Types of Lighting in Interior Design

By Sally Painter

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There are three major categories of lighting used in interior design. One is essential low
lighting that provides practical lighting needs. Another addresses task lighting
requirement and the third one gives accent lighting options. Some lighting choices have
more than one type of application, making them versatile and valuable lighting options.

General Lighting
Low lighting is the basic type of lighting that provide general lighting to an interior.
Some low lighting choices include:

 Ceiling lights: Ceiling lights are the most commonly used form of house lighting.
Mounted flush to the ceiling, these lights provide low-light. They are typically
attached to a wall switch.
 Recessed lighting: When placed on a dimmer switch, recessed lighting can be
used for ambient ceiling lighting.
  Table lamps: If you want a truly cozy ambience, try adding a shaded table lamp
on an occasional table. The ambient effect is immediate.
 Torchière lamps: A torchière floor or table lamp reflects light toward the ceiling.
This lighting option brightens up any corner or area in a room.
 Chandeliers: A chandelier is one of the most dramatic types of fixtures. Some
chandelier designs provide both uplighting and downlighting.

Task Lighting
Direct lighting is necessary for tasks that require more light than ordinary ceiling lights
can provide. For example, task lighting is beneficial for activities such as reading,
working at a desk, cooking and other chores.
Some notable task lighting choices include:

 Under cabinet lighting: Typically mounted beneath a cabinet, under cabinet

lighting added to a kitchen, workshop or craft room provides excellent task
lighting.
 Pendant: Pendant lights are popular in kitchens and some bathroom designs.
Suspended from the ceiling, these lights provide direct overhead lighting to work
areas.

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  Desk lamps: A desk lamp, especially one with a movable arm or goose neck is
an ideal task light.
 Table lamps: A table lamp can provide needed lighting for a desk work space,
living room or bedside table. For example, a pair of buffet table lamps can be just
the right touch for serving dinners.
 Wall sconces: Some areas requiring task lighting might not be ideal for table
lamps that would take up valuable storage, work, or serving surfaces. In these
spaces, wall sconces that provide downlight can be a good alternative for task
lighting.

Accent Lighting
Accent lighting is used to highlight specific areas, artwork, or various sections of a room.

 Recessed lighting: Recessed lighting provides a subtle way to illuminate the

perimeter of a room, add softer lighting to rooms, illuminate bookcases, or
provide under cabinet lighting.
 Wall sconces: Wall sconces are a great mood-setter for a room. Whether it
provides uplighting or downlighting, this type of light fixture can brighten a
hallway, provide additional lighting for a dining room buffet, or free up floor and
surface space in a bathroom.
 Track lighting: Popularized in the 1970s, track lighting is still a favorite choice
for many people wishing to highlight works of art. It can also be used to provide
uplighting or downlighting.
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 Picture lighting: Art buffs enjoy picture lighting that can be place directly above
a painting. This type of light fixture provides direct downlighting to highlight the
work of art.
 Cove lighting: Cove lighting is used for ceilings, especially tray ceilings (also
referred to as trey ceilings), valances, and ledges. The lighting strip is placed
between the cove and the ceiling.

Choosing Your Lighting Options

Lighting plays a major design role in the overall success of any room décor. Lighting
should be layered the same way colors and textures are layered in a room. There are
many options when it comes to home décor lighting. Adding a layer or two of additional
lighting sources gives your room design greater light depth.