How to Create the Perfect Lighting for Your Home

Originally Published: November 17, 2023

Content Updated: September 1, 2026

What to Consider

Types of Lighting Based on the Room

Recommended Residential Lighting Fixtures

Common Lighting Mistakes to Avoid

In interior design, lighting often takes a backseat to elements like furniture, wall colors, and layout. However, lighting impacts the functionality and decorative appeal of your living spaces, and different lights are better suited for certain installations. Strategically incorporating multiple types of lighting increases flexibility in how you use your space by providing sufficient light for various tasks. Additionally, a well-lit home exterior can deter potential break-ins by eliminating dark corners and shadows where intruders could lurk. In this article, we will discuss all aspects of creating the perfect residential lighting design.

What to Consider 

There are many factors to consider when planning your lighting layout for your residential space. 

• Room Size: Smaller rooms (100 to 200 ft²) may only require a single light source. Medium-sized rooms (200 to 400 ft²) typically begin to incorporate multiple light sources based on the tasks performed and where there are dark areas. A large, open space will utilize multiple light sources. These spaces may need to combine overhead lights, wall lights, and lamps to distribute light evenly. 

• Purpose of the Room: Task-specific rooms require bright lighting aimed where work is performed. Natural or cool white is best suited for task-specific rooms to increase alertness and focus. Rooms used for relaxation and enjoyment are better suited to warm white light that makes the space feel cozy and comfortable. The lighting in these rooms can be dimmer than in task-oriented rooms. For multipurpose rooms used for both work and leisure, a combination of both may be necessary. Install dimmer switches to change the brightness or opt for tunable white lights. 

• How Light Interacts With the Room: Consider how natural and artificial light interacts with different elements in your room. Glossy, shiny surfaces such as granite countertops, polished wood tables, and TV screens may reflect light and cause unwanted glare. For under-cabinet lighting, choose COB strips to eliminate hot spots. To reduce glare on TVs, install recessed lighting or choose aimable gimbal or track lights that can be adjusted away from the screen. 

• Room Color and Natural Light: Lighter walls and flooring tend to reflect light and make the room appear brighter, whereas darker surfaces absorb light and make the space seem darker and smaller. Observe which rooms receive more natural light and then consider strategically placing mirrors and other reflective surfaces to reflect sunlight into dark areas of the room. 

• Correlated Color Temperature: Residential lighting comes in various color temperature ranges, from warm white to cool white. 

• Types of Lighting: There are four main types of lighting to consider in your home.

  • Accent Lighting: Used to highlight particular features in a room and creates depth and dimension. Fixtures include track lights and spot beam light bulbs.

  • Ambient Lighting: The primary source of illumination for a space. Fixtures include ceiling lights and wall-mounted fixtures.

  • Decorative Lighting: Lighting that serves as a statement piece. Fixtures include string lights, pendant lights, and wall sconces. 

  • Task Lighting: Provides focused light for specific jobs. Fixtures include desk lamps, under-cabinet lights, and shop and garage lights. 

IES Recommended Lighting Levels 

Since different areas in your home have different lighting needs, the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) has set recommended lighting levels to ensure each room is sufficiently lit. These recommendations are in foot-candles. To calculate the total lumens each room needs, multiply the room’s square footage by the suggested foot-candles. 

Types of Lighting Based on the Room 

Each area in your home will serve different purposes and have unique lighting needs. Consider the following tips when selecting lighting 

• Bathrooms: Should combine task and ambient lighting. Use a high CRI for doing makeup and grooming. IP64 and above strip lights are great for areas prone to moisture or direct water contact. Or, install with aluminum channels that reach an IP67 rating. 

• Bedrooms: Create a relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for winding down after a long day. For ambient lighting, implement overhead fixtures or lamps, and bulbs with a warm CCT. 

• Dining Rooms: Should have sufficient lighting for eating, entertaining, and working. Overhead lighting should be centered over the dining table. Given the multifunctional nature of dining rooms, connecting a dimmer switch to these fixtures can be beneficial. 

• Garages: Proper garage lighting is essential for accessibility and functionality. Since most garages don’t receive sufficient natural lighting, it’s important to choose lights that can cast light overhead to all corners of your garage. 

• Home Theaters: Lights should be carefully thought out so they don’t distract from the action on-screen. Dimmable options are an ideal choice to provide bright lights before and after the movie, but dim down during. 

• Kitchens: Requires clear and focused lighting over counters, stovetops, and sinks. You must consider the design elements, such as shiny glass counters that can reflect light and potentially cause glare. Position lights strategically to minimize reflections or use diffused lenses to ensure even light distribution. 

• Living Rooms: Lighting should account for various activities, including entertaining, relaxing, and lounging. You should utilize proper light layering to account for the various activities done there. Combine multiple light sources at different levels to create balanced and dynamic illumination. Choosing a warm white light can create a relaxing atmosphere and is less harsh on the eyes. 

