accent lighting, such as wall sconces and recessed lights. Task lighting is important for activities like reading, sewing, and working on a computer. Accent lighting can be used to highlight architectural features, artwork, or other objects in the room.

Dining Room
The dining room is a place where people gather to eat and socialize. It's important to have lighting that is both functional and inviting. A good overhead light fixture is essential in the dining room. It should be centered over the dining table and provide enough light so that people can see their food and each other clearly. You may also want to add accent lighting to highlight the dining table or other features of the room, such as a chandelier or wall art.

Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in the house, so it's important to have good lighting for both tasks and ambiance. Overhead task lighting is essential in the kitchen. It should be centered over the work area and provide enough light so that you can see what you're doing while cooking and preparing food. You may also want to add under-cabinet lighting to illuminate countertops and lower cabinets. Accent lighting can be used to highlight features such as a kitchen island or backsplash.

Bedroom
The bedroom is a place to relax and unwind after a long day. As a result, the lighting in the bedroom should be soft and inviting. Overhead lighting is not necessary in the bedroom. Instead, use table lamps and floor lamps to provide soft, ambient light. You may also want to add a nightstand lamp so that you can read or work in bed without disturbing your partner.

Bathroom
The bathroom is a functional space where you need to be able to see clearly. However, it's also important to have lighting that is flattering and relaxing. Overhead task lighting is essential in the bathroom. It should be centered over the vanity mirror and provide enough light so that you can see your face and hair clearly. You may also want to add accent lighting to highlight features such as a bathtub or shower.

Tips for Choosing Lighting Fixtures
When choosing lighting fixtures, it's important to consider the following factors:

1. Style:  The light fixtures that you choose should complement the overall style of your home.

2. Size:
  Make sure to choose light fixtures that are the right size for the room. A fixture that is too small will look out of place, while a fixture that is too large will be overwhelming.

3. Function:  Consider the function of the room when choosing lighting fixtures. For example, you'll need different types of lighting for a kitchen than you would for a bedroom.

4. Budget:  Lighting fixtures can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. Set a budget before you start shopping so that you don't overspend.


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