Lighting’s function in a home goes beyond just being a light source. Different types of lighting create different feelings throughout the house. Curious about what lighting sources and styles to consider in a renovation? Read on for a few illuminating ideas.

    If you’re new to DIY lighting projects, check out some home lighting basics before starting.


    1. Recessed Lighting

    Recessed lighting features metal light housings and is installed over the ceiling line. Homeowners love recessed lighting because the light source is invisible. While this type of lighting requires extensive wiring, with the right electrician to help, you can transform your living room.

    In addition to highlighting the ceiling line, recessed lighting adds to a room’s ambiance, making it feel warmer and full of life. This type of lighting also lends itself to minimalist design — fitting for any homeowner who prefers a modern style.

    Recessed lighting is highly versatile. You can install it in nearly any room, including kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways. It provides ambient lighting to brighten the whole room and task lighting over countertops or art pieces.

    Proper placement lets recessed lighting create a relaxing, welcoming atmosphere throughout your home. Recessed lights come in various trim sizes and shapes to seamlessly blend into your ceiling.


    2. Bigger Windows

    Enlarging your home’s windows makes the entire space feel bigger. With more access to natural light, any home with large windows will be brighter during daylight hours.

    Increased exposure to sunlight will benefit everyone in the home as natural light helps boost people’s moods and energy.

    Of course, enlarging windows is only a viable option for some rooms. If you need to increase natural lighting in rooms limited to small window openings, consider using mirrors to help bounce the light around.

    Oversized windows work well in living rooms, kitchens, and master bedrooms. Floor-to-ceiling windows can make a room feel wide open and airy. Consider installing divided-light windows or ones with architectural grids for aesthetics.

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    Be sure to think about window placement when enlarging existing windows or installing new ones. Windows facing south let in ample sunshine, while north-facing windows primarily offer soft, ambient light. East and west windows can introduce glare from morning or evening sun.


    3. Under Cabinet Lighting

    Under cabinet lighting refers to fixtures installed underneath wall-mounted cabinets, typically in kitchens. This type of lighting serves both aesthetic and functional purposes.

    The lights provide glowing warmth in the kitchen, setting an inviting mood, but act primarily as task lights, illuminating countertops to increase visibility as you prep meals.

    Among the most popular under-cabinet lighting options are LED tape lights. These energy-efficient lights come in reels and can be cut to fit your cabinetry size. You simply peel and stick them to the underside of cabinets.

    Consider installing under-cabinet lighting on upper and lower cabinets for full coverage across countertops. Dimmer switches allow you to control the brightness as needed.

    Read also: Techniques to Outdoor Solar Lighting


    4. Accent Lighting

    Beyond evenly lighting a whole room, accent lighting draws attention to specific areas or architectural details, adding drama and visual interest. Commonly accent-lit areas include artwork, wall accents, shelves, staircases, fireplaces, and other details you want to spotlight.

    Recessed directional lighting is popular, along with adjustable track heads and directional LED bulbs on pendants. This lighting contrasts with ambient lighting by highlighting through focused illumination.

    Consider pointing accent lights at light-colored walls or ceilings to create a diffuse glow. Bulbs in colors like blue or red can make accents particularly dramatic. The possibilities for accent lighting placement are nearly endless.


    So, Is Ambient Lighting Worth the Investment?

    Installing new lighting is one of the most impactful ways to transform your home’s look, feel, and function. The right lighting can make rooms feel bright, airy, cozy, and warm. It lets you highlight architectural details and create drama throughout your home.

    While any new lighting costs money upfront, the increase in home value can make it a smart investment. Properly illuminating spaces like the kitchen and living room make your home more enticing to potential buyers down the road.

    Beyond aesthetics, lighting allows safer movement around the home and visibility for daily activities. Rooms feel more usable with sufficient lighting. It can also help create a relaxing, peaceful ambiance for unwinding after a long day.

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    Evaluate each room and how improved lighting could enhance its look and purpose. Combining ambient, task, and accent lighting creates the ideal illuminated environment, breathing new life into old rooms.


    FAQs About Home Lighting

    What are the most popular types of lighting for homes?

    The most common home lighting types include recessed lights, track lights, pendant lights, chandeliers, table and floor lamps, vanity lighting, and under-cabinet lighting. Most homes have a combination of lighting types for aesthetics and function.


    How can lighting make a house more eco-friendly?

    Using LED bulbs, installing lights with timers and sensors, and maximizing natural light from windows can make lighting more eco-friendly. Smart technology allows greater control over home lighting to reduce energy consumption.


    What factors impact lighting upgrade costs?

    The main factors affecting lighting upgrade costs include fixture and bulb types, number of lights, any wiring updates needed, placement accessibility, and whether the installation is DIY or professional. Complex installations typically cost more for a professional to install.


    When should you hire a professional electrician for lighting?

    Lighting projects requiring new wiring, system integration, installing recessed lights, or high voltage work need an electrician. Professionals safely and correctly handle complex lighting jobs.


    How can lighting affect your sleep?

    Blue light exposure from fixtures and electronics suppresses melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep. Dim, warm bedroom lighting is ideal. Smart bulbs with night modes help promote healthy sleep.


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    avatar for Elisabeth Beauchamp

    Elisabeth Beauchamp

    Senior Staff Writer

    Elisabeth Beauchamp is a content producer for Today’s Homeowner’s Lawn and Windows categories. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with degrees in Journalism and Linguistics. When Elisabeth isn’t writing about flowers, foliage, and fertilizer, she’s researching landscaping trends and current events in the agricultural space. Elisabeth aims to educate and equip readers with the tools they need to create a home they love.

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    Lee Ann Merrill

    Chicago-based Lee Ann Merrill has decades of experience writing and editing across a wide range of technical and scientific subjects. Her love of DIY, gardening, and making led her to the realm of creating and honing quality content for homeowners. When she's not working on her craft, you can find her exploring her city by bike and plotting international adventures.

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