• Staircases: Lighting is an essential part of improving the accessibility of your staircases. Installing lights around staircases helps you see properly and reduces the risk of tripping or stumbling. 

• Outdoors: Using a combination of decorative lighting and security lighting with motion sensors allows your space to be enjoyed well into the evening and makes it safer and more accessible. 

Recommended Residential Lighting Fixtures

Flush Mount Ceiling Lights

Flush mount ceiling fixtures are often used in bathrooms, living rooms, kitchens, hallways, dining rooms, and offices. These fixtures are installed directly onto the ceiling and come in various styles and sizes to fit your design preference. These ceiling lights are especially beneficial in rooms with low ceilings where pendant or chandelier lighting might be obtrusive. 

LED Light Bulbs

Using LED light bulbs in your residential lighting design is one of the best ways to add bright, reliable lighting. LEDs can replace inefficient incandescent and halogen bulbs in any home application. For help figuring out which light bulb type you need, read our guide on the different light bulb types here. Unlike traditional bulbs, certain LED light bulbs are designed to emit a specific beam angle to fit certain tasks and functions. A spot beam angle may be preferred in areas where detailed tasks are being performed, such as above desks or in reading nooks. A flood beam angle is ideal for general overhead lighting covering larger spaces. 

Recessed Downlights

Recessed downlights, also known as recessed can lights, offer a sleek and modern design. These lights are set into the ceiling, resulting in a low-profile finish that seamlessly integrates into any space. You can install recessed downlights in your kitchen, dining room, bedroom, living room, office, or bathroom. For retrofit applications, you should use a can light retrofit, while canless downlights are ideal for new construction. Lights with a built-in junction box are available, which have the electrical box integrated with the fixture, simplifying installation and increasing safety. For more detailed information, check out our Residential Downlight Buying Guide. 

Track Lights

Track lights offer a flexible and stylish solution for residential lighting. These fixtures allow homeowners to direct light precisely where needed, making them perfect for highlighting features or providing task lighting. Common installation areas include kitchens, living rooms, and home galleries. Given their versatility, track lights are often chosen for spaces that require a combination of ambient, task, or accent lighting. For assistance choosing the best track lighting, refer to our comprehensive blog. 

Under-Cabinet Lights

Under-cabinet lights are a popular lighting option for kitchens. The most common types of under-cabinet lighting are LED strip lights and linear light bars. Strip lights are beneficial for areas needing long runs of light or wanting RGB or RGB+W color display options. Strip light kits are available with all the materials needed for installation. Linear light bars are best if you want a plug-and-play fixture that comes ready to install. For an in-depth look at how to install under-cabinet lights, consult our step-by-step installation guide.

Outdoor Wall Lights

The lighting design of your home extends past interior lighting to also include your outdoor spaces and architectural features. Outdoor wall lights increase functionality and safety, while also elevating the decorative look of the exterior. Modern gooseneck lights, bulkhead lights, mini wall packs, and sconce lights can transform your outdoor space with their bright illumination and durable construction. These fixtures are typically installed in outdoor entryways, patios, garages, and along exterior walls to create welcoming pathways and deter potential intruders. Our wildlife-friendly wall lights are great for homes located near beaches or conservation areas to protect animals. 

Patio String Lights

Installing patio string lights can help transform your deck or patio into a relaxing outdoor space. These lights create an inviting atmosphere for outdoor dinners and evening gatherings. Patio string lights emit soft, gentle illumination that complements your outdoor decor. 

Shop and Garage Lights

Installing shop and garage lights ensures you have enough navigating in and out of vehicles and around other objects. Garage lights provide sufficient illumination throughout the larger spaces. These fixtures are also great if you have a workbench space that requires bright task lights. Garage lighting includes linear light fixtures, high bay lights, screw base bulbs, and retrofit kits. 

Wall Switches and Dimmers

While not exactly a light fixture, switches and dimmers are an essential part of any lighting design. These products give homeowners control over the light intensity to elicit a specific mood in their space. When considering adding a dimmer to your lighting system, you must first ensure that your lights are dimmable. Choose a dimmer switch that is compatible with your lights. Some lights are compatible with standard TRIAC dimmers, while others may use 0-10V or PWM dimming. During installation, always turn off the power at the circuit breaker to ensure safety.

Smart Lights 

Smart Lighting allows users to control light fixtures remotely via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, apps, or other smart devices like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. These offer increased customization and flexibility for changes in brightness, color temperature, scheduling, and more. This can help save energy by automatically turning lights on and off when they are not needed. Smart lights also assist with home security by adjusting lights while homeowners are away based on preprogrammed or real-time commands. Popular smart lighting products include light bulbs, strip lights, flood lights, patio string lights, and landscape light fixtures. Learn more about smart lighting here.

What Are Common Lighting Mistakes to Avoid?

