How to Layer Your Lighting

If you’re unhappy with the look of a certain room in your home, the solution could be as easy as installing proper lighting. To maximize functionality, layering light balances a room while offering versatile options for any occasion. There are three types of lighting that help create this effect: ambient, task and accent. You can use this technique for both interior and exterior lighting to achieve your desired look and feel.

Set Your Base

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Ambient lighting is your main source. Whether you have ceiling mounted chandeliers, pendants or recessed downlights, your ambient lighting provides a base for the entire room. Dimmer switches are often installed to control ambient lighting when the homeowner wants to create a different level of ambiance from day to night.

Illuminate for a Purpose

Task lighting varies from room to room. It helps you to see when performing specific actions within your home. In the kitchen, you might want under-cabinet lighting to help you see while cooking. In the bathroom, sconces on either side of the mirror eliminate shadows and help you accomplish day-to-day grooming tasks.

Create Depth

Accent lighting highlights the aesthetic features of a room. It can make a space look larger while providing directional illumination for your guests. Accent lighting can be placed wherever you like. Since it is used to attract attention to a specific area or object, the placement of this type of lighting does not necessarily need to be strategic.

Interior vs. Exterior

  • Ambient: There is not much of a variation between interior and landscape ambient lighting. The source could be a chandelier, pendant light or ceiling fan suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
  • Task: Indoor task lighting could be pendant lights above the kitchen island for preparing meals or your bed to help you read. Place landscape task lighting along the walkway and grilling area.
  • Accent: Where you place this type of lighting is a matter of personal preference, whether indoor or outdoor. Plants, statues, artwork and water features are common structures to highlight.

At Connecticut Lighting Centers, you will find a vast array of ambient, task and accent lighting fixtures. Visit our Hartford or Southington showroom to shop our inventory today.

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