If I had to pick one single, solitary rule for my home, it would be to banish overhead lighting. It’s harsh, reminiscent of a doctor’s office, and lacks any sort of warmth or coziness. Not to mention this light can make you look like a spooky ghost, thanks to the shadows it casts over your head. In other words, not cute.
Featured image of Brian and Jessie De Lowe’s California farmhouse.
15 Home Lighting Ideas to Brighten Your Space
Interior lighting trends in 2024 aim for a soft glow, no matter what room you decide to be in. Layered lighting, or using different light sources in one space, is in. Switching up decor and furniture is, of course, one way to refresh your space, but lighting can completely transform the vibe and not be overlooked. If you’re curious about infusing your space with a new, cozy ambience—check out these home lighting ideas, room by room.
Kitchen
Pendant lighting
Pendant lighting is not a new home lighting idea—you almost always see them over a kitchen island. But this year, opting for a pendant light with personality is definitely the way to go. In 2024, sculptural statement pieces, oversized pendants, woven materials (hello rattan!) and retro style lighting fixtures are all trending. Not sure what style to embrace? The beauty of pendants is that they’re easy to install and uninstall, so they can change just as simply as your style evolves.
Small table lamps
Placing a small lamp on your kitchen counter is not only adorable, but the light is great too. A mini lamp can be plugged in, or you could opt for a battery operated lamp as well. I have one from Target tucked into a corner of my kitchen, equipped with a Smart bulb that automatically turns on at sunrise every morning. The soft glow from the lamp is so much nicer than the bright, overhead light my kitchen came equipped with—especially early in the morning. There’s nothing like the cozy glow of a mini lamp when I’m making my morning coffee, or whipping up some pre-workout before I head to the gym.
Another plus? Mini lamps don’t have to be expensive. Just be sure to place them in a spot where they won’t be splattered with food while cooking or preparing!
Toe kick lighting
Toe kick lights are ideal for late night snackers or very early risers. These lights can be installed at the bottom of your kitchen cabinets, illuminating the floor so you can see where you’re going without turning on a larger, harsher light. Filling your water before going back to bed just got a lot more pleasant! You can install this yourself with a strip of LED lights with an adhesive backing.
Backyard
Cordless table lamps
I’ve been seeing mini cordless table lamps all over my social media, and they’re always part of outdoor tablescapes. These mini lamps are battery operated and adorable, and most have brightness settings that can be switched just by tapping the base of the lamp. They emit a soft and subtle glow and create a cozy ambience, just like a restaurant would. Think of it like a candle at the center of your table, it’s just a mini lamp instead!
String lights
There’s nothing more charming than strings of lights overhead as you lounge outdoors. Transform your outdoor space with LED string lights. Be generous and include as many as you like—let it be your only source of outdoor lighting. Solar-powered LED string lights are also a great home lighting idea, especially if you live somewhere with reliable sun. They don’t need to be plugged in and you don’t even need to turn them off and on. I have a string or two on my balcony and they create a magical vibe, even just by admiring them indoors.
Pathway lights
Not only are pathway lights beautiful, but they are also great for safety reasons. Dot your backyard paths with lights so you and your guests can see where they’re going. You could even get Smart pathway lights with motion sensors for both safety and energy efficiency. More and more, we’re seeing homeowners put just as much effort into their outdoor spaces as their indoor ones, and pathway lights can guide you into your own little backyard oasis.
Bathroom
Backlit mirrors
There are many home lighting ideas for the bathroom, but one that’s making waves this year are illuminated bathroom mirrors. Backlit mirrors cast light evenly throughout your entire face, making make-up application easy, not to mention a very accurate reflection of yourself. These mirrors come equipped with lights that surround the perimeter, and they give the entire bathroom a polished and unique look.
Statement chandeliers
If you think chandeliers are reserved only for entryways and dining rooms—think again. These statement lighting fixtures are now making their way into bathrooms. Is there anything more chic than a chandelier over a soaking tub? Be sure to install them with warm white bulbs and even better if they can be on a dimmer as well!
Living room inspired lighting
Ever since the pandemic, bathrooms are becoming cozier and cozier. Creating a spa-like environment is top of mind for many. Now we’re seeing bathrooms become even more welcoming with lighting you traditionally see in a living room. Think table lamps on counters and vanities, and pretty pendants and sconces. Don’t be afraid to lean into your creativity and layer lighting so the bathroom becomes a place you want to spend time in. It’s so much easier to romanticize your morning routine when you’re surrounded with soft light!
Living Room
Sculptural floor lamps
Living room home lighting ideas include a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting throughout your space. Floor lamps are wonderful for living rooms, and they make a statement whether they’re on or off. Going for a sculptural floor lamp will create a statement, while also providing cozy light, making your living room all the more inviting.
Table lamps
Instead of relying on one large overhead light, a small collection of table lamps will create a warm and inviting environment. Place them on side tables or nearby cabinets and definitely include one in a reading nook or cozy corner. The gentle, soothing light is ideal for relaxing, lounging, and chatting with friends—perfect for a living room.
Gallery lights
Gallery lighting fixtures can go above your framed art, offering a subtle glow to your beloved pieces. Using light to highlight certain design aspects of your home can help draw attention to specific spaces. In addition to art, picture lights are great on top of bookshelves or in place of where you’d put a sconce.
Bedroom
Sconces
Home lighting ideas for the bedroom are all about creating a calm environment. Layered light is key, and scones over nightstands create a cozy, ambient light that’s perfect for bedtime. Sconces mount on the wall and are ideal if you’d like a little more space on the surface of your nightstand. Choose a sconce over a bedside table lamp to maximize space and embrace your own personal style too.
Salt lamps
Himalayan salt lamps emit a warm, subtle glow that is perfect for bedtime. Soft, warm light can help you relax and unwind from the day—all while promoting a good night’s rest. They look gorgeous resting on a dresser or a nightstand, or if you prefer, they even have salt lamp nightlights and bulbs.
Headboard lighting
Ambient light at the back of your headboard? Yes, please! Last year, Sleep Number rolled out beds that included lighting features built in, like reading lights and headboard lights. You can adjust how bright the headboard lights are so you can unwind and even wake up with ease. The lights are at the back end of the headboard, so light emits on the wall behind, creating a cozy effect. If you’re not in the market for a new headboard, installing LED strip lights can also give you a similar effect!