The Art of Lighting

A Comprehensive Guide to Illuminating Your Home with Purpose and Style

By Sarah Mitchell | Senior Home Styling Expert, Guérip

The right light transforms not just how your home looks, but how it feels

"Lighting is the jewelry of a room. It can elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary, and without it, even the most beautiful space falls flat." - Sarah Mitchell

Welcome from the Author

Hello, and welcome back to the Guérip Style Library!

I'm Sarah Mitchell, and today we're tackling what I consider the most underestimated element of interior design: lighting.

In my fifteen years of styling homes, I've walked into countless spaces where the furniture was beautiful, the colors were perfect, and the accessories were thoughtfully chosen, yet something felt off. Almost always, the culprit was lighting. A single overhead fixture casting harsh shadows. No layering. No warmth. No consideration for how light actually moves through a space.

Here's what I've learned: you can have a modest home with great lighting and it will feel warm and inviting. You can have a luxurious home with poor lighting and it will feel cold and unwelcoming. Light is that powerful.

The good news is that lighting is also fixable. Unlike structural changes or major furniture investments, you can dramatically improve your lighting relatively quickly and affordably. A few well-chosen lamps, some strategic bulb swaps, and perhaps a statement fixture or two can completely transform how your home feels.

This guide will teach you everything you need to know to light your home beautifully, from the technical basics to the artistic principles that designers use. Let's bring your spaces to life.

Warmly,

Sarah Mitchell Senior Home Styling Expert, Guérip

Introduction

Lighting serves two fundamental purposes in your home: function and atmosphere. You need to see what you're doing, certainly. But beyond that, light shapes how a room feels, how colors appear, how spacious or intimate a space seems, and even how you feel when you're in it.

Yet lighting is often an afterthought. We move into a home and use whatever fixtures are already there. We buy lamps based on how they look in the store without considering how they'll perform in our space. We stick with harsh overhead lights because we don't realize there's another way.

This guide will change that. You'll learn the three layers of light and why you need all of them. You'll understand the difference between warm and cool bulbs and when to use each. You'll discover how to choose fixtures that are properly scaled, strategically placed, and styled to complement your decor. And you'll gain confidence to make lighting decisions that transform your home from adequately lit to beautifully illuminated.

Part One: Understanding Light

The Three Layers of Light

Professional designers approach lighting in three layers. A well-lit room needs all three working together.

Ambient Light (General Lighting)

This is your base layer, providing overall illumination so you can move safely through a space and see generally. Think of it as the foundation.

Sources include:

• Ceiling fixtures (flush mounts, semi-flush mounts)
• Chandeliers and pendants
• Recessed lighting
• Track lighting
• Cove lighting
• Large floor lamps that illuminate upward
• Natural light from windows

Without ambient light, a room feels dark and cave-like, even if you have lamps on.

Task Light

This layer provides focused illumination for specific activities: reading, cooking, working, grooming. Task light should be brighter and more directed than ambient light.

Sources include:

• Desk lamps
• Reading lamps
• Under-cabinet kitchen lights
• Vanity lights in bathrooms
• Pendant lights over kitchen islands
• Swing-arm wall lamps

Without task light, you strain your eyes trying to work in inadequate illumination.

Accent Light (Decorative Lighting)

This layer adds drama, highlights features, and creates atmosphere. It's the least functional but often the most impactful for how a room feels.

Sources include:

• Picture lights illuminating artwork
• Uplights highlighting plants or architecture
• Candles
• String lights
• LED strips
• Spotlights on decorative objects
• Backlit shelving

Without accent light, a room lacks depth and visual interest.

The Layering Principle

A common mistake is relying on a single light source, typically one overhead fixture. This creates flat, shadowless illumination that feels institutional rather than residential.

Instead, aim for multiple light sources at different heights throughout the room:

• Overhead (ceiling fixtures)
• Eye level (wall sconces, tall floor lamps)
• Table height (table lamps, short floor lamps)
• Low level (uplights, candles, accent lights)

This creates depth, dimension, and the ability to adjust the mood by turning different lights on or off.

