Take before photos
Photograph each room at night to capture current lighting conditions and dark spots.
Read moreAudit current lighting
Room by room, note fixture types, bulb types, dark areas, and what feels wrong.
Read moreIdentify lighting needs
Each room needs three layers: ambient (overall), task (work areas), accent (mood).
Read moreMeasure ceiling heights
Height affects fixture choice. Low ceilings need flush mounts, high can do pendants.
Read moreSet your budget
Lighting upgrades run $500-$5,000. Plan $100-300 per room for basic refresh.
Read moreSelect ceiling fixtures
Choose flush, semi-flush, or pendants based on ceiling height and room style.
Read morePick pendant lights
Great over islands, dining tables, or in entries. Hang 30-36 inches above surface.
Read morePlan recessed lighting
Can lights provide clean ambient light. Space 4-6 feet apart for even coverage.
Read moreChoose wall sconces
Perfect for hallways, bathrooms, and flanking mirrors. Install at 60-66 inches high.
Read moreMatch finishes to decor
Coordinate fixture finishes with hardware and faucets. Common: brass, black, nickel.
Read moreSize statement fixtures
Chandeliers and large pendants: diameter should be 1/2 to 2/3 the table width.
Read moreInstall overhead fixtures
Replace dated fixtures with modern options. Turn off power at breaker first.
Read moreAdd recessed cans
Requires cutting ceiling holes and running wire. Best done during renovation or by pro.
Read moreUpgrade bedroom lighting
Bedrooms need dimmable ambient light. Ceiling fan with light is practical.
Read moreInstall dining fixture
Hang 30-36 inches above table. Should be centered over table, not room.
Read moreAdd kitchen island lights
Hang 30-36 inches above counter. Space multiple pendants 24-30 inches apart.
Read moreInstall under-cabinet lights
LED strips or puck lights eliminate counter shadows. Battery, plug-in, or hardwired.
Read moreAdd LED strip lighting
Flexible strips work under cabinets, in closets, or as accent. Linkable and cuttable.
Read moreInstall reading lights
Swing-arm wall sconces or adjustable floor lamps next to chairs or bed.
Read moreUpgrade vanity lighting
Bathroom mirrors need even lighting. Best: sconces on both sides at face height.
Read moreLight work surfaces
Add dedicated task lighting over desks, craft areas, and kitchen prep zones.
Read moreAdd spotlights
Highlight artwork, architectural features, or plants with adjustable spot lights.
Read moreInstall track lighting
Flexible system lets you aim multiple lights. Great for galleries or evolving spaces.
Read moreAdd picture lights
Small fixtures mounted above artwork for museum-quality illumination.
Read moreCreate cove lighting
Hidden LED strips in ceiling coves or behind crown molding for soft glow.
Read moreAdd toe-kick lighting
LED strips under kitchen cabinets at floor level create floating effect.
Read moreInstall dimmer switches
Every room should be dimmable. Match dimmer type to bulb type (LED, incandescent).
Read moreAdd smart switches
Control lights from phone, set schedules, integrate with voice assistants.
Read moreInstall smart bulbs
Easier than smart switches. Color-changing options available. Control per bulb.
Read moreProgram lighting scenes
Create presets: Morning (bright), Evening (warm), Movie (dim), Bedtime (minimal).
Read moreSet up voice control
Connect lights to Alexa, Google, or Siri. Use voice commands for hands-free control.
Read moreMatch color temperature
Consistent warmth throughout home. 2700K warm white for living, 3000K for kitchen.
Read moreBalance brightness levels
Rooms should have similar brightness. Avoid going from cave to spotlight.
Read moreSwitch all to LED
LEDs use 75% less energy and last 25x longer than incandescent.
Read moreTest every fixture
Turn on all lights, check for flickering, buzzing, or dead bulbs. Test dimmers.
Read moreFine-tune positioning
Adjust aim of spotlights, height of pendants, and brightness levels to perfection.
Read moreTake after photos
Same angles as before shots. Compare the transformation in light quality.
Read more