By Alexander Georges · Last updated April 26, 2026

Lighting Upgrade Checklist

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Plan

Take before photos

Photograph each room at night to capture current lighting conditions and dark spots.

Audit current lighting

Room by room, note fixture types, bulb types, dark areas, and what feels wrong.

Identify lighting needs

Each room needs three layers: ambient (overall), task (work areas), accent (mood).

Measure ceiling heights

Height affects fixture choice. Low ceilings need flush mounts, high can do pendants.

Set your budget

Lighting upgrades run $500-$5,000. Plan $100-300 per room for basic refresh.

Choose

Select ceiling fixtures

Choose flush, semi-flush, or pendants based on ceiling height and room style.

Pick pendant lights

Great over islands, dining tables, or in entries. Hang 30-36 inches above surface.

Plan recessed lighting

Can lights provide clean ambient light. Space 4-6 feet apart for even coverage.

Choose wall sconces

Perfect for hallways, bathrooms, and flanking mirrors. Install at 60-66 inches high.

Match finishes to decor

Coordinate fixture finishes with hardware and faucets. Common: brass, black, nickel.

Size statement fixtures

Chandeliers and large pendants: diameter should be 1/2 to 2/3 the table width.

Ambient

Install overhead fixtures

Replace dated fixtures with modern options. Turn off power at breaker first.

Add recessed cans

Requires cutting ceiling holes and running wire. Best done during renovation or by pro.

Upgrade bedroom lighting

Bedrooms need dimmable ambient light. Ceiling fan with light is practical.

Install dining fixture

Hang 30-36 inches above table. Should be centered over table, not room.

Add kitchen island lights

Hang 30-36 inches above counter. Space multiple pendants 24-30 inches apart.

Task

Install under-cabinet lights

LED strips or puck lights eliminate counter shadows. Battery, plug-in, or hardwired.

Add LED strip lighting

Flexible strips work under cabinets, in closets, or as accent. Linkable and cuttable.

Install reading lights

Swing-arm wall sconces or adjustable floor lamps next to chairs or bed.

Upgrade vanity lighting

Bathroom mirrors need even lighting. Best: sconces on both sides at face height.

Light work surfaces

Add dedicated task lighting over desks, craft areas, and kitchen prep zones.

Accent

Add spotlights

Highlight artwork, architectural features, or plants with adjustable spot lights.

Install track lighting

Flexible system lets you aim multiple lights. Great for galleries or evolving spaces.

Add picture lights

Small fixtures mounted above artwork for museum-quality illumination.

Create cove lighting

Hidden LED strips in ceiling coves or behind crown molding for soft glow.

Add toe-kick lighting

LED strips under kitchen cabinets at floor level create floating effect.

Controls

Install dimmer switches

Every room should be dimmable. Match dimmer type to bulb type (LED, incandescent).

Add smart switches

Control lights from phone, set schedules, integrate with voice assistants.

Install smart bulbs

Easier than smart switches. Color-changing options available. Control per bulb.

Program lighting scenes

Create presets: Morning (bright), Evening (warm), Movie (dim), Bedtime (minimal).

Set up voice control

Connect lights to Alexa, Google, or Siri. Use voice commands for hands-free control.

Finish

Match color temperature

Consistent warmth throughout home. 2700K warm white for living, 3000K for kitchen.

Balance brightness levels

Rooms should have similar brightness. Avoid going from cave to spotlight.

Switch all to LED

LEDs use 75% less energy and last 25x longer than incandescent.

Test every fixture

Turn on all lights, check for flickering, buzzing, or dead bulbs. Test dimmers.

Fine-tune positioning

Adjust aim of spotlights, height of pendants, and brightness levels to perfection.

Take after photos

Same angles as before shots. Compare the transformation in light quality.

Need more?

Bathroom Refresh 1-2 weeks Smart Home Setup 1-2 weeks Whole Home Refresh 1-3 months