Lighting Your Bedroom

Adding task lighting makes a room feel
warmer, cozier, and more like home.

 Your bedroom is where you start your day, and where you wrap it up.  It’s your sanctuary... so don’t let your lighting choices take away from that.

Your argument may be that you don’t spend a lot of time in your bedroom with the lights on.  Okay, I’ll accept that... however, if you’re living in the “frozen north” or anywhere where the days get short and the nights get longer and longer – much more of your waking time is going to be spent living in the world of artificial light.

So make sure you make it as enjoyable as you can.

A wall- or shelf-mounted light is a good
solution if you don't have space for a bedside
table, or if you have one and you'd like
to keep the top clear.

Step one:  Assess how much lighting you need, taking into account the room’s size as well as sources of natural light and outlet locations.

A lamp on the bedside table gives a comforting
glow, but a reading lamp allows you to
direct the light and avoid disturbing
your partner.

Step two:  Assess your activities in the room.  You will definitely list sleeping, but do you also have a reading or study area? How about a dressing area? Do you need additional lighting near your dressers or in your closet? (You don’t want anyone thinking you get dressed in the dark!)

Surprise! Separate lighting in dresser drawers
or closets gives a great view of your options
while letting others sleep away!

Step three:  Consider the different types/functions of lighting. General lighting should reach every corner of the room. Direct, or task