Choosing the Right Lighting for Your Bedroom

Bedroom lighting

Whether your bedroom is a small room or a grand master suite your probably use it for more than just sleeping. Dark bedrooms are, of course, essential for when you’re catching up on your zzz’s but when you’re using your bedroom for other activities you need the right kind of lighting.

These days, the majority of bedrooms are more than just a place you retire to slumber, they are romantic getaways, or relaxing sanctuaries where people like to read, meditate or simply unwind with their partners, so when it comes to choosing the right kind of lighting it is worth taking some time to consider what you need for the amount of time you spend in the boudoir and the kind of activities you participate in.

Bedroom lighting ranges from basic to bold, dimmed to dramatic. To help you properly light your bedroom and to help you choose what’s best for you, go to your local lighting showroom and get expert advice.

Size matters

Another point worth noting is that bedrooms are also getting larger. This means that you may need different types of lighting to illuminate different areas of your bedroom. This is why it is often important to use different layers of diffused light, so that you have enough light to focus on particular areas as well as to permeate the corners and the edges. To accomplish this adequately, you need both overhead and portable lighting throughout the room.

Before buying bedroom lighting, first determine the size of the room. Take your room measurements, along with outlet locations and furniture placement to a lighting showroom. The experts there can help you fill in with just the right light. Consider scale.

Bedrooms typically have lower 8- or 9-foot-tall ceilings. Avoid fixtures with longer bodies in favour of shorter or flush-mounted fixtures. You want a certain level for reading and enough lighting for dressing. You also need light to be high enough to reach all the areas.

Think practically

Types and styles of lighting depend on bedroom occupants. You and your partner need individually controlled reading lights on each side of your bed. Your children require extra light for homework areas.

Your baby’s nursery requires an installed dimmer or subdued lamp that allows you to check on your little one without waking her up. Decide what you want to do in the room, and then choose appropriate lighting.

Home computers, sewing machines and exercise equipment in the bedroom need directed lighting. Sitting areas beg for softer, shaded fixtures. Dressing tables demand brighter light.

To update an existing bedroom, replace a flush-mount ceiling fixture with a newer design or a ceiling fan. Change or add portable or table lamps for a quick, inexpensive face lift. Up-lighting from the floor to highlight a plant or potted tree adds interest, as does directional lighting.

Don’t forget that bedroom lighting purchases are usually driven by the existing furniture décor. Bedroom furniture is a major purchase and lighting choices should coordinate with that style.

See Also
Table lamp
Classic Lighting Essentials for the Home
Matching floor lamp and table lamp
Matching Floor & Table Lamps