“Task lighting is directed lighting,” says New York City designer Eve Robinson. But rather than drawing attention to a particular item, it is used, as its name implies, to illuminate surfaces intended for work, such as cooking, reading or studying. Like accent lighting, task lighting focuses on a particular space. With its cheeky pairing of transparent plastic and ornate baroque design, the Bourgie lamp comments on modern consumerism while also serving as a playful statement piece. Beautiful whether on and off, it’s perfect for over a dining table or hung from a high ceiling. Sporting 72 copper leaves, the Artichoke lamp emits a glow without glare for soft yet radiant accent lighting. With an adjustable stem, it can illuminate a piece of furniture or other objects beneath it. Below, we present some iconic examples.ĭesigned by the Castiglioni brothers in 1962, the Arco lamp provides vivid overhead light. Accent Lighting FixturesĪccent lighting can be produced by directional fixtures or lamps, along with other light sources. This type of lighting creates a dramatic effect and adds depth to a room. Similar to the way museums highlight paintings, it can be used to draw attention to an artwork, plant, bookshelf or interesting architectural element. In addition to ambient illumination, they can provide upward or downward directional lighting, or both.Īccent lighting focuses on a specific area or item within a room. Usually installed in pairs or groups, sconces are decorative fixtures used to light hallways, or placed on either side of a door or bed. Hanging over tables or from high ceilings as detailed centerpieces, they add decorative character and detail to a space. Able to double as task lighting, table lamps can illuminate darker corners of a room.Ĭhandeliers contribute to ambient lighting while making a statement. Integrated into a room’s overall design, a floor lamp can create an intimate atmosphere and introduce a stylish, sculptural element.Ĭombining floor and table lamps can produce a lovely wash of ambient light across a room. In addition to illuminating large spaces, floor lamps can light specific seating areas and serve as task lighting. Below, we look at several types of fixtures. Many light sources can create ambient lighting. “It really depends on the furnishings, but we use mid-century French creations, one-of-a-kind pieces that enhance the design of the room.” Ambient Lighting Fixtures “Ambient light sets the tone in the room by anchoring a space with a dramatic chandelier, a desk space with an unexpected vintage desk lamp, seating with notable floor lamps like a Giacometti or any collectible artist,” she says. We asked Tara Shaw, in New Orleans, how she uses ambient light in her interiors. Best for setting the overall mood of a space, it serves as background light for daily activity. Click on the links below to jump to their respective sections.Īlso known as general lighting, ambient lighting illuminates an entire room with a uniform brightness. There are three main types of home lighting, all serving different purposes. In addition, we’ve asked design experts to address some of the most common questions when it comes to choosing the right illumination for a room.

There are many different kinds of fixtures and illumination to consider.īelow, we present the three types of lighting, the best fixtures for achieving each and examples of beautifully lit spaces. Selecting the right light, however, isn’t all about brightness. Ample lighting paired with enticing design creates an elevated, inviting atmosphere, helping set the desired mood. Often, having the right light fixture is key to creating an attractive, radiant room. Lighting is an essential part of any interior design project. This dining area in a New York City loft, designed by Evan Edward Interiors, is illuminated by lamps and a sculptural pendant light.

Ambient light fixtures