A living room is used for everything – guests, movies, reading and quiet evenings – so it needs light at more than one height. Combine ambient, task and accent light, put them on separate switches or dimmers, and the room can change mood in seconds.
Ambient light from above
Start with a ceiling fixture or recessed downlights. For a central fixture, add the room length and width in feet – the total in inches is a good diameter. Space downlights about half the ceiling height apart.
Lamps at seating height
Table and floor lamps beside the sofa and chairs give a warm, low light that feels far more relaxing than overhead light alone. The bottom of the shade should sit roughly at eye level when you are seated.
Wall sconces
Sconces beside a fireplace, a window or a piece of art add light at eye level. Mount them about 60–66 inches above the floor.
Accent lighting
Cove lighting, LED strips in shelves and track heads aimed at art bring out texture and make the room feel bigger at night.
Color temperature and dimmers
Choose 2700K for a warm, cozy living room, and put the ceiling light and lamps on dimmers so the room works for both a busy afternoon and a movie night.