We’ve always shuffled lamps around our home. Do you do the same? Whenever furniture is moved or a new season arrives, I reassess the lighting and rearrange lamps and fixtures. Lighting plays a huge role in the mood of our rooms.
In the early years of our marriage, my husband and I probably bought more lamps and light fixtures than any other accessory. We enjoy hunting for the right pieces that add charm and create a warm, comfortable atmosphere.
Even now, when my husband walks into the room at dusk and I haven’t gotten up to turn on any lamps, he teases, “Why are you sitting in the dark?!” Our evening lighting routine is still a small ritual.
I aim to have each room well lit in the evenings, with ambient light near seating areas and soft illumination around the room’s perimeter. Dark, shadowy corners make me uncomfortable, so I plan lighting to avoid them.
Along with functional task lighting, I like lamps that create a cozy, inviting ambience. A small accent lamp can be all you need to set the right mood in a corner or beside a chair.
For example, I have two narrow cabinets in the living room that needed compact lamps. I recently found a pair that fit perfectly: brass and white table lamps that are just the right size for those spots. Their shape and finish add charm without overwhelming the narrow surfaces.
Our living room has no overhead lights or wall sconces, so it becomes quite dark at night. Someday I’d love to add ceiling fixtures and sconces, but for now we rely entirely on freestanding lamps.
The new lamps are the first two I switch on each evening.
I’ve collected inspiration for other fixtures I’d love to add, shown in the inspiration board at the end of this post. Lighting adds personality to a space, so it’s worth taking time to choose pieces that feel right. Bulb choice also matters—I share a tip about that at the end.
I also found several beautiful fixtures from Hudson Valley Lighting that I’d love to incorporate someday. Lighting has the power to transform a room’s feel, so choosing fixtures you love makes a big difference.
Below, you’ll find a few favorite fixtures included in the inspiration board along with source references.
Sources: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8
Lightbulb tip: Many photographers prefer cool white bulbs because they make images look brighter and reduce warm tones. Personally, I favor warm lightbulbs for living spaces because they create a cozier, more comfortable atmosphere.
For example, bright white bulbs in our kitchen make the space feel stark, so I rarely use them. I prefer soft, warm light from sconces and lamps for everyday living.
Do you consider how lighting affects the mood of your rooms?
Looking for more lighting? Check out my favorite picks in my Amazon Lighting Shop!