There are several factors to consider when selecting the right lighting for an environment – the activities taking place, the amount of available natural light, and the size of the room.

Whether you are arranging a new corner for yourself or simply upgrading your room, a new light fixture, such as one with LED lights, can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll explore tips for selecting the perfect lighting for your home. 

What Are the Different Layers of Light?

There are three light layers: accent, ambient, and task. Your choice should depend on the room type and size. However, the general rule of thumb is that you require at least two layers to light a room properly. 

• Ambient Lighting: Also known as general lighting, this layer provides a comfortable level of light, and its sources are typically overhead lighting, like ceiling light fixtures. Some ambient light sources to consider for your lighting plan include chandeliers, pendants, wall sconces, and vanity lighting.
• Task Lighting: These light sources provide intense and direct light needed for detailed work such as cooking and reading. Some typical task light sources include work lamps, desk lamps, under-cabinet lighting, and island pendants.
• Accent Lighting: This type of lighting allows you to draw focus to interesting features in your décor, such as paintings. It primarily offers overhead lighting, and some sources to consider for your lighting plan include wall sconces and track lighting.

Choosing a Fixture Style

When selecting a fixture, begin by picking out a favorite element in the room and a light to complement it. For instance, if your living room has a modern sofa, lighting with clean lines will improve the appearance of your space. Now that you know about light layering and determining fixture light, let’s discuss the best lighting types for each room.

Living Room

This is the place where you wind down with a delightful book after a long day, hang out with your friends, watch movies, and even play games. For its versatility, it deserves a variety of lighting.

If some areas of your living room have no light or the available light casts shadows, you should invest in more accent and ambient lighting. For ambient lighting, consider flush mount lights and recessed lighting, and for accent lighting, go for track lighting.

Bedroom 

Bedroom lighting should evoke calm and serenity. Warm white LEDs create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, while dimmable lights allow you to adjust the brightness to suit your mood. You can also add bedside table lamps for convenient reading light. Lastly, wall sconces or floor lamps with frosted shades can diffuse light softly across the room, reducing harsh shadows. 

Kitchen

For the kitchen, you will need multiple light layers. Recessed lighting is perfect ambient lighting for kitchens of all sizes. If your loved ones like to read on the kitchen island as you prepare their favorite dishes, consider hanging an island pendant or kitchen track lighting over the island to provide both accent and task lighting.

Dining Room

In addition to being the designated space for meals, the dining room can also be the place where you spend game nights. Therefore, choosing the right lighting, such as chandeliers remain a classic option and an excellent ambient light source. For extra accent and ambient lighting, you might use wall sconces or place table lamps.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect lighting for different environments involves striking a balance between aesthetics and functionality. By layering ambient and accent lighting and choosing fixtures that bring out the best in your space, you can instantly transform any room into a cozy haven. If you were not sure about your home’s lighting needs, we hope this article sheds some light.