The Minimum Rule: Every room should have at least three light sources. Living rooms and kitchens often need five or more.

Understanding Light Bulbs

Types of Bulbs

My recommendation: LED bulbs for 90% of applications. They've improved dramatically and now offer warm, beautiful light while lasting years and saving energy.

Color Temperature

Color temperature is measured in Kelvins (K) and describes how warm or cool a light appears.

My recommendation: Use 2700K throughout most of your home for warmth and cohesion. Consider 3000K for kitchens and bathrooms where slightly brighter, cleaner light helps with tasks.

Critical tip: Never mix color temperatures in the same room. Nothing looks worse than a warm lamp next to a cool overhead light.

Brightness (Lumens)

Lumens measure how much light a bulb produces. The old wattage system (60W, 100W) referred to energy consumption, not brightness. Here's the translation:

Dimmability: Always check if a bulb is dimmable before using it with a dimmer switch. Non-dimmable LEDs will flicker or fail on dimmers.

CRI (Color Rendering Index)

CRI measures how accurately a light source reveals the true colors of objects compared to natural light. Scale is 0-100.

• CRI 90+ : Excellent (colors look accurate and vibrant)
• CRI 80-89: Good (acceptable for most home use)
• CRI below 80: Poor (colors look washed out or distorted)

My recommendation: Look for bulbs with CRI 90 or higher, especially in living areas, closets, and bathrooms where seeing true colors matters.

Part Two: Types of Light Fixtures

Ceiling Fixtures

Chandeliers

The statement piece of ceiling lighting. Chandeliers work in dining rooms, entryways, bedrooms, and even bathrooms.

Sizing guidelines:

• Add room length + width in feet. That number in inches is your chandelier diameter.
• Example: 12' x 14' room = 26" diameter chandelier
• For dining tables: chandelier should be 12" narrower than table width on each side
• Height: bottom of chandelier should hang 30-36" above dining table

Pendant Lights

Versatile fixtures that hang from the ceiling on a cord, chain, or rod. Available in every style from industrial to ornate.

Common applications:

• Over kitchen islands (typically 2-3 pendants)
• Over dining tables (single large or multiple smaller)
• In entryways
• As bedside lighting
• In bathrooms

Spacing for multiple pendants: 24-30" apart, centered over the surface below

Flush Mounts and Semi-Flush Mounts

The workhorses of ceiling lighting. Flush mounts sit directly against the ceiling; semi-flush hang slightly lower (4-8").

Best for:

• Hallways
• Closets
• Low-ceiling rooms
• Secondary lighting in larger rooms
• Bathrooms

Often overlooked in terms of style potential. Swap builder-grade flush mounts for more interesting options to instantly upgrade a space.

Recessed Lighting

Installed into the ceiling for a clean, minimal look. Excellent for general illumination but can feel cold if overused.

Best for:

• Kitchens (task lighting and general)
• Bathrooms
• Hallways
• As supplementary lighting with other fixtures

Spacing: typically 4-6 feet apart, 2-3 feet from walls

Track Lighting

Multiple adjustable heads on a single track. Modern versions look much better than older styles.

Best for:

• Highlighting artwork
• Kitchens
• Home offices
• Flexible accent lighting

Table Lamps

The most versatile and easiest lighting element to add to any room.

Sizing Guidelines:

The shade rule: When seated, you should not see the bulb. The shade bottom should be at or slightly above eye level.

Proportion: The lamp (including shade) should be roughly 1.5 times the height of the table it sits on.

Floor Lamps

Essential for rooms lacking overhead lighting and for adding height to your lighting plan.

Types:

Torchiere (Uplight) - Directs light upward, providing ambient illumination by bouncing light off the ceiling. Good for dark corners.

Reading/Task Floor Lamp - Adjustable arm directs light downward. Perfect next to reading chairs.

Arc Lamp - Curved arm extends outward, allowing the light to hang over seating. Great over sofas or in corners.

Tripod Lamp - Decorative sculptural base. More about style than function.

