If I had to pick one solitary rule in my house, it would be to eliminate overhead lighting. It’s harsh, reminiscent of a doctor’s office, and lacks any kind of warmth or coziness. Not to mention that the shadows cast by these lights overhead can make you look like a creepy ghost. In other words, it’s not cute.
Photos of Brian and Jesse De Rowe’s California farmhouse.
15 Home Lighting Ideas to Brighten Up Your Space
The 2024 interior lighting trends aim for soft light in any room. Consider using multiple light sources in one space or using layered lighting. In ~. Of course, changing up your decor and furniture is one way to freshen up a space, but lighting can completely change the mood and cannot be overlooked. If you are interested in injecting a new and cozy atmosphere into your space, check out these home lighting ideas for each room.
kitchen
pendant lighting
Pendant lights aren’t a new home lighting idea. They’re often found above kitchen islands. But this year, choosing a pendant with a personality is definitely the way to go. Sculptural statement pieces, large pendants, woven materials (hello, rattan!), and retro lighting fixtures are all on trend for 2024. Not sure which style to choose? The great thing about pendants is that they’re easy to install and remove, so you can easily change them out as your style changes.
small table lamp
Placing a small lamp on your kitchen counter is not only cute, it also provides great lighting. Mini lamps can be plugged in, or you can choose a battery-operated one. I purchased a lamp from Target and put it in a corner of my kitchen with a smart bulb that turns on automatically every morning at sunrise. The soft light from the lamp is so much better than the bright overhead lights that used to be in my kitchen, especially in the early mornings. Whether you’re making your morning coffee or making a pre-workout drink before heading to the gym, there’s nothing better than the cozy glow of a mini lamp.
Another plus? Mini lamps don’t have to be expensive. Just place them somewhere where food won’t splatter while you’re cooking or preparing food!
Toe kick lighting
Footlights are ideal for those who snack late at night or wake up very early. These lights can be installed on the bottom of kitchen cabinets to illuminate the floor, allowing you to see where you are going without having to turn on a bigger, more intense light. Filling up your water before bed just got a lot more fun! You can install them yourself with an LED light strip with adhesive backing.
backyard
wireless table lamp
I’ve seen a lot of mini cordless table lamps on social media and they’ve always been a part of my outdoor tablescape. These mini lamps are battery operated and adorable, and most of them have brightness settings that you can change by simply tapping the bottom of the lamp. They give off a soft, subtle glow and create a cozy restaurant-like atmosphere. Think of them as candles in the center of your table, but they’re just mini lamps!
Light bulb string
When you’re relaxing outdoors, there’s nothing more charming than strings of light bulbs hanging overhead. Transform your outdoor space with LED string lights. Add as many as you want without hesitation. Let them be your only source of outdoor light. Solar LED string lights are also a great home lighting idea, especially if you live somewhere with steady sunlight. No need to plug them in or turn them on and off. I’ve installed one or two string lights on my balcony, and they create a magical ambiance just by looking at them from inside.
Path lighting
Sidewalk lighting is not only beautiful, but also great for safety reasons. Placing lights on your backyard paths will help you and your guests see where you are going. You can also purchase smart sidewalk lighting with motion sensors for safety and energy efficiency. More and more homeowners are putting as much effort into their outdoor spaces as they are into their indoor spaces, and sidewalk lighting can help you create a little backyard oasis.
restroom
Backlit mirror
There are many home lighting ideas for bathrooms, but one that is very popular this year is the illuminated bathroom mirror. A backlit mirror not only illuminates your entire face evenly, making it easier to apply makeup, but also reflects you very accurately. This mirror has a surround light that gives your entire bathroom a stylish and unique look.
Statement Chandelier
If you think chandeliers are only for entryways and dining rooms, think again. These statement lighting fixtures are now making their way into bathrooms. What could be more stylish than a chandelier over the tub? Install it with warm white bulbs, and if you can control it with a dimmer, even better!
Living room inspired lighting
Since the pandemic, bathrooms have become more and more cozy. Creating a spa-like environment is a top priority for many. Bathrooms are now more welcoming with lighting that is traditionally found in living rooms. Think table lamps, pretty pendants, and sconces on countertops and sinks. Don’t be afraid to get creative and layer your lighting to make your bathroom a place you want to spend time. It’s much easier to romanticize your morning routine when you’re surrounded by soft light!
living room
Sculpture Floor Lamp
Living room home lighting ideas include a mix of ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting throughout the space. Floor lamps are great for living rooms and have meaning whether they are on or off. Choosing a sculptural floor lamp will provide meaningful and cozy lighting that will make your living room more inviting.
Table lamp
Instead of relying on one large overhead light, a collection of small table lamps creates a warm and inviting environment. Place them on a side table or a nearby cabinet, and include one in your reading nook or cozy corner. The soft, soothing light is ideal for resting, relaxing, and chatting with friends. Perfect for the living room.
Gallery Lighting
Gallery lighting fixtures can be installed over framed art pieces to add a subtle glow to your favorite pieces. Using lighting to highlight specific design aspects of your home can help draw attention to specific spaces. In addition to art pieces, picture lighting is great for use over bookshelves or in place of sconces.
bedroom
Wall lamp
Home lighting ideas for the bedroom are all about creating a calming environment. Layered lighting is key, and sconces on the bedside table create the perfect cozy ambient lighting for bedtime. Sconces are wall-mounted and are ideal when you want a little more space on the surface of your bedside table. Maximize your space and embrace your own personality by choosing sconces over your bedside table lamp.
salt lamp
Himalayan salt lamps emit a warm, subtle light that is perfect for bedtime. The soft, warm light helps you relax and unwind from the day’s fatigue, and promotes a good night’s rest. They look beautiful on your dresser or bedside table, and if you prefer, there are also salt lamp night lights and bulbs.
Headboard lighting
Ambient light behind the headboard? Yes, please! Last year, sleep number Rollout bed with built-in lighting features such as reading lights and headboard lights. The headboard lights can be dimmed to help you relax and wake up feeling relaxed. The lights are behind the headboard, so they bounce light onto the wall behind you, creating a cozy effect. If you’re not looking for a new headboard, you can also install LED strip lights to achieve a similar effect!
