Lighting in the home is important because it improves the mood, creating a warm and bright ambiance as opposed to gloomy and unattractive spaces. You can manipulate your home's atmosphere just by how you position the lighting and the kinds of fixtures you use.

Start by considering your ambient lighting, the first layer of lighting which should offer even illumination throughout your space. You may choose a statement hanging light fixture, like a chandelier. Next, move on to task lighting, extra illumination for completing tasks like reading. Now more than ever, homes continue to serve as offices and schools, and sufficient task lighting is important for these work spaces. You can also brighten up your home through accent lighting, strategically placed to draw your eye and highlight favorite accent pieces or artwork. From small table lamps to floor lamps to striking hanging light fixtures, the possibilities are endless to truly light up your home!

Here are some of the trends that are illuminating style throughout your home in the form of light fixtures and lamps.

Gold Goodness

Gold light fixtures have been making their way into the spotlight in recent styles—but with a twist. Today’s gold of choice isn’t bright and brassy. Found in hanging light fixtures, table lamps, and floor lamps, soft gold will bring out the mellowness and warmth of the room, while still adding a little shine. Another unique feature about gold accented lighting is its ability to play well with a number of today’s hottest design styles from urban to farmhouse! For overhead lighting in your kitchen area, look for statement golden chandeliers or other hanging light fixtures.

You can also incorporate a modern gold table lamp as useful artwork in your living space. A perfect candidate for task lighting, an elegant floor lamp can be placed next to an armchair or sofa to create a comfortable reading nook.

Industrial Lighting Styles

The industrial trend has been around for a while, with its emphasis on raw materials and metal accents. Industrial style lighting often features fixtures with dark steel and perhaps wire cages, along with exposed bulbs. This type of lighting plays well with spaces that include neutral colors and rustic finishes such as wood floors and granite countertops. Industrial Edison bulbs are IN! In addition to enhancing the industrial feel, the soft glow of these bulbs will help add a lighter feel to the bold mix. Create a unique twist to your kitchen area by adding an industrial style hanging light fixture or add a few lamps as an accent or task lighting throughout your home.

Go Big or Go Home

Kitchen islands and common areas, such as entryways and living rooms, are great spaces to utilize stylish hanging light fixtures that play well with your overall design and floor plan. Create a focal point in your space by using a large light fixture. There are a variety of styles available, from fancy and traditional to streamlined and modern. Eco-inspired accent lighting has made its way in interior design as a way to incorporate natural materials into your home. Look for natural wood bases and outdoorsy materials like rattan or warm ceramics.

Bold Bliss

From shape and texture to the color scheme, being bold in your home decor is in. Bold lighting pieces with structural shapes and textures continue to make a style statement even after the light is switched off. Geometrically shaped lighting will add a bit of pizazz and style to your space. Merging modern and traditional styles in your lighting accent pieces is a great way to throw a surprise in the room.

Lighting is one of those aspects of interior design that is commonly left behind. Your lighting should complement the overall tone of your room, as well as match the design of the entire area. By utilizing strategic lighting, you gain the ability to both enhance the look of the room, as well as the overall functionality.