Plan Phase|Step 3 of 37
Identify Lighting Needs
Good lighting has layers. Understanding the three types helps you see what's missing in each room and what to add.
Time Required
30-60 minutes
Cost
$0
Difficulty
Easy
The Three Layers of Light
Ambient (General) Lighting
The base layer. Overall illumination that lets you navigate and see the room. Ceiling fixtures, recessed lights, chandeliers.
Task Lighting
Focused light for specific activities. Reading lamps, under-cabinet lights, vanity lights, desk lamps. Brighter, more directed.
Accent Lighting
Decorative and mood-setting. Picture lights, wall sconces, LED strips, candles. Creates depth and highlights features.
Room-by-Room Needs
- Living room: All three layers. Ambient for gatherings, task for reading, accent for TV time.
- Kitchen: Strong ambient + task lighting over counters and island. Accent under cabinets.
- Bedroom: Soft ambient, task at bedside for reading, accent for mood/relaxation.
- Bathroom: Good ambient, excellent task at vanity (both sides of face), optional accent.
- Home office: Task is critical for desk. Ambient for video calls. Accent optional.
Questions to Ask Each Room
- What activities happen here? Reading, cooking, relaxing, working, getting ready.
- What time of day is it used most? Morning needs different light than evening.
- Where do shadows fall? Behind you while cooking, on your face at vanity.
- Can you control the light? Dimmers for mood flexibility.
- Does it feel inviting? Harsh single overhead = institutional. Layers = home.
Pro Tips
- •Start with ambient: Get the general lighting right first, then add layers.
- •Add dimmers everywhere: The same room can feel different at the flip of a switch.
- •Most homes lack task lighting: This is usually the biggest gap to fill.
- •Accent lighting is the luxury layer: It makes spaces feel designed, not just functional.