Lighting does more than brighten a room—it sets the tone for how a space feels and functions. Whether you’re looking to add a cozy glow, a bit of drama, or a refined sense of style, the right fixture can transform your home. And just like furniture or paint colours, lighting is personal. It should reflect how you live and what you love. If you’re not sure where to begin, here are some helpful ideas to guide you toward your perfect lighting.
Think about the mood you want to create
Before you shop, pause and consider the feeling you’re after. Is it calm and quiet? Bright and energizing? Romantic? Relaxed? Lighting can evoke all kinds of emotions. Soft lighting with milk glass or opaque shades diffuses a gentle glow, perfect for unwinding at the end of the day. On the other hand, clear glass shades or exposed bulbs feel lively and bold, ideal for a kitchen or dining room.
Choose a shape that speaks to you
Lighting doesn’t just light up a room—it contributes to the design story. Look at silhouettes that catch your eye. A dome shade might feel clean and simple, while a drum shape adds subtle softness. Sculptural fixtures can bring an artistic element to a room, especially in entryways or over a dining table. If you gravitate toward curves, angles, or a more architectural look, that’s a great place to start in finding your perfect lighting match.
Look to your finishes for clues
Do you love warm metals, deep tones, or a crisp black-and-white contrast? Your favourite finishes can help guide your lighting choices. A vintage-inspired brass fixture, for instance, adds character and warmth. A matte black light in a white room offers graphic appeal. If you like to mix materials—say, wood and metal together—look for fixtures that do the same to add texture and depth. The combination of finishes can be what makes a piece feel like your version of perfect lighting.
Match the lighting to how you live
Form matters, but so does function. If you read in bed, you’ll want a bedside lamp with the right height and brightness. If your kitchen gets used from morning coffee to evening cleanup, under-cabinet lighting or adjustable pendants can help. The best lighting solutions don’t just look great, they work for your everyday routines. And when the design suits your life, that’s when you know you’ve found your perfect lighting style.
Don’t forget the layering
Layered lighting is key to creating dimension. Try combining ambient lighting (like ceiling fixtures), task lighting (such as sconces or under-cabinet strips), and accent lighting (like table lamps or picture lights). The mix adds versatility and lets you adjust the atmosphere depending on the time of day or occasion.
A quick note on bulb choice
Once you’ve chosen the style, be thoughtful about the bulbs you use. Warm white bulbs around 2700K are often best for living spaces, as they mimic the soft, inviting glow of natural light in the evening. Brighter or cooler bulbs could work in kitchens, bathrooms, and workspaces.
The right fixture can make a room feel more inviting, more functional, and more like you. So take your time, experiment with what catches your eye, and light your home in a way that feels like the perfect lighting for you.
Photography by A Plus Creative (1), Stacey Brandford (2)
