Posted by Andrea Durway
The Importance of Good Lighting in the Home
If there’s one design element that can completely transform the look and feel of a home, it’s lighting. Whether you’re staging your home to sell, remodeling, or just wanting to create a cozier space, good lighting plays a huge role in both aesthetics and function — and it can even impact your home’s value.
The Three Layers of Lighting: Why They Matter
1. Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting is your overall illumination — think overhead fixtures, recessed lighting, or a large statement chandelier. This layer sets the tone and ensures that the entire room is comfortably lit.
2. Task Lighting
Task lighting is focused illumination that helps with specific activities like cooking, reading, or working. Under-cabinet kitchen lights, desk lamps, and vanity lights are all examples of task lighting.
3. Accent Lighting
Accent lighting adds dimension and highlights architectural details or decor, like wall sconces, picture lights, or uplighting for plants. This layer brings character and drama to a space.
Flexible and Adaptable Lighting
Life changes — so should your lighting. Flexible lighting solutions, like dimmer switches and smart bulbs, allow you to adjust the mood and function of a room instantly. Smart home lighting systems even let you control color temperature and brightness from your phone or with a simple voice command.
High vs. Low Price Options
You don’t have to spend a fortune to achieve beautiful lighting. Here are some ways to make impactful changes at different price points:
High-End Upgrades:
- Designer chandeliers or pendant lights
- Custom LED strip lighting in shelves or coves
- Smart home lighting systems with scene control
Budget-Friendly Fixes:
- Swapping outdated fixtures with affordable modern ones from budget retailers
- Look for handmade options online or at local shops. Sometimes Perennial Community Workshop has classes on creating your own upcycled lighting
- Plug-in sconces (no hardwiring required!)
- Adding battery-operated under-cabinet lighting or puck lights
- Upgrading to LED bulbs with adjustable color temperatures
The Impact on Home Value
Updated lighting doesn’t just make your home more comfortable — it can also boost resale value. Homes with modern, well-layered lighting are perceived as more updated and well-maintained. Buyers notice fresh light fixtures, especially in key areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Even simple updates like swapping dated ceiling fans for sleek fixtures or adding pendant lights over kitchen islands can make a home feel more high-end.
The Bottom Line
Great lighting is one of the most cost-effective ways to enhance your home’s appearance, function, and value. Whether you’re ready to invest in designer fixtures or just want to make a few small changes, layering ambient, task, and accent lighting — with the flexibility to adapt — can completely transform your space.
Looking for ideas on which rooms to update first? Kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms offer the biggest bang for your buck when it comes to lighting improvements. And remember: good lighting never goes out of style.
