15 Lighting Ideas to Brighten Up Your Space

If I had to choose one rule for my home, it would be to ban overhead lighting. It’s harsh, looks like a doctor’s office, and lacks warmth or comfort. Not to mention, it can make you look like a creepy ghost, thanks to the shadows it casts overhead. In other words, it’s not cute.

Featured image of Brian and Jessie De Lowe’s California farm.

15 Lighting Ideas to Brighten Up Your Space

Interior lighting trends for 2024 are all about a soft glow no matter what room you decide to be in. Layered lighting, or using different light sources in the same space, is InChanging your decor and furniture is one way to freshen up your space, of course, but lighting can completely transform the mood and shouldn’t be overlooked. If you’re looking to give your space a warm new vibe, check out these room-by-room home lighting ideas.

Kitchen

Hanging light

Pendant lights aren’t a new idea when it comes to home lighting. They’re almost always seen above a kitchen island. But this year, opting for a pendant light with personality is definitely the way to go. In 2024, sculptural pieces, oversized pendants, woven materials (hello rattan!), and retro-style fixtures are all trending. Not sure what style to go for? The beauty of pendant lights is that they’re easy to install and remove, so they can change as easily as your style evolves.

Small table lamps

Not only is a small lamp on your kitchen counter adorable, but the light is also great. A mini lamp can be plugged in, or you can opt for a battery-powered one. I have one from Target tucked away in the corner of my kitchen, equipped with a smart bulb that automatically turns on at sunrise each morning. The soft glow of the lamp is much nicer than the bright, overhead light my kitchen used to have, especially in the early morning. There’s nothing like the warm glow of a mini lamp when I’m making my morning coffee or mixing up some pre-workout before heading to the gym.

Another plus? Mini lights don’t have to be expensive. Just make sure to place them somewhere where they won’t get splashed by food while cooking or prepping!

Kick lighting

Bedside lamps are great for late-night snackers or early risers. These lights can be installed at the bottom of your kitchen cabinets, illuminating the floor so you can see where you’re going without turning on a brighter, more intense light. Refilling your water bottle before going back to bed just got a whole lot more enjoyable! You can install it yourself with an LED light strip with an adhesive backing.

Backyard

Cordless table lamps

I’ve been seeing mini cordless table lamps all over social media, and they’re always a big part of outdoor table decor. These mini lamps are battery-operated and adorable, and most have brightness settings that can be changed by simply tapping the base of the lamp. They emit a soft, subtle glow and create a cozy ambiance, much like a restaurant would. Think of them like a candle in the center of your table, only a mini lamp instead!

Fairy lights

There’s nothing more charming than string lights overhead when you’re relaxing outside. Transform your outdoor space with LED string lights. Be generous and add as many as you like: let them be your only source of outdoor lighting. Solar-powered LED string lights are also a great home lighting idea, especially if you live somewhere with reliable sunshine. They don’t need to be plugged in and you don’t even have to turn them on and off. I have a string or two on my balcony and they create a magical ambiance, even just admiring them indoors.

Path lighting

Pathway lights aren’t just beautiful, they’re also great for safety purposes. Dot your garden paths with lights so you and your guests can see where they’re going. You can even get smart path lights with motion sensors for added safety and energy efficiency. Increasingly, we’re seeing homeowners put as much effort into their outdoor spaces as they do their indoor spaces, and path lights can help guide you through your own little garden oasis.

Bathroom

Backlit mirrors

There are many bathroom lighting ideas out there, but one that is making waves this year is illuminated bathroom mirrors. Backlit mirrors cast an even light across your entire face, making it easier to apply makeup and get a very accurate reflection of yourself. These mirrors feature lights that surround the perimeter and give the entire bathroom a polished and unique look.

Statement Chandeliers

If you think chandeliers are reserved for entryways and dining rooms, think again. These stylish fixtures are now making their way into bathrooms. Is there anything more chic than a chandelier over a bathtub? Make sure to install them with warm white bulbs and even better if they can also be equipped with a dimmer!

Living room inspired lighting

Since the pandemic, bathrooms have become more cozy. Creating a spa-like environment is a priority for many. Today, we’re seeing bathrooms become even more inviting with lighting that you’d traditionally see in a living room. Think table lamps on countertops and vanities, as well as pretty pendants and sconces. Don’t be afraid to get creative and layer your lighting to make your bathroom a place you want to spend time in. It’s so much easier to romanticize your morning routine when you’re surrounded by soft light!

Living room

Sculptural floor lamps

Living room lighting ideas include a mix of ambient, task and accent lighting throughout your space. Floor lamps are perfect for living rooms and make a statement whether they are on or off. Opting for a sculptural floor lamp will make a statement, while also providing a warm glow, making your living room all the more welcoming.

Bedside lamp

Instead of settling for a single large ceiling light, a small collection of table lamps will create a warm and welcoming ambiance. Place them on side tables or cabinets nearby and don’t forget to place one in a reading nook or cozy corner. The soft, soothing light is ideal for relaxing, lounging and chatting with friends, perfect for a living room.

Gallery Lights

Gallery lights can be placed above your framed artwork, providing a subtle glow to your favorite pieces. Using light to highlight certain aspects of your home’s design can help draw attention to specific spaces. In addition to artwork, picture lights are perfect above shelves or in place of where you would place a sconce.

Bedroom

Wall lights

Bedroom lighting ideas are all about creating a calming environment. Layered lighting is key, and sconces above nightstands create a warm, ambient light that’s perfect for bedtime. Wall sconces mount to the wall and are ideal if you want a little more space on your nightstand surface. Choose a sconce over a bedside lamp to maximise space and also embrace your own personal style.

Salt lamps

Himalayan salt lamps emit a warm, subtle glow that is perfect for bedtime. A soft, warm light can help you relax and unwind after the day, while also promoting a good night’s sleep. They look great on a dresser or nightstand, or if you prefer, they even come with night lights and salt lamp bulbs.

Headboard lighting

Ambient lighting behind your headboard? Yes, please! Last year, Sleep Number launched beds with built-in lighting features, such as reading lights and headboard lights. You can adjust the brightness of the headboard lights to help you relax and even wake up with ease. The lights are located at the back of the headboard, so the light is emitted onto the wall behind it, creating a warm effect. If you’re not in the market for a new headboard, installing LED strip lights can also give you a similar effect!