Living Room Lighting Ideas We Love
Updated: Aug. 25, 2021Your living room is a multi-use space, so you need to have the right lighting for the right use. The three main types of lighting include ambient (all over illumination), task lighting and accent lights to highlight certain areas or objects of interest. No matter what type of lighting you need, here are some living room lighting ideas to inspire you.
Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication.
Floor Lamp
Aside from its most basic function, good lighting makes a room feel comfortable and welcoming. Floor lamps are great because they’re versatile, move them around to create the feeling you want. With three light sources pointing upward at different angles, this 63 in. Archeology Tripod Lamp bathes this cozy lounging corner in the living room at the Family Handyman Getaway with warm light while still being functional.
Overhead Lighting
When it comes to overall, overhead lighting, the options are nearly endless. Your overheard light can be used to show off your personality, so go for a contemporary or mid-century pendant or even a chandelier, depending on your style. Try the three-light pendant from Kenroy Home. The cork shade creates a dazzling contrast against the brushed steel hardware. Hanging a new light fixture is an easy DIY project too.
Task Lighting
Task lighting provides increased light for specific tasks such as reading, crafts or crossword puzzles. Table, desk and floor lamps are great, easy options to add a bit of light right where you need it.
When choosing task lighting, try to stick to your decor style. “If you have contemporary or modern decor, you’ll want a contemporary or modern desk lamp. Do your cabinets and drawers have brushed nickel or rubbed bronze handles? Match (or complement) your desk lamp finish to the other finishes in your space when possible,” according to Jackie Bowen, a lighting specialist with Lightology. This $2,000 floor lamp with reading arm gives your living room ambient light along with directed task lighting. But, if you’re simply looking for a good task lighting lamp, the one shown here is less than $50!
Track Lighting
Track lighting can enhance areas of your living room that may need a bit of extra light. Individual track lights can be swiveled and aimed at a piece of art or a dark corner. This six-light swing arm track light kit allows you to direct light into virtually any position. Learn how to upgrade a recessed light fixture.
Arc Lamp
If you don’t have an overheard light, you can have a central light source with an arc lamp. Arc lamps are floor lamps that are high enough, making it so you don’t have to worry about bumping your head. These lamps work best in contemporary settings as they generally have a modern look. Try the overarching acrylic shade floor lamp from West Elm. It plugs into a standard wall outlet.
Recessed Lighting
Also known as pot lights or can lights, recessed lighting can provide ambient lighting for the whole room, or work to spotlight a certain area. Recessed lighting generally has two pieces—the housing and the trim. “The trim is the part that you can see from the room below, and comes in a range of finishes, sizes and shapes. The housing is the portion of the light that you do not see—it sits above your ceiling line,” according to lumens.com, a lighting and decor website. The Home Depot offers a recessed lighting buying guide to help you determine what size recessed lights are best for your living room. Here’s how you can install recessed lighting for dramatic effect.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting can highlight various focal points of your living room, including artwork or unique architectural features. This type of lighting can include picture and display lights, spotlights and table lights. This easy-to-install 18-inch battery-powered LED picture light comes with a remote. Its light will add a subtle glow to your living room and it is safe to use on artwork.
Sconces
When it comes to living room lighting ideas, sconces can be used to make a statement. This form of accent lighting comes in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern. This mid-century, starburst wall sconce can be mounted vertically or horizontally, and it can double as a work of art.
Matching Lamps
For living room lighting needs, it’s hard to beat matching lamps. Place matching lamps at opposite ends of the sofa so both ends have equal light. These glass twist lamps have an eye-catching green-blue base and are the ideal size for end tables. Follow these tips for fixing a broken lamp cord.
Lights as Art
If hanging a bunch of artwork isn’t your style, a stylish central light fixture in a unique design can add a bit of artistic flair to your living room. It can be mounted to the wall or hung from the ceiling, but if it’s the later, just make sure it is hung low enough that it feels like part of the room, but not too low that you are worried about bumping into it. This LED chandelier will make a statement in any living room. Make it look like you’re home so you fool burglars with these eight tips.
Ceiling Fan Lights
If you have a ceiling fan in your living room, it only makes sense to include a light. This ceiling fan with light has a warm white LED light that can be powered by remote, and will add plenty of ambient light to your space. Here’s everything you need to know about smart lights for your home.
CMU Unit
for only $10!