If your home decor needs a refresh, one of the most effective things you can do is to consider your choice of lighting. When used well, the lighting in your home can make all the difference to the atmosphere and functionality of each room.

In need of some home lighting ideas? Here at Castlegate Lights, we’ve created a handy guide to the do’s and don’ts of lighting in all the key areas of the home.

First, let’s start off with some main do’s and don’ts to consider for every room:

DO:

Establish your aesthetic. Does your home decor have a vintage undertone, a modern look or a rustic feel? What colour, material and finish would work best with your interior scheme? It’s helpful to consider these factors before choosing your lighting, in order to narrow down your search and ensure your choice accentuates your desired look.

DO:

Decide on which style of light fitting and lighting type works for each room. Take into consideration elements such as floor space and ceiling height to assess how practical a lighting style will be.

DON’T:

Limit yourself to one type of lighting in each room. When it comes to home lighting ideas, we recommend using two or three different sources to create a warm ambience throughout your home.

DON’T:

Forget about adding dimmer switches. Dimmers are a great addition to any room to help you control your level of lighting and adjust it accordingly for each time of day.

Now let’s look at some specific home lighting ideas for key rooms of the home:

Lighting for Hallways

DO:

Use a mix of lighting in order to create an inviting atmosphere. Hallways are versatile spaces that can benefit from a variety of lighting types. Providing you have space, floor lamps and table lamps can work particularly well.

DON’T:

Be afraid to make a statement. If you have space, why not opt for a chandelier or large lampshade? Opting for a statement light fitting is a great way to add character and style to your home decor from the minute you walk through the door.

Lighting for Kitchens

DO:

Use task lighting such as LED downlights above cupboards and worktops to efficiently illuminate every functional space that may otherwise not receive much light.

DON’T:

Neglect important areas such as kitchen islands and tables. Well-placed lighting makes all the difference in really utilising each room and creating a welcoming atmosphere; after all, the kitchen is the heart of the home.

Lighting for Dining Rooms

DO:

Consider pendant lights or a classic chandelier to hang above your table. A statement light fitting is perfect for illuminating the room during meal times and doubles as a beautiful room feature.

DON’T:

Rule out colourful lighting choices. Opting for some coloured pendant lights that work with your interior scheme can help tie a room together and add the finishing touches to your home decor.

Lighting for Living Rooms

DO:

Add a dimmer switch to your main ceiling light. The living room is one particular room in which a dimmer switch really comes in handy, enabling you to create the right ambience on relaxed evenings.

DON’T:

Rely solely on a ceiling light. When it comes to home lighting ideas for the living room, we recommend using a mix of light sources such as table lamps and floor lamps that can really help to create a cosy atmosphere.

Lighting for Bedrooms

DO:

Use a variety of lighting types in your bedroom. A bedside table lamp is a bedroom staple, while fairy lights and wall lights can serve as useful reading lights too.

DON’T:

Forget to consider bulb-wattage. While it can be tempting to opt for warm, low-watt bulbs in the bedroom, it’s important to find the right balance between too bright and too dingy.

Lighting for Bathrooms

DO:

Think about which light fittings best suit your space. If your bathroom isn’t very large, recessed ceiling lights are a great space-saver and give your bathroom a contemporary and modern aesthetic.

DON’T:

Forget to consider mirror lights. If you use your bathroom mirror to get ready in the morning, mirror lights are a great option to consider that help you make the most of your bathroom.

Looking for the perfect lighting for your home decor? You can find a huge range of light fittings and lighting types for every room here at Castlegate Lights. Explore our full collection to find the perfect lighting ideas for your home!