There are many common mistakes made when planning the lighting for your home. One common mistake is choosing lights with the wrong CCT. Selecting a warm CCT in an area where focus and productivity are essential can make it difficult to concentrate. Similarly, using a cool CCT in areas designed for relaxation and comfort will likely have an adverse effect. Another mistake is not using LEDs. LEDs offer higher energy efficiency compared to incandescent and fluorescent bulbs. This leads to lower costs over time with reduced electricity bills and fewer replacements. 

Additionally, not considering layering your lighting in your home. Layering lights creates depth in your home. This is done through implementing the four types of lighting discussed previously in this article. You also should consider horizontal, vertical, and depth layering. Horizontal layering is done by spreading lights evenly throughout ceilings and walls. Vertical layering uses lights installed at varying heights to create dimension. Depth layering is completed by installing lights in the foreground and background of a room to create depth.

Read this blog to learn more about other common lighting mistakes. 

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Get started shopping for your residential lighting fixtures now. Contact us with questions by calling 866-590-3533 or by filling out our email form. 

The correlated color temperature, or CCT, determines the hue and shade of white a light displays. This is measured in degrees Kelvin (K). Light at 2000K-2500K is considered ultra-warm and has a hue similar to candlelight. Lights with a CCT of 2700K-3500K are considered warm white and appear yellowish. Natural white refers to light with a CCT around 4000K-4500K and appears as pure white light. Finally, any light at 5000K and above is considered to be a cool white. These lights give off a blueish-white appearance. 

Different retailers might have varying names for these temperatures, so it is important to refer to the color temperature in Kelvins. For instance, a 2700K bulb will emit the same color temperature across stores regardless of its descriptive name.

When selecting an LED bulb for your room, think about the desired ambiance and the room's purpose. Warm white bulbs with lower CCTs give a warmer hue, making spaces appear cozier but possibly dimmer. Natural and cool white bulbs are ideal for task-oriented spaces like kitchens or offices because of their crisper light which makes you more alert. Below is a list of common household rooms and their recommended CCT.

• Warm White: Living Rooms, Bedrooms, Dining Rooms, Nurseries
• Natural White: Bathrooms, Closets, Utility/Storage Rooms, Offices
• Cool White: Kitchens, Garages, Outdoor Security Lighting

A successful interior lighting design carefully combines the four main types of lighting. Ambient lighting is the primary source of illumination for a space. Common light fixtures used to create this general lighting coverage include ceiling lights and wall-mounted fittings. Task lighting provides focused light for specific jobs such as reading, cooking, or writing. Desk lamps, under-cabinet lights, or shop and garage lights are good examples of task lighting fixtures. Accent lighting serves to highlight particular features in a room and to create depth and dimension. There are a variety of lights that can be used to provide accent lighting including strip lights and track lights. Lastly, decorative lighting is any lighting that serves as a statement piece. Common decorative lights include patio string lights, chandeliers, and wall sconces.

Strategically layering light enhances the balance and functionality of residential spaces. In any room, integrating various light sources at the top, middle, and bottom of the room creates depth in your lighting design. Flush mount ceiling lights or recessed downlights provide lighting for the entire room and set the general tone. Mid-level fixtures, such as wall sconces or table lamps, offer focused lighting for specific tasks and soften shadows cast by the overhead fixtures. Bottom-layer lighting from plug-in motion sensor lights or toe-kick lights emits a soft glow to light up the floor for increased accessibility. Together, these layers of light provide balance. 

You can also layer the four different types of lighting to give your room enough light for various tasks. For example, in the kitchen, layer ambient overhead lighting and under-cabinet task lighting to give sufficient background lighting for casual kitchen use but also enough focused lighting for cooking and preparing food. A good lighting design includes at least two of the main types of lighting.

Smart lighting refers to advanced lighting technology that allows the user to control light fixtures remotely via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, apps, or other smart devices like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. These lighting systems offer increased customization and flexibility for changes in brightness, color temperature, scheduling, and more. Popular smart light products include smart LED bulbs, strip lights, and downlights, which can all be integrated into home automation systems. 

Integrating smart lights into a home automation system offers the convenience of scheduling lights around daily activities which eliminates the need for manual control. This can help save energy by automatically turning lights on and off when they are not needed. Smart lights also assist with home security by adjusting lights while homeowners are away based on preprogrammed or real-time commands. These lights can also interact with other smart devices, creating an interconnected home environment. Learn more about smart lighting here.

The size and purpose of your room will determine the amount of light it should receive. The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) has set recommendations for how much light a room needs in footcandles. A footcandle (fc) is a unit of illuminance, or light intensity, representing the amount of light cast on a 1ft² surface by 1 candela source that is 1 foot away. Understanding footcandles is crucial as it helps in determining the appropriate lighting levels for different tasks and areas in a home. Below is a list of recommended footcandles for various residential rooms.

Using these recommendations and the equation below, you can figure out how many total lumens your room should receive. This will help you find lights that will emit the proper brightness. 

Room square footage* x Suggested footcandles for that type of room = Lumens needed

 *Calculate a room’s square footage by multiplying its length by its width