Read on for tips and tricks for lighting your home like a pro.

Hang mirrors to reflect and bounce around available natural light.

And be sure to clean windows regularly to brighten your space.

lighting your home

Design byTyler Karu/ Photo byErin Little

Want more design inspiration?

Layer Lighting Sources

Caitlin Higgins forEmily Henderson Design/ Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

Good lighting is always layered.

Consider a space-saving mirror with integrated lighting in a small bathroom.

home lighting tips

Desiree Burns Interiors

Understanding the Kelvin Scale

The Kelvin scale measures light temperature.

Choose light bulbs between 2700K and 3000K on the Kelvin scale to add warm ambient light to any room.

Or use pendant lights to anchor a dining table, kitchen island, or peninsula.

living room lighting tips

Caitlin Higgins forEmily Henderson Design/ Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

Choose complementary but not matching fixtures to subtly define each space.

Revamp an existing chandelier or sconce with lampshades to soften the light quality.

Highlight Special Room Features

Use accent lighting to highlight specific objects or room features.

bathroom lighting tips

Tina Ramchandani Creative

Or highlight architectural features such as crown moldings or coffered ceilings.

Showcase Candlelight and Firelight

Jessica Nelson Design/Carina Skrobecki Photography

Augment existing lighting with candlelight and firelight.

Candles and a working fireplace will create a warming and cozy feel that will complement existing lighting.

modern farmhouse guest bedroom

Design byMarie Flanigan Interiors/ Photo byJulie Soefer

Swap in LED candles or an eco-friendly fireplace for a more sustainable alternative.

Avoid these common pitfalls for the best result.

design rules for lighting your home

Erin Williamson Design

light fixtures to define zones in open-plan kitchen

Louis Duncan-He Designs

filter light with lampshades

Design byMarie Flanigan Interiors/ Photo by Julie Soefer

backlit home bar lighting ideas

Louis Duncan-He Designs

LED kitchen lighting

Design byMaydan Architects/ Photo by Peter Kubilis

living room with colored LED smart lighting

onurdongel / Getty Images

lighting your home with candles

Jessica Nelson Design/Carina Skrobecki Photography

decorative home lighting ideas

Alvin Wayne