Guide to Choosing the Right Lighting

03 June 2025

Lighting is one of the most powerful and often overlooked elements in interior design. When people think of interior design, they usually picture furniture, colors, and décor. But lighting? That’s the secret sauce. It doesn’t just help you see, it creates atmosphere, sets the mood, and brings your space to life. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading a single room, this beginner’s guide will help you choose the right lighting for your home with confidence.

Why Lighting Matters in Interior Design

Over the years, I’ve seen how lighting can completely change the feel of a room. A small space can feel bigger, a cold room can feel cozy, and bland walls can suddenly look textured and alive all with the right lighting. It’s not just functional; it’s emotional. And honestly, It’s magic.

The Three Basic Types of Lighting

To create a well-lit and balanced space, interior designers typically use a combination of three lighting types:

1. Ambient Lighting (General Lighting )

This is your room's main light source. It could be a ceiling-mounted fixture, a large pendant, or recessed lighting. Its purpose is to provide even illumination across the space.

Examples:

• Ceiling chandeliers

• Recessed ceiling lights

• Flush-mount fixtures

Tip: Always start with ambient lighting, it sets the foundation for your room’s illumination.

2. Task Lighting

Task lighting is focused and practical. It helps you perform specific activities such as reading, cooking, or working.

Examples:

• Desk lamps

• Under-cabinet lighting in kitchens

• Vanity lights in bathrooms

Tip: Use task lighting in areas where you need precision or concentration.

3. Accent Lighting

Accent lighting adds drama and highlights key features of a room. Think of it as the "spotlight" that draws attention to artwork, plants, or architectural elements.

Examples:

• Wall sconces

• Track lighting

• Picture lights

Tip: Accent lighting works best when used sparingly and strategically.

Choosing the Right Fixture for Each Room

Each room has unique lighting needs. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Living Room

• Combine a central chandelier or ceiling light with floor and table lamps.

• Use dimmers to adjust brightness for different times of day.

Kitchen

• Install bright task lighting over counters and under cabinets.

• Pendant lights over an island offer both form and function.

Bedroom

• Use soft, ambient lighting with bedside lamps for reading.

• Avoid overly bright or harsh fixtures.

Bathroom

• Combine overhead lighting with task lighting around mirrors.

• Choose fixtures that minimize shadows.

  
  

How to Pick the Right Bulbs

Bulbs matter more than you think! Pay attention to:

• Wattage – Indicates brightness (though lumens are more accurate for this).

• Color Temperature – Measured in Kelvins (K), it affects the tone and feel of a room:

  -Warm White (2000K- 3000K)

  Soft, cozy light ideal for creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. Commonly used in hotels, restaurants, bedrooms, and ambient or decorative outdoor lighting.

  -Natural White (3100K -4500K)

  A brighter, more vibrant light often used in bathrooms, offices, garages, classrooms, and street lighting. It strikes a balance between warm and cool tones.

  -White/ Daylight (4600K-6500K)

  Crisp, cool lighting perfect for high-functioning spaces like warehouses, commercial bathrooms, display areas, halls, car parks, and large outdoor areas. Mimics daylight and enhances visibility.

• CRI (Color Rendering Index) – A higher CRI (80+) provides more accurate and vivid color representation. Ideal for areas where color perception matters, like kitchens and dressing rooms.

  
  

  

   LED Colour temperature chart

Final Thoughts

If there's one thing I want you to take from this: lighting can truly change how your home feels.

When I design a room, I always think about how people should feel in that space, not just what they should see. Warm lighting has a special place in my heart. It’s why I often use it in bedrooms, living rooms, and yes restaurants too. That soft glow just makes you want to stay a little longer.

So start by layering your lighting, choose the right bulbs for each mood, and think of lighting as part of your design not just an afterthought.

Thanks for reading and happy designing 💡

Sarina

Founder/ Interior Designer

Cosy Ghar Interior