In 2018, US homes used 232 billion kilowatt-hours (kWH) on electricity for lighting.
The right lighting adds elegance, energy, and usefulness to all of our home spaces.
Recently, traditional table lamps and ceiling fans have given way to artistic minglings of warm lights coming from floors, ceilings, and bookshelves.
There are three basic types of lighting.
Ambient light provides a room with comprehensive illumination. Task lighting will kindle workspaces. And accent lights will highlight certain objects and accessories.
A great room will have a combination of all lighting types. What are some modern lighting ideas you have to check out? Let’s take a look.
1. Multiple Fixtures
If you want your space to be truly glowing and flexible, one overhead fixture may not be enough. You can consider adding pot lights, which are recessed into the ceiling so the light appears to be shining down from a hole.
These concentrate downward and give the effect of a spotlight or floodlight.
You can also add multiple light fixtures throughout the room. You should focus on basic, classic fixtures. Hanging them in a clean pattern, such as four squares in the ceiling, will make your room appear more ordered and welcoming.
2. Light Around The Perimeter
Perimeter lighting can provide accents and detail in your living or dining room. It gives a warm, understated tone.
Perimeter lighting can be used to accentuate the architectural details of the ceiling.
This adds elegance and simplicity to your room, especially if it is larger or lacks natural light. You can also consider adding a pair of small wall lamps for the same effect.
If you are on a budget, fairy lights are a lovely and affordable way to create ambiance. They can get strung around picture frames, walls, mantlepieces, or windows to frame them.
They provide a warm glow that is pretty without being overwhelming.
3. Oversized Arc Floor Lamp
If your room lacks overhead lighting, a large, modern floor lamp can save you the trouble of calling an electrician. Most come with very high arches, so no one will bump their heads on them.
It is important, however, to make sure they get placed correctly to provide the room with the maximum amount of illumination.
Large arc lamps work best in contemporary settings. They come in a variety of colors and materials. Many of these have elegant silhouettes and bulbous shades.
Oversized arc lamps can also get used for creating a cozy reading nook in your favorite chair.
4. Wall Lights
Well-placed wall lights create a warm, even glow around your room that makes it cozy. They can provide more warmth than overhead lights by adding something decorative.
These lights for walls can be used to frame a sofa or a prized work of art. They are a great way to highlight small sculptures.
Artistic sconces can help draw the eye and illuminate a tablespace. They can allow you to change where light is directed to, and provide a sculptural element. The perfect wall light can set the mood for an entire room.
5. Mix N’ Match
It is now popular to mix and match the character and style of your room’s lighting. You can mix old and new fixtures, as well as modern and classic styles.
For example, you may wish to keep your classic sconces and chandelier but add a modern table lamp. This will lend your room a unique character and personality.
You may also wish to consider light coming from different levels and sources. For example, your dining room may have perimeter lighting, as well as an elegant floor lamp. Such differentiation will add thoughtful detail and surprising delight to your entertaining space.
You can use your fixtures at the same time when you want to turn up the warmth, or separately for a quiet night in.
6. Combine Lighting and Function
While it may seem outdated, a ceiling fan light will allow you to cool off your room while keeping it inviting. Modern looks include materials such as brushed nickel, rubbed bronze, and aged pewter.
Consider highlighting the architectural details of your room with recessed or strip lighting.
You can create task lighting by placing a tall lamp behind your family’s favorite reading chair. This will be functional and easy to move. Your desk space can be illuminated with perimeter lighting or a tall floor lamp.
Lights built into your shelving can highlight special objects and accessories. They will immediately draw the eye to the shelf, creating an elegant focal point.
7. Create A Cool Vibe With Lanterns
Recently, lanterns have taken on a new role in formal living spaces. It is important to mix and match styles and heights.
Lanterns can be used on mantles and decorated seasonally. Or they can get hung on the wall to frame a mirror or photo.
You can place lanterns around your room with a variety of textiles and cushions to transform the entire space. Just be sure to use LED candles to avoid a fire hazard.
Lanterns are also a popular way to formalize your outdoor space. Consider hanging modern sconces on your porch.
Or you can place them strategically on outdoor stairs to illuminate the path for guests.
Modern Lighting Ideas
The best modern lighting ideas combine lighting styles, heights, and textures to flood your living space with warmth and elegance. Experiment with designs until you find the perfect blend for your home.
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