With the exception of kitchens, interior lighting is too often an afterthought in our homes. Besides ambient lighting, such as recessed overhead fixtures, we also need low-level accent lighting to create a mood, navigate through areas we’re not using to get to a room we are using, and so forth. And of course, we need plenty of task lighting for food prep, grooming, reading in bed, indulging in hobbies, and working in our home offices. Besides being functional, we also want our lighting to add to the beauty of our homes through our choice of lamps, fixtures and placement. To that end, let’s explore some of the smart, functional and beautiful ways we can use interior lighting throughout our homes …

Ambient Lighting

This is the type of light you’re most likely to flip a switch for as you enter a room. It usually comes from overhead and can include chandeliers, pendants, sconces and architectural lighting such as cove, soffit or recessed lights.

Task Lighting

Task lighting is designed to illuminate a specific function. It’s important to choose task lighting based on what you do that requires a focused light, because everybody’s task lighting needs are different. Do you need more light for reading in bed? For doing paperwork in your home office? For food preparation? Make a list of the places you’re likely to need good task lighting before you buy.

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting is used to highlight a particular area, a piece of art or a special feature in a room, or to set a mood or provide atmosphere indoors and out. It’s a powerful and creative design-enhancing tool too often overlooked.