So, your living space isn’t exactly Versailles. Even if the ceilings are low, windows are few and far between, and architecture leaves much to be desired, you can still transform your home into a bright, artful, and interesting space.
Just look to the light.
No matter how boring or boxy a room might be, lighting can always give it color, texture, and form. Here are some ways you can use lighting to turn a drab space into something really special:
1. Wash a wall with light.
Wall washing is a lighting technique that can add beauty and visual interest almost anywhere – it uses recessed cans with wall wash trims to evenly illuminate walls. This technique will call attention to texture on your walls, and will perfectly highlight wall hangings. Wall washing is especially helpful for smaller rooms – by emphasizing the vertical surfaces, your space will appear to expand. Check out this article to learn the details.
2. Get creative with accent lighting.
If your room is literally just a box, accent lighting will save you from the design doldrums. First, make sure you have light coming from different angles throughout your room – downlights, floor lamps, cabinet lights, desk lamps – this will give a boring, flat room more depth and dimension. Next, use accent lights to play up interesting objects in your room. For instance, a puck light used to highlight a small sculpture on your shelf can really play up the angles. Finally, consider colored accent lights for a surprising, unconventional impact.
3. Light up your ceilings.
Nothing makes a room look small and dingy like unwanted shadows, especially around the ceiling or in the corners. If you have tall cabinets or shelving in the room in question, add some lighting on top of them, pointing up. This technique, often called over cabinet lighting, will make your ceilings seem higher. Linear lights are the best to use for this because they’ll always provide an even sheet of light.
4. Go bold with your fixtures.
When nothing about your room makes a statement, adding a big, bold light fixture might just do the trick. Consider a large floor lamp or a vibrant hanging light that complements your personal style. These fixtures will always add interest to an otherwise flat, tired space. Embrace drama by controlling these light fixtures with a dimmer switch. When you have the ability to change the light levels in your room with the touch of a button, your space will come alive.
