When it comes to designing a space that feels both beautiful and functional, one of the most overlooked yet impactful elements is lighting. We believe that great design isn’t just about the furniture or the finishes—it’s about how everything comes together to make a space feel inviting and complete. And lighting plays a huge role in that.
Why Layered Lighting Matters
Layered lighting creates depth, warmth, and versatility in your home. It’s the secret sauce that takes a room from flat and one-dimensional to rich and atmospheric. Think of it as the combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting working together to elevate your design.
Here’s how you can layer lighting like a pro:
1. Start With Ambient Lighting
This is your room’s base layer—typically from ceiling fixtures like chandeliers, recessed lights, or flush mounts. Ambient lighting provides overall illumination and sets the tone of the space. Opt for dimmers wherever possible to give yourself flexibility throughout the day.
Design Tip: In living rooms and bedrooms, choose soft white bulbs for a warm, welcoming glow.
2. Add Task Lighting For Functionality
Task lighting is all about function. Think reading lamps in your living room, pendants over a kitchen island, or sconces in a bathroom. It’s targeted lighting that helps you perform specific tasks—and when chosen thoughtfully, it also becomes a design moment.
Design Tip: A pair of brass sconces framing a bathroom mirror adds instant charm and symmetry while providing practical light.
3. Finish with Accent Lighting
Accent lighting brings dimension and style. This could be a picture light above a piece of art, a small table lamp on a console, or LED strip lighting tucked under a cabinet. It highlights the details you love and helps draw the eye to your room’s most beautiful features.
Design Tip: Try placing a small lamp on your kitchen counter – its unexpected, cozy and perfect for winding down in the evening.
4. Mix Materials and Styles
Don’t be afraid to mix finishes and styles with your lighting choices. Combining textures—like matte black with natural wood or antique brass with rattan—adds personality and balance. A well-curated mix brings that effortless, lived-in look we love.
Next time you’re refreshing a space, don’t stop at paint and pillows. A well-planned lighting strategy can completely transform the feel of your home. By layering light, you’re not just illuminating a room—you’re giving it life.
For more lighting inspiration, shop our Lighting Collection available on Becki Owens Living.
Xxo
Becki
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