How to Choose Lighting for a Living Room
- 1). Identify the types of lighting you need. In a living room, general lighting, or whole-room lighting, such as that given off by overhead fixtures, is a must, as is task lighting, or lighting for specific activities, such as reading or sewing. Accent lighting is often used in living rooms for decorative purposes.
- 2). Install general lighting or lighting intended to illuminate the entire area. In large living rooms or rooms with angles, this may mean installing several overhead fixtures. Recessed, or can, lights are perfect for rooms where multiple overhead fixtures are needed, or for those who like the clean, uncluttered style of recessed lighting. Installing different lights to different light switches will allow you to illuminate specific areas of the room as needed.
- 3). Use task lighting with specific areas and activities in mind. If several members of the family like to read in the living room, pair lamps with chairs or sofas to provide enough light near seating. If a corner of the room is used for hobbies, make sure there is adequate lighting provided there.
- 4). Add accent lighting if desired. Accent lighting can lighten dark areas of the room while also shedding light on plants, artwork or even beautiful furniture pieces. Accent lighting should be dimmer than general or task lighting, and shouldn't illuminate more than just a small area or specific object.
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