Choosing home lighting has gotten complicated with all the LED options, color temperatures, and fixture styles flying around. As someone who’s helped Northwest homeowners light their spaces for years, I learned everything there is to know about what actually makes homes look good and function well. Today, I’ll share it all with you.
Understanding Different Types of Lighting
Probably should have led with this section, honestly — understanding the three main lighting types makes everything else click. Each serves a different purpose for balanced lighting.
- Ambient Lighting: General illumination that fills the room and lets you move around safely. Ceiling fixtures, chandeliers, and recessed lighting.
- Task Lighting: Focused light for specific activities like reading, cooking, or working. Desk lamps, under-cabinet kitchen lights, bathroom vanity lights.
- Accent Lighting: Adds drama or highlights design elements. Spotlights on artwork, wall sconces, garden lights.
Choosing Lighting for Different Rooms
Living Room
That’s what makes living room lighting endearing to us electricians — multiple activities happen here, so layered lighting works best. Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting.
- Ambient: Recessed lights or a central chandelier provide the main light source
- Task: Floor lamps next to sofas and chairs for reading
- Accent: Wall sconces or table lamps to highlight decorative pieces
Kitchen
Kitchens need bright, shadow-free lighting for meal prep and cooking. Task lighting is essential here.
- Ambient: Overhead fluorescent or LED fixtures light up the whole space
- Task: Under-cabinet lights illuminate countertops. Pendant lights over islands add extra brightness
- Accent: Can showcase architectural features or open shelving
Bedroom
Bedrooms require relaxing atmosphere, making ambient and soft accent lighting ideal. But task lighting matters too.
- Ambient: Ceiling fan with integrated light or simple ceiling fixture
- Task: Bedside lamps or wall-mounted reading lights
- Accent: LED strip lighting under the bed or above cabinetry for ambiance
Bathroom
Bathrooms need bright, even lighting for safety and grooming. Mix ambient and task lighting.
- Ambient: Ceiling lights or integrated vent-light fixtures
- Task: Vertical fixtures or sconces on either side of the mirror for even illumination without shadows
Home Office
If you work from home, lighting affects productivity and eye strain. Layer your lighting carefully.
- Ambient: Overhead lighting that doesn’t create glare on screens
- Task: Desk lamps with adjustable brightness
- Natural light: Position your desk to take advantage of windows without screen glare
Choosing the Right Bulbs
The type of bulb dramatically affects light quality and mood.
- LED Bulbs: Energy-efficient and available in various color temperatures. Suitable for all lighting types. Now the standard choice.
- Incandescent Bulbs: Provide warm light and good ambiance but are less energy-efficient and being phased out.
- Halogen Bulbs: Bright, white light similar to natural daylight. More efficient than incandescent but generate more heat.
- Fluorescent Bulbs: Offer diffused light with good energy efficiency. Sometimes used in kitchens and bathrooms.
Consider Color Temperature
Color temperature is measured in Kelvins (K) and affects the hue and mood of light.
- Soft White (2700K – 3000K): Creates warm, cozy feel. Ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.
- Bright White/Cool White (3500K – 4100K): Creates more energetic feel. Good for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Daylight (5000K – 6500K): Mimics natural daylight. Suitable for reading, working, and detailed tasks.
Smart Lighting Options
Smart lighting allows control via smartphone apps or voice commands. Options include smart bulbs, smart switches, and integrated smart lighting systems.
- Smart Bulbs: Replace regular bulbs and can change color, brightness, and timing
- Smart Switches: Add control to existing lights without changing bulbs
- Integrated Systems: Systems like Philips Hue or LIFX offer comprehensive solutions
Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient lighting reduces electricity bills and benefits the environment. LED bulbs are the best option — they last longer and consume less energy. When shopping, look for Energy Star-rated fixtures and bulbs.
Lighting Controls
Dimmers, timers, and motion sensors offer more control and increase efficiency.
- Dimmers: Adjust brightness, enhancing ambiance and saving energy
- Timers: Automatically turn lights on and off according to schedule
- Motion Sensors: Detect movement and automatically control lights. Ideal for outdoor lighting or hallways
Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting matters for security and creating welcoming appearance.
- Path Lights: Illuminate walkways and enhance landscape features
- Security Lights: Motion-sensor lights for safety around entry points
- Decorative Lights: String lights or lanterns create cozy outdoor ambiance
Working with Natural Light
In the Pacific Northwest, maximizing natural light matters given our darker months. Position fixtures to complement windows rather than compete with them. Use lighter wall colors to reflect available light. Consider skylights or sun tubes for rooms with limited window access.
Thoughtful lighting enhances functionality and adds aesthetic value to your living space. Considering bulb type, color temperature, and smart options creates a comfortable and appealing home environment.
