If I had to choose one single rule for my home, it would be to eliminate overhead lighting. It was harsh, reminiscent of a doctor’s office, lacking any warmth or comfort. Not to mention this light can make you look like a ghost as it casts shadows on your head. In other words, not cute.
Featured image of Brian and Jessie De Lowe’s California farmhouse.
15 Home Lighting Ideas to Brighten Up Your Space
Interior lighting trends for 2024 aim to give off a soft glow, no matter which room you decide to be in. exist. Of course, changing up the decor and furniture is one way to freshen up a space, but lighting can completely change the mood and shouldn’t be ignored. If you want to inject a new, cozy vibe into your space, check out these home lighting ideas room by room.
kitchen
chandelier
Pendant lights aren’t a new home lighting idea—you almost always see them on kitchen islands. But this year, choosing a chandelier with personality is definitely a good choice. In 2024, sculptural pieces, oversized pendants, woven materials (hello, rattan!) and retro-inspired lighting are all on trend. Not sure what style to go with? The beauty of pendants is that they are easy to install and remove, so they can change as your style changes.
small table lamp
Not only is it cute to have a small lamp on your kitchen counter, but it also provides great light. A mini light can be plugged in, or you can opt for a battery-operated light. I placed a Target light bulb in the corner of my kitchen, equipped with a smart light bulb that automatically turns on every morning at sunrise. The soft glow from the lamp is much nicer than the bright overhead lights I have in my kitchen, especially in the early morning. There’s nothing better than the cozy glow of a mini light while I’m making coffee in the morning, or whipping up some pre-workout food before heading to the gym.
Another plus? Mini lights don’t have to be expensive. Just be sure to keep them somewhere where food won’t get spilled when cooking or preparing!
toe kick lighting
Toe lights are great for late night snackers or early risers. These lights can be installed at the base of kitchen cabinets and illuminate the floor, allowing you to see where you’re going without having to turn on larger, harsher lights. Replenishing water before going back to bed just got so much more enjoyable! You can install it yourself using adhesive-backed LED strips.
backyard
wireless desk lamp
I see mini cordless table lamps all the time on social media and they are always part of the outdoor tablescape. These mini lights are battery-operated, so cute, and most have brightness settings that can be switched with just a tap on the base of the light. They emit a soft and subtle glow that creates a cozy atmosphere, just like a restaurant. You can think of it like a candle in the center of the table, it’s just a mini light!
string lights
When you’re lounging outdoors, there’s nothing more charming than a string of lights overhead. Transform your outdoor space with LED string lights. Be generous and pack as much as you want – let it be your only source of outdoor lighting. Solar-powered LED string lights are also a great home lighting idea, especially if you live in a sunny location. They don’t need to be plugged in, and you don’t even need to turn them off and on. I have a rope or two on my balcony and they create a magical atmosphere even just admiring them indoors.
Channel light
Road lights are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they are also very useful for safety reasons. Add lights to your backyard path so you and your guests can see where they’re going. You can even get smart pathway lights with motion sensors for safety and energy efficiency. More and more we are seeing homeowners investing as much effort into their outdoor spaces as their indoor spaces, and path lights can guide you into your own little backyard oasis.
bathroom
backlit mirror
There are many home lighting ideas for the bathroom, but one of the most popular this year is the illuminated bathroom mirror. Backlit mirrors cast light evenly across your entire face, making it easy to apply makeup, not to mention reflect yourself very accurately. These mirrors come with lights that surround the perimeter and they give the entire bathroom a polished and unique look.
Personalized chandelier
If you think chandeliers are only for entryways and dining rooms, think again. These eye-catching lighting fixtures are now making their way into bathrooms. Is there anything more chic than a chandelier above a soaking tub? Be sure to fit them with warm white bulbs, even better if they can be mounted on a dimmer too!
living room lighting inspiration
Since the pandemic, bathrooms have become increasingly comfortable. Creating a spa-like environment is a top priority for many people. Today, we are seeing bathrooms become more welcoming thanks to lighting that is traditionally seen in living rooms. Think table lamps on counters and vanities, as well as beautiful pendants and wall sconces. Don’t be afraid to get creative and layer your lighting to make your bathroom a place you want to spend time.
living room
sculptural floor lamp
Living room home lighting ideas include a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting throughout the space. Floor lamps are perfect for living rooms and they make a statement whether they are on or off. Choosing a sculptural floor lamp not only makes a statement, but also provides comfortable light to make your living room feel more welcoming.
desk lamp
Instead of relying on one large overhead light, a small collection of table lamps will create a warm and inviting environment. Place them on a side table or nearby cabinet, and be sure to place one in a reading nook or cozy nook. The soft, soothing light is perfect for relaxing, hanging out, and chatting with friends, and is perfect for the living room.
gallery lamp
Gallery lighting fixtures can go beyond your framed art, bringing a subtle glow to your beloved pieces. Using lights to highlight certain design aspects of your home can help draw attention to specific spaces. In addition to art, picture lamps are also perfect for placing on top of bookshelves or where wall sconces are placed.
bedroom
wall lamp
Home lighting concepts for bedrooms are all about creating a calm environment. Layered lighting is key, and scones on the bedside table create a cozy ambient light, perfect for bedtime. Wall sconces are mounted on the wall and are ideal if you want to leave more space on your bedside table surface. Opting for a wall sconce instead of a bedside table lamp maximizes space while also reflecting your own personal style.
salt lamp
Himalayan salt lamps emit a warm, subtle glow that’s perfect for bedtime. Soft, warm lighting can help you relax from the day’s fatigue while promoting a good night’s rest. They look beautiful on your dresser or bedside table, or they even come with a salt lamp night light and bulb if you prefer.
headboard lighting
Is there ambient light behind the headboard? Yes, please! Last year, Sleep Number introduced beds with built-in lighting features, such as reading lamps and headboard lights. You can adjust the brightness of your headboard light so you can relax and even wake up easily. The lamp is located at the back end of the headboard, so the light hits the wall behind, creating a cozy effect. If you’re not in the market for a new headboard, installing LED light strips can give you a similar effect!
