The 5 Types of Lighting that Can Make or Break Interiors

Arguably, lighting is the most important component of interior design. I’m not sure I’d go that far but it’s not far off either.

Let’s put it this way. Bad lighting can ruin the most meticulous design room. On the flip side, well-planned lighting can dramatically improve a mediocre room.

So yeah, lighting is key for interiors. At least at JD Elite Interiors, we think so. While I won’t go into the specifics of lighting fixtures, they too have a considerable impact on the quality of a room’s design.

Below is our list of the main types of lighting for interiors. Note that lighting in this context is different than lights, as in types of lightbulbs or light placement (i.e. ceiling lights). I’ll save those lighting topics for another article.

One light, multiple purposes

These days, individual lights can serve multiple purposes. In fact, most do and a skilled interior design North Vancouver plans for that. For example, pendant lights should serve as both task and decorative lighting.

Here are the five main types of lighting throughout a home (interior)

1. Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting provides general, overall light to a room and is the foundation of a well-lit space. This type of lighting helps to create a warm and inviting atmosphere and is typically provided by overhead fixtures, such as ceiling lights, chandeliers, or track lighting.

The ambiance that lighting provides is a result of all the lighting in a room working together to create a particular ambient mood. FYI those same lights can also be used for other functions such as task lighting.

2. Task Lighting

Task lighting is used to illuminate specific areas of the room where specific activities take place, such as reading, cooking, or working. This type of lighting is typically provided by table lamps, floor lamps, or under-cabinet lights.

3. Accent Lighting

Accent lighting is used to highlight specific features of the room, such as artwork, architectural details, or furniture. This type of lighting is typically provided by wall sconces, track lighting, or recessed lights.

The image example above showcases stunning accent lighting built into shelving. Seriously, this is a simple, yet highly effective way to dramatically improve the design of any room.

4. Decorative Lighting

Decorative lighting is used to add a touch of style and personality to a room. This type of lighting can come in the form of table lamps, floor lamps, or chandeliers, and is typically used to create a focal point or to add a touch of elegance to a space.

5. Dimmer Lighting

Dimmer lighting is used to control the brightness of a room and to create a sense of intimacy and warmth. Dimmer switches can be used to adjust the brightness of overhead lights, table lamps, or floor lamps, and are a great way to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Dimmers are used on many types of lighting and lightbulbs. Thanks to today’s lighting technology, dimming capabilities are available for most lights.

Dimming tech is just that in the smart home context as well. While it’s still a good idea to place dimmers on the wall (old school), you can also take your lighting tech to the next level with apps that can control all lighting throughout a room or home, including the dimming of the lighting.

Accent lighting in shelves for lighting ambiance

Our Lighting Solutions

We take lighting very seriously as part of our design and decorating services when planning and implementing designs for clients. It starts with our sketches followed by our 3D renderings and realized in its entirety with the implementation of the makeover or renovation.