Club/Traditional - Classic design with shade at seated eye level. Works beside sofas and chairs.

Placement tips:

• Behind or beside seating, not in front of it
• In dark corners to balance room lighting
• Next to reading chairs for task lighting
• Behind sofas (arc lamps) to create ambient glow

Wall Sconces

Often underutilized, sconces add eye-level light and architectural interest.

Applications:

Flanking a mirror - Bathrooms, entryways, above console tables. Place 36-40" apart, centered on face height.

Flanking a bed - Alternative to table lamps, freeing nightstand space. Mount 5-6" on either side of headboard, 10-12" above mattress.

Hallway lighting - Space 6-8 feet apart, mounted at 5'6" to 6' from floor.

Accent lighting - Highlight artwork, architectural features, or create ambiance.

Hardwired vs. Plug-in: Hardwired sconces require electrical work but look cleaner. Plug-in sconces offer flexibility and easier installation.

Under-Cabinet and Strip Lighting

Hidden lighting that makes a big impact.

Kitchen under-cabinet lights:

• Illuminate countertops for task lighting
• LED strips or puck lights work well
• Install toward the front of cabinets to avoid shadows
• Use 3000K for kitchens

Shelf lighting:

• LED strips on bookshelf backs
• Inside glass-front cabinets
• Under floating shelves

Accent applications:

• Behind headboards
• Under furniture (floating vanities, beds)
• Inside closets
• Along stair treads

Part Three: Lighting Design Principles

Scale and Proportion

Lighting fixtures must be properly scaled to the room and furniture.

Fixtures too small:

• Look weak and insubstantial
• Get lost in the space
• Fail to provide adequate light
• Make the room feel incomplete

Fixtures too large:

• Overwhelm the space
• Create visual clutter
• Can hang too low
• Make rooms feel cramped

General scaling rules:

For ceiling fixtures: Add room dimensions in feet, convert to inches for diameter

• 10' x 12' room = 22" fixture
• 14' x 18' room = 32" fixture

For table lamps: Total height (with shade) should be proportional to table

• Small end table (24"): lamp 26-28"
• Medium table (28"): lamp 28-32"
• Large table/console (32"+): lamp 32-36"

For floor lamps:

• Standard height: 58-64"
• Reading lamps: 60" with adjustable arms
• Arc lamps: 72-84" at highest point

Creating Balance

Light should be balanced throughout a room, not concentrated in one area.

Height balance: Mix ceiling fixtures, eye-level light (sconces, tall floor lamps), and table-level light (table lamps).

Spatial balance: Distribute light sources throughout the room. If one side has a floor lamp, the other side might have two table lamps.

Visual weight balance: A heavy chandelier can be balanced by multiple smaller fixtures elsewhere. Don't cluster all substantial fixtures in one area.

Establishing Hierarchy

Not all light sources should be equal. Create a hierarchy:

Primary: Your main light source or statement fixture (chandelier, central pendant)

Secondary: Supporting fixtures that provide functional light (table lamps, sconces)

Tertiary: Accent lights that add depth and atmosphere (candles, uplights, LED accents)

Working with Natural Light

Artificial lighting should complement and extend natural light.

During the day:

• Maximize natural light (clean windows, light window treatments)
• Position furniture to take advantage of daylight
• Use light-colored surfaces to reflect natural light
• Supplement dark corners with artificial light

As evening approaches:

• Begin turning on lamps before full darkness
• Layer lighting gradually as natural light fades
• Create a warm transition from day to night

Direction of natural light:

• North-facing: cool, consistent light all day
• South-facing: warm, bright light (can be harsh midday)
• East-facing: bright morning light
• West-facing: warm afternoon and sunset light

Consider these qualities when choosing bulb temperatures. A north-facing room might need warmer bulbs; a south-facing room can handle cooler ones.

The Power of Dimmers

Dimmers are the single most impactful lighting upgrade you can make.

Benefits:

• Control brightness for different times and activities
• Create ambiance instantly
• Extend bulb life
• Save energy
• Smooth transition from functional to atmospheric lighting

Where to install dimmers:

• Dining room (essential)
• Living room (essential)
• Bedroom (highly recommended)
• Bathroom (recommended)
• Kitchen (optional, depending on fixture types)

Types of dimmers:

• Standard rotary or slide dimmers
• Smart dimmers (controllable via app or voice)
• Switch plate dimmers (look like regular switches)

Important: Match your dimmer to your bulb type. LED bulbs require LED-compatible dimmers.

Part Four: Room-by-Room Lighting Guide

Living Room

The living room requires the most complex lighting plan because it serves multiple functions.

Lighting needs:

• General ambient light for overall illumination
• Task light for reading
• Accent light for artwork and atmosphere
• Flexibility for entertaining vs. relaxing

Recommended fixtures:

Key tips:

• Place a lamp next to every main seating area
• Create pools of light rather than flooding the room
• Use dimmers on overhead lights
• Add accent lighting to bookcases and artwork
• Consider a statement floor lamp to add height

Common mistakes:

• Relying solely on overhead lighting
• Lamps that are too small for the furniture
• No lighting on one side of the room
• Mixing bulb temperatures

Dining Room

The dining room is about creating atmosphere that enhances meals and conversation.

Lighting needs:

• Dramatic focal point over the table
• Flattering light on faces
• Dimmable for different occasions
• Adequate light for eating without harsh shadows

Recommended fixtures:

Key tips:

• Chandelier is the star; choose one that makes a statement
• Always install on a dimmer
• Use warm bulbs (2700K) for flattering skin tones
• Light the table, not the whole room, for intimate dinners
• Add secondary sources so the chandelier doesn't work alone

Common mistakes:

• Chandelier too small for the table
• Hanging height too high or too low
• Bulbs too bright with no dimmer
• Cool-toned bulbs that make food look unappetizing

Kitchen

The kitchen is the most functionally demanding space for lighting.

Lighting needs:

• Bright task lighting for food preparation
• Ambient light for general navigation
• Accent light for atmosphere
• No shadows on work surfaces

Recommended fixtures:

Key tips:

• Layer task and ambient light; don't rely on just one
• Under-cabinet lighting is essential for countertop work
• Install pendant lights 30-36" above the island surface
• Use 3000K bulbs for a clean but warm look
• Consider dimming capability for island pendants

Common mistakes:

• No under-cabinet lighting (creates countertop shadows)
• Recessed lights too far from counters (creates shadows)
• Single ceiling fixture attempting to do everything
• Pendant lights too high or too low over island

Bedroom

The bedroom needs to transition from functional to restful.

Lighting needs:

• General ambient light for dressing and cleaning
• Task light for reading in bed
• Soft ambient light for relaxation
• Easy control from bed

Recommended fixtures:

Key tips:

• Bedside lights should be reachable from bed
• Use dimmers or three-way bulbs for flexibility
• Warm bulbs (2700K) support relaxation
• Consider swing-arm sconces to free nightstand space
• Add a lamp near the closet or dressing area

Common mistakes:

• Overhead light only, with no bedside lamps
• Bedside lamps too tall or short for reading
• Harsh overhead light with no dimmer
• No light source on the path from door to bed

Bathroom

The bathroom requires careful attention to task lighting while avoiding harsh, unflattering illumination.

Lighting needs:

• Bright, even light for grooming
• Flattering light that doesn't cast shadows on face
• Appropriate light for makeup application
• Ambient light for relaxing baths

Recommended fixtures:

Key tips:

• Side lighting on the face (sconces flanking mirror) is most flattering
• Above-mirror bars cast shadows under eyes, chin, and nose
• Use 3000K bulbs for clean, accurate light
• CRI 90+ is important for makeup application
• Consider a dimmer for relaxing baths
• All fixtures must be rated for bathroom use (damp or wet location)

Common mistakes:

• Single bar light above mirror (creates shadows)
• Bulbs too cool, making skin look sickly
• No dimming capability
• Inadequate light at the mirror
• Forgetting shower lighting

Home Office

The home office needs to support focus and productivity without eye strain.

