Lighting is a core piece of any home’s atmosphere. It sets the mood, highlights architectural features, and makes spaces more functional. So if you’re curious about what types of lighting to use in your renovation project, here are a few options and the ways to make the most of them.
If you’re new to DIY lighting projects, check out some home lighting basics before starting.
1. Recessed Lighting
You can find recessed fixtures in various trim sizes and shapes perfect for any room. Some styles are more subtle for living and dining rooms, while others serve as task lights. Still, others can help you flood spaces like kitchens and laundry rooms with plenty of helpful light.
The caveat to using recessed lights is the careful planning and installation process. Because each fixture needs extensive wiring, it takes the right electrician to plan the best layout.
2. Bigger Windows
Natural light feels underappreciated these days. It can boost your mood and energy, and by harnessing it in the right ways, you can use less energy during the daylight hours.
One way to invite more natural light into your home is by installing larger windows. This isn’t a viable option for every space, but it works well for living rooms, kitchens, and master bedrooms. South-facing windows will give you more sunshine, and north-facing ones offer softer ambient light. East and west-facing windows can glare depending on the time of day, so you’ll want to add window coverings to manage light levels.
If you want to increase natural light in a room limited to small window openings, hang a few mirrors on the walls to help bounce the light around.
3. Under Cabinet Lighting
Undercabinet lighting illuminates your countertops to make food preparation a little easier, and there are a few options you can consider for your kitchen:
- LED tape lights: LED tape lights are energy-efficient, easy to install, and give you continuous light along the counter’s length.
- Puck lights: Puck lights are best for creating focused pools of light, and they come in handy for specific cooking zones of decorative elements.
- Linear LED lights: Linear LEDs give you even light along your cabinets if you prefer a more consistent and aesthetically pleasing solution.
For best results, install lighting on upper and lower cabinets for full coverage, and use dimmer switches to adjust the brightness as you need. You’ll also want to evaluate different color temperature options to match your kitchen’s overall lighting scheme.
4. Accent Lighting
Beyond evenly lighting a whole room, accent lights draw attention to specific areas or architectural details. You can use it to highlight artwork, wall accents, bookshelves, staircases, or fireplaces.
Recessed fixtures are a popular choice for accent lighting, though adjustable track heads and directional LED pendants may be better for some situations. Therefore, consider pointing directional fixtures at a light-colored wall or ceiling for a diffuse glow.
5. Smart Lighting Systems
Smart lighting is revolutionizing how homeowners control their home’s ambiance. And with the right equipment, you can manage your lighting setup from your smartphone and schedule different presets for different days. Many systems integrate with other smart home devices for automated routines beyond your lighting system.
If you’re just starting out with smart lighting, choose a system that’s compatible with your existing fixtures, devices, and preferred virtual assistant. So start with high-traffic areas like your living room or kitchen where you’ll get the most benefit.
So, Is Ambient Lighting Worth the Investment?
Installing new lighting is one of the most impactful ways to transform your home. The right lighting can make rooms feel bright, airy, cozy, and warm. Plus, it lets you highlight architectural details and create drama throughout your home.
While any new lighting costs money upfront, the increase in home value can make it a smart investment. Properly illuminating spaces like the kitchen and living room make your home more enticing to potential buyers down the road.
Beyond aesthetics, lighting allows safer movement around the home and visibility for daily activities, since rooms feel more usable with sufficient lighting. Also, it can help create a relaxing, peaceful ambiance for unwinding after a long day.
Evaluate each room and how improved lighting could enhance its look and purpose. Combining ambient, task, and accent lighting creates the ideal illuminated environment, breathing new life into old rooms.
FAQs About Home Lighting
What are the most popular types of lighting for homes?
The most common home lighting types include recessed lights, track lights, pendant lights, chandeliers, table and floor lamps, vanity lighting, and under-cabinet lighting. Most homes have a combination of lighting types for aesthetics and function.
How can lighting make a house more eco-friendly?
Using LED bulbs, installing lights with timers and sensors, and maximizing natural light from windows can make lighting more eco-friendly. Smart technology allows greater control over home lighting to reduce energy consumption.
What factors impact lighting upgrade costs?
The main factors affecting lighting upgrade costs include fixture and bulb types, number of lights, any wiring updates needed, placement accessibility, and whether the installation is DIY or professional. Complex installations typically cost more for a professional to install.
When should you hire a professional electrician for lighting?
Lighting projects requiring new wiring, system integration, installing recessed lights, or high voltage work need an electrician. Professionals safely and correctly handle complex lighting jobs.
How can lighting affect your sleep?
Blue light exposure from fixtures and electronics suppresses melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep. Dim, warm bedroom lighting is ideal. Smart bulbs with night modes help promote healthy sleep.
