Lighting Your Bedroom

When lighting a bedroom, you will want to create an overall atmosphere of quiet relaxation, while providing some bright spots for reading and other activities. A combination of general and task lighting that takes into account the age and lifestyle of the occupant(s) is needed. Remember, dimming controls give you the flexibility to vary the light to suit different moods and activities.

Lighting Techniques for the Bedroom

General, ambient lighting can be provided by ceiling fixtures, chandeliers, fan lights, recessed downlights or wall sconces, giving you the illumination you need to dress and see into drawers and closets.

Photo Credit: Corbett Lighting

For closets, recessed or close-to-the-ceiling fixtures give you good general lighting without taking up much space.

Closets are a good place to save energy by using compact fluorescent bulbs.

Photo Credit: Broan NuTune

Next to the bed, portable lamps provide plenty of light for reading, or you can install swing-arm wall lamps to free up the space on your end tables.

Another idea is to hang pendants next to the bed or install recessed downlights in the ceiling over the bed.

Photo Credit: LBL Lighting

A chandelier adds an unexpected element to this room's design.

Chandeliers add style and a decorative focal point to almost any room in the house. They have traditionally been used in the dining room but are now commonly used in the bedroom as well.

Photo Credit: Kichler Lighting

Find more advice for lighting every area of your home:

Kitchen Dining Room Bathroom Bedroom Home Office Outdoors Other Home Areas