Lighting can make or break a room. Bad lighting? It can ruin the feel – or worse. The key: Match the light to the room’s purpose.
“Lighting is so critical,” says interior designer Mary Cook of Mary Cook Associates. “It really is a big deal.”
Designer Jackie Graniczny says to ask yourself these questions:
What is the purpose of this room?’
How big is the room?
Will lighting be for utility or decorative purposes?
Why color temperature matters
Measured in Kelvins (K): higher = cooler/blue, lower = warmer/yellow.
Cool light: Blue-toned, energizing. Best for kitchens, baths, workspaces and outdoors. Typically falls between 4,000 and 6,500 Kelvin.
Warm light: Red-toned, calming. Best for bedrooms, living rooms and gathering spaces. Typically falls between 2,000 and 3,000 Kelvin.
Bright/white light: Neutral daylight-like. Good for task lighting, kitchens, baths and basements. Typically falls around 4,000K–6,000K.
What Works Best in Each Room
Kitchen
This room does real work – so your lighting should, too.
Use mostly cool light + layered lighting.
Match pendant and task lighting.
Owner’s Suite & Bedrooms
Your needs change from morning to night – your lighting should, too.
Opt for natural light in the morning.
Use warm light at night to help your body wind down.
“Exposure to natural sunlight is a great way to start your day,” says Cook.
Bathrooms
“In rooms like the bathroom, where someone is applying makeup, we make sure they have amazing lighting,” Graniczny says.
Try cool or bright lighting as it mimics daylight and wakes you up.
Layer with warm lighting for relaxing evening baths.
Home Theater
Keep it simple.
Think matte walls, good seating, quality screen – and warm lighting.
Warm light prevents screen glare and gives you a low, theater-style glow.
Study / Office
You need focus here.
Cool light is stimulating and helps you stay on task.
Add a warm lamp as a secondary option.
Outdoor Spaces
You want visibility and security.
Bright white lighting mimics daytime.
Bright lighting also offers better visibility and safety at night.
Pro tip: Both pros recommend LED bulbs for efficiency, longevity and versatility.
Easy Guide to Lighting
| Room / Space | Recommended Lighting Type | Why It Works |
| Kitchen | Cool + layered lighting | Energizing for tasks; consistent color across open layouts. |
| Bedrooms | Natural light AM + warm PM | Supports wake/sleep cycles; creates a calming night environment. |
| Bathrooms | Cool/bright + warm layer | Best for grooming; warm option adds spa-like relaxation. |
| Home Theater | Warm accent lighting | Reduces glare; offers safe, subtle illumination. |
| Study / Office | Cool (with optional warm lamp) | Boosts concentration; warm lighting supports winding down. |
| Outdoor Spaces | Bright white light | Improves visibility and enhances nighttime security. |
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Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.