The Right Lighting For Your Bedroom

Your bedroom is your sanctuary. It’s the place where, above all else, you rest and recharge every night. But it’s easy to forget that the modern bedroom is also used for so much more than sleep. It’s where you might read, get dressed, get romantic, chill out and even work. So it’s crucial to get your lighting scheme just right. Here’s how:

Image via @elizabethlawsondesign

Take it to Task

Task lights, as the name suggests, are perfect for targeted tasks (i.e. catching up on the latest page turner without disturbing your sleeping buddy). For a more traditional look, place an adjustable reading light or a small table lamp that’s around 24” to 27” tall on each bedside table. We also love the look of space-saving sconces or even a stylish pair of pendants.

Image via Apartment Therapy

Get in the Mood

Ambient lights, which can be anything from chandeliers to recessed lighting, are the best way to evenly illuminate a room. Whichever option you choose, you’ll want to make sure it’s fitted with a dimmer, so you can easily adjust the intensity of light according to your needs and mood—and save energy while you’re at it.

Go for Accents

Here’s where table or floor lamps come into the picture. The purpose of an accent light is to illuminate areas other than the bedside, whether it’s a dressing area or a reading nook. Got a favorite piece of artwork or furniture you’d like to highlight? Accent lighting is the way to go.

Keep It Light

While dark lamp shades may look nice in the store or in the carefully edited website picture, in real life they wind up appearing gloomy and will make your bedroom feel dark and closed-in. In the bedroom, always go for light, neutral shades that will softly diffuse light, and avoid anything too opaque.

Remember the Closet

Blindly groping for your clothes in the dark recesses of your wardrobe is no fun. That’s why we recommend installing LED lighting in your bedroom closet. Not only will you be able to actually see your clothes, it’s also energy efficient.

Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle. Image by @eacourts

Stay Natural

While lamps and light fixtures are obviously essential, don’t forget to make the most of natural light. Make sure your curtains have a tie-back option so you can let in as much light as possible during the day. Also, hanging a large mirror on the wall opposite a window is a good trick for making your bedroom feel sunnier.

Make a Style Statement

Lighting is a great way to add a splash of style to the bedroom. From shimmering chandeliers to industrial pendants, the options are endless. Pay attention to scale, making sure your light fixture is neither too small nor overpowering, and that its shape and color complement the rest of your bedroom decor. Otherwise, let loose and have fun with it.

As you can see, when it comes to illuminating this multifunctional room, a layered approach works best. Follow these guidelines and we’re pretty sure your future looks bright!