155:Ways to create a cosy room with lighting.
Why Lighting Can Make or Break a Space
Let’s talk about lighting and why it’s so important. Seriously, it can make or break a space. It’s the difference between a cosy, inviting room and one that quite frankly, gives you a headache.
Take restaurants, for example. The food could be incredible, the service top-notch, but if the lighting is glaringly bright or coming straight down from above, it’s all I’ll remember.
The ambience? Ruined.
Maybe it’s just me, but overly bright spaces feel overstimulating and uncomfortable—and honestly, who wants to feel like when you’re trying to unwind?
But it’s not just about personal preferences; there’s some solid design logic behind it, too. Lighting has a huge impact on how a space feels and functions.
Done well, it can turn your home into a serene retreat where you can unwind from the chaos of the day.
Done poorly, and, well, it’s not great.
Big Lights vs. Low-Level Lighting
Every room needs a mix of lighting options. Sure, the big light—the ceiling one—is there for practical tasks like cleaning up after having people over or finding the dog’s toy that’s rolled under the sofa. But when it’s time to relax or entertain, it’s time to turn it off and embrace lower-level lighting.
You might have already got other lights in your room but here’s the thing: low-level lighting isn’t just one sad little lamp shoved in the corner.
Ideally, every room should have four to five light sources, including the big light. Let’s break it down:
Layering Light: The Essentials
Near Screens: Place a lamp near your TV or computer screen to diffuse the harshness of blue light. Your eyes will thank you, and it helps set a softer mood in the room.
Corners Matter: Add a freestanding lamp or a table lamp in two corners of the room. It balances the light and keeps the space from feeling flat.
Highlight Artwork: Got some artwork on the walls? Picture lights or wall sconces are a beautiful way to draw attention to it. Plus, they add an elegant layer of lighting.
Candles and LEDs: Coffee tables and bookshelves are perfect for romanticising your life with candles. And if you’ve got shelves, pop some warm white LED strips in there. It’s an easy win for ambience and highlights your book collection or decorative objects.
Don’t forget kitchens and bathrooms: Under-cabinet LEDs in the kitchen are a game-changer. They’re practical for cooking (no chopped fingers here!) but also help you unwind while you cook—think soft lighting and a glass of wine as you sauté.
Use soft lighting in the bathroom too - candles work and even rechargeable lamps that don’t need an electricity source.Dining Areas: For the dining table, a pendant light overhead is perfect, but keep it dimmable or warm enough so it doesn’t feel like you’re interrogating your dinner guests. Nobody wants to be grilled along with their steak.
The Technical Stuff: Bulbs and Shades
Now, let’s talk about bulbs.
Warm white.
That’s it. Decision made.
They’re cosy, flattering, and perfect for any space. Cool white? Save it for hospitals or airports.
Next up, think about how the light is diffused. For focused tasks (like desk work), a lamp with a metal shade that directs the light is ideal. But for softer, ambient lighting (like next to your bed or sofa), go for fabric lampshades. They spread light more gently, creating that warm, glowy vibe.
Pro tip: darker shades will emit less light than white or cream ones, so choose accordingly.
Experiment and Relax
There’s a lot to consider, but the best way to get it right is to experiment. Play around with different light sources and arrangements, and see how they affect the mood of your space. You’ll be surprised how much of a difference it makes.
Need help troubleshooting your lighting? Drop me a line. But for now, start switching off the big lights and turning on some lamps. Your space (and your mood) will thank you.