Lighting needs:

• Task light for desk work
• Ambient light to reduce contrast between screen and room
• No glare on computer screen
• Flattering light for video calls

Recommended fixtures:

Key tips:

• Position desk lamp opposite your dominant hand to avoid shadows
• Light should not reflect on your screen
• For video calls, light your face from the front, not behind
• Use 3000-3500K for alert but comfortable light
• Avoid overhead lights directly above the screen (creates glare and unflattering shadows on video)

Common mistakes:

• Desk facing window (causes glare and backlighting on calls)
• No task lighting, relying on overhead alone
• Light source behind you on video calls
• Screen brightness mismatched with room brightness (causes eye strain)

Hallways and Entryways

These transitional spaces set the tone and need to feel welcoming.

Lighting needs:

• Adequate light for safety and navigation
• Welcoming atmosphere at entry
• Interesting design moment in an often-ignored space

Recommended fixtures:

Key tips:

• Entryway fixture is a first impression; make it count
• Space hallway fixtures 6-8 feet apart
• Use sconces to add interest in long hallways
• Consider a statement fixture if ceiling height allows
• Stair lighting improves safety and adds drama

Part Five: Fixture Selection and Style

Matching Fixtures to Your Design Style

Modern/Contemporary

• Clean geometric shapes
• Metallic finishes (chrome, brushed nickel, matte black)
• Minimal ornamentation
• Exposed bulbs or simple shades
• Linear forms

Traditional

• Classic silhouettes
• Brass, bronze, or crystal
• Fabric shades
• Ornate details
• Symmetrical arrangements

Transitional

• Blend of modern and traditional
• Simple shapes with quality materials
• Neutral metallics (brushed gold, oil-rubbed bronze)
• Restrained decoration
• Versatile and timeless

Industrial

• Exposed bulbs and hardware
• Metal shades and cages
• Raw materials (iron, steel)
• Vintage Edison-style bulbs
• Utilitarian aesthetic

Farmhouse/Rustic

• Natural materials (wood, rope, woven materials)
• Distressed finishes
• Lantern shapes
• Simple, unfussy forms
• Mixed metals with aged appearance

Coastal

• Light finishes (white, natural wood, rope)
• Glass elements
• Rattan and woven textures
• Clean, airy forms
• Blue-tinted glass

Coordinating Finishes

You don't need all fixtures to match perfectly, but they should feel cohesive.

Option 1: Single finish throughout

• Choose one metallic finish (e.g., brushed brass)
• Use it consistently in all visible fixtures
• Creates clean, unified look

Option 2: Two complementary finishes

• Select a primary finish (70%)
• Add a secondary finish (30%)
• Example: brushed brass primary with matte black accents

Option 3: Mix within a color family

• Multiple finishes in warm metallics (brass, gold, bronze)
• Or multiple finishes in cool metallics (chrome, nickel, silver)
• Creates collected-over-time feel

Finishes that pair well:

• Brass + black
• Chrome + crystal
• Bronze + copper
• Nickel + white
• Black + natural wood

Selecting Lampshades

The shade affects both the style and quality of light a lamp produces.

Shade shapes:

• Drum: modern, clean, versatile
• Empire: traditional, classic, tapered
• Bell: transitional, soft curves
• Rectangular: contemporary, architectural
• Coolie: mid-century, wide-brimmed

Shade materials:

• Paper/Parchment: diffused, warm glow
• Fabric (linen, silk): soft, elegant light
• Metal: directed light, industrial look
• Glass: various effects depending on opacity
• Woven (rattan, bamboo): textured shadows, casual feel

Shade color:

• White/cream: maximum light output, clean look
• Colored: tints the light, reduces output
• Black: dramatic, directs light up and down only
• Natural materials: warm, textured light

Sizing a shade:

• Width should be roughly twice the base width
• Height should be about 2/3 the base height
• Bottom of shade should hide the hardware (harp and socket)

Statement vs. Supporting Fixtures

Every room needs a hierarchy of fixtures.

Statement fixtures:

• Draw the eye
• Express personality
• Worth investing in
• One per room typically
• Examples: dining room chandelier, entry pendant, bedroom statement light

Supporting fixtures:

• Provide function
• Complement without competing
• Can be more budget-friendly
• Multiple per room
• Examples: table lamps, basic flush mounts, under-cabinet lights

The rule: One star, many supporting players. Too many statement pieces compete for attention.

Part Six: Smart Lighting and Technology

Smart Bulbs

Smart bulbs connect to your home network and can be controlled via app, voice, or automation.

Benefits:

• Dim without dimmer switches
• Change color temperature throughout the day
• Create scenes (movie night, dinner party, wake up)
• Control remotely
• Voice control with smart assistants
• Automate with schedules

Considerations:

• Higher cost per bulb
• Requires consistent WiFi
• Works best with smart speaker integration
• Some require a hub, others connect directly to WiFi
• Traditional switches must stay "on" for smart features to work

Smart Switches and Dimmers

Instead of smart bulbs, you can install smart switches that control regular bulbs.

Benefits:

• Use any bulb you prefer
• Traditional switch still works
• No bulb replacement when smart features become outdated
• Often more reliable than smart bulbs
• Works with existing multi-bulb fixtures

Considerations:

• Requires installation (may need electrician)
• Neutral wire often required
• Upfront cost higher than smart bulbs
• Can't change individual bulb colors

Creating Lighting Scenes

Scenes are preset lighting configurations you can activate with one command.

Example scenes:

Circadian Lighting

Our bodies respond to light temperature. Cooler, brighter light promotes alertness; warmer, dimmer light supports relaxation and sleep.

Circadian lighting approach:

• Morning: Gradually increasing brightness, neutral to cool temperature
• Midday: Bright, slightly cool light for productivity
• Evening: Dimming, warming as night approaches
• Night: Very warm, dim light before bed

Many smart lighting systems can automate this transition throughout the day.

Part Seven: Practical Considerations

Electrical Planning

For renters:

• Focus on plug-in fixtures (table lamps, floor lamps, plug-in sconces)
• Use plug-in pendant light kits to hang fixtures without hardwiring
• Add battery-operated puck lights for under-cabinet lighting
• Use smart plugs to control existing lamps

For homeowners:

• Consider adding electrical outlets where you'll want lamps
• Install dimmer switches in key rooms
• Add hardwired fixtures where overhead lighting is needed
• Plan lighting during any renovation

When to hire an electrician:

• Installing new ceiling fixtures
• Adding new circuits
• Installing hardwired wall sconces
• Replacing dimmer switches (if you're uncomfortable)
• Any work in the electrical panel

Bulb Replacement Strategy

Standardize your bulbs for easier replacement:

• Choose one brand you trust
• Select one color temperature for most of your home
• Keep spares on hand
• Note lumens needed for each fixture

Energy Considerations

LED advantages:

• Use 75-80% less energy than incandescent
• Last 15-25 times longer
• Produce less heat
• Payback on cost within 1-2 years

Further savings:

• Use dimmers (dimmed lights use less energy)
• Turn off lights in unoccupied rooms
• Use timers for outdoor lights
• Consider occupancy sensors for closets and bathrooms

Safety Notes

• Use correct wattage bulbs (check fixture maximum)
• Ensure bathroom fixtures are rated for damp/wet locations
• Don't overload circuits with multiple high-wattage fixtures
• Replace damaged cords immediately
• Keep flammable materials away from hot bulbs
• Secure floor lamp cords to prevent tripping

Part Eight: Troubleshooting Common Lighting Problems

"My room feels too dark"

Solutions:

• Add more light sources, not brighter bulbs
• Include a lamp in every dark corner
• Use light-colored lampshades
• Add uplighting to bounce light off ceiling
• Check that furniture isn't blocking light
• Clean bulbs and shades (dust reduces output significantly)

"My room feels too harsh"

Solutions:

• Add dimmers to overhead lights
• Switch to warmer color temperature (2700K)
• Add more lamps and reduce overhead reliance
• Use fabric or paper shades instead of metal/glass
• Layer light sources to reduce contrast
• Turn off overhead entirely and use lamps only

"My lighting feels flat and boring"

Solutions:

• Add accent lighting (uplights, picture lights)
• Include different heights of light sources
• Create pools of light rather than even illumination
• Add candles for living warmth
• Consider a statement fixture as focal point
• Vary the brightness levels across the room

"Shadows fall on my face in the bathroom mirror"

Solutions:

• Add sconces on either side of the mirror
• Increase light output if relying on above-mirror light
• Choose a mirror with integrated side lighting
• Ensure lights are positioned at face height, not just above

"I can't find the right size fixture"

Solutions:

• Measure carefully before shopping
• Draw the dimensions on paper and tape to ceiling to visualize
• When between sizes, go larger (fixtures look smaller once installed)
• Consider clustered pendants instead of one large fixture
• Look at commercial or hospitality fixtures for bigger options

"My lamps don't give off enough light"

Solutions:

• Check bulb lumens (may need higher output)
• Use white or cream shades instead of dark
• Ensure shade isn't too thick or opaque
• Clean bulb and shade
• Consider three-way bulbs for adjustable brightness
• Add additional lamps rather than over-brightening one

"All my lights are the wrong color"

Solutions:

• Check Kelvin rating on current bulbs
• Replace all bulbs with consistent temperature
• 2700K for warm, residential feel
• Purchase from same manufacturer for consistency
• Test one bulb before replacing all

Conclusion: Light as a Design Tool

Lighting is perhaps the most powerful tool in interior design, yet it's often the last thing considered. I hope this guide has shown you that thoughtful lighting isn't complicated. It simply requires the same attention and intention you give to choosing furniture, colors, and accessories.

Start by observing how light moves through your home throughout the day. Notice where you wish you had more light, where the light feels harsh, where there are dark corners that dampen the mood. Then, layer in solutions: a lamp here, a dimmer there, perhaps a statement fixture that brings joy every time you see it.

Remember that lighting isn't static. As seasons change, as your activities shift, as day turns to night, your lighting should adapt. Give yourself options with multiple sources and dimmers. Think of lighting as flexible, adjustable, and personal.

Your home deserves to look and feel its best. And often, the difference between a space that feels "fine" and one that feels wonderful is simply a matter of light.

This guide is part of the Guérip Home Styling Series by Sarah Mitchell.

More guides in the series:

• The Art of Soft Furnishings
• The Art of Decorative Objects
• The Complete Guide to Layering Rugs
• Window Treatments: From Basics to Beautiful
• Color Theory for the Everyday Home
• Seasonal Refresh: A Room-by-Room Transition Guide

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

The Three Layers of Light

Bulb Quick Guide

Minimum Light Sources Per Room

Fixture Height Guide

Essential Lighting Starter Kit

For each main room, aim for:

Living Room

• 1 overhead fixture (or 4-6 recessed lights)
• 2-4 table lamps
• 1 floor lamp
• Accent lighting (optional but recommended)
• Dimmer switch

Bedroom

• 1 overhead fixture
• 2 bedside lamps (or sconces)
• 1 floor lamp or additional table lamp
• Dimmer switch

Kitchen

• General ceiling lights
• Under-cabinet task lights
• Pendant(s) over island (if applicable)

About Guérip

Guérip is dedicated to helping you create spaces that reflect your unique style and support your everyday life. Through expert guidance, curated collections, and practical inspiration, we believe that beautiful living should be accessible to everyone.

Visit us at www.guerip.com to explore our full range of home styling resources.

About the Author

Sarah Mitchell is Guérip's Senior Home Styling Expert with over fifteen years of experience in interior design and home staging. She has been featured in leading home and lifestyle publications and is known for her approachable, practical advice that helps real people create beautiful spaces on real budgets. Sarah believes that every home has potential - it just needs the right touches to shine.

Connect with Sarah:

• Email: sarah.mitchell@guerip.com
• Instagram: @sarahmitchell_guerip

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Happy styling!