The right lighting transforms a home—
creating ambiance, functionality, and harmony in every room.

 

By combining different types of fixtures, you can enhance your interior design and adapt the lighting to suit both needs and function. Here are the best tips for creating beautiful and well-balanced lighting in your home!

What to Consider?

 

When planning lighting at home, it’s smart to start with how each room is used. Begin by considering the room’s functions, then choose fixtures that suit each area and add extra light sources to set the right mood. For example, a reading nook and a sofa area require different types of lighting.

To achieve balanced lighting, both directional and indirect light should be used. Too much directional light can create harsh contrasts and shadows, while only diffuse light can make a room feel flat and lifeless. A useful trick is to use narrow-beam lighting to highlight details and wide-beam lighting for even and comfortable illumination. Also, don’t be afraid to leave some areas darker—this creates contrast, making the illuminated spaces stand out more, resulting in a more dynamic and natural feel.

In open floor plans, lighting can be used to create different zones. By using pendant lights over the dining table, floor lamps near the sofa, and adjustable track lights, you can define different areas and create "rooms within the room."

Natural light should also be considered—daylight combined with artificial lighting contributes to a softer light flow throughout the day. A well-planned lighting design makes the home both functional and inviting.

Tips for Optimizing Your Home Lighting:

Color Temperature: In homes, light sources with a color temperature of 2700K are commonly used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. In bathrooms, a slightly higher temperature of 3000K is recommended for clearer, more natural light.

Dimmers: Installing dimmers on most light sources allows you to adjust brightness and set different moods depending on the time of day and activity.

Kitchen

To create a functional and comfortable kitchen, it’s important to combine different types of fixtures. LED strips under upper cabinets provide even and pleasant task lighting, while recessed ceiling lights offer general illumination. Adjustable track lights can highlight specific areas and add variety to the lighting scheme.

A pendant light above the dining table defines the eating area and provides a soft, inviting glow. For the best effect, it should hang about 50–60 cm (20–24 inches) above the table—high enough to provide good light without causing glare. Small light points, such as lamps in window niches, can add a subtle lighting effect that enhances the overall atmosphere of the room.

Kitchen with island

If there are no upper cabinets, recessed downlights above the workspace provide even and functional lighting. These should be installed about 30 cm (12 inches) from the wall. For a combination of practicality and creative lighting, wall-mounted fixtures with downward light or pendant lights are excellent choices.

Above a kitchen island, pendants serve both a functional and decorative purpose. If you prefer downlights, place them slightly to the side and direct the light toward the workspace. This reduces the risk of glare from reflective surfaces (such as glossy countertops) and prevents unwanted shadows from objects like a range hood.

Living room

By combining different fixtures and beam angles, you can create balanced and flexible lighting that adapts to both function and mood. Pendant lights over the dining area provide focused and atmospheric lighting, defining the space and creating intimacy.

Track lighting is a versatile solution that allows for easy adjustments over time. It can be used to highlight details or provide general illumination, such as in a bookshelf. Track lights are typically mounted 60–80 cm (24–32 inches) from the wall, while recessed fixtures should be placed about 30–40 cm (12–16 inches) from the wall.

In seating areas, additional light sources create a soft and comfortable feel, while floor and table lamps add depth by providing light at different levels. Directional wall lighting enhances depth, vertical height, and the overall spatial experience of the room.

Bedroom

To create a calm and relaxing atmosphere in the bedroom, lighting should be both ambient and functional. Directional lighting near the bed is ideal for reading, while ceiling-mounted fixtures provide general lighting for tasks like cleaning. LED strips inside wardrobes add a luxurious touch while also making it easier to pick out clothes.

Additional light sources, such as a table lamp on the windowsill or a floor lamp in the corner, contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Home office

A well-planned lighting setup in a home office makes it easier to stay focused and comfortable. A flexible desk lamp that illuminates the entire workspace provides good task lighting. Positioning it at an angle prevents glare and shadows—for example, if you’re right-handed, the light should come from the left, and vice versa, to avoid casting shadows when writing.

Additional lighting, such as a floor lamp or adjustable ceiling lights, helps create balanced illumination. However, the workspace should always be the brightest area in the room to keep focus on the task at hand. Illuminating bookshelves or vertical surfaces adds a dynamic and structured feel to the room.

Bathroom

Recessed ceiling lights provide even and well-balanced general lighting, while mirror lighting ensures functional illumination. To avoid harsh shadows, consider using dimmable mirror lights. Avoid placing lighting directly above the mirror, as this can cast unflattering shadows on the face. Similarly, strong overhead lighting above the shower can create harsh contrasts and shadows.

In showers or near bathtubs, LED strips along the ceiling or walls create a soft and inviting ambiance. However, avoid placing direct lighting above the bathtub, as it can be uncomfortable when looking up.

For bathrooms with a laundry area, task lighting above the workspace is essential for practical tasks like sorting and folding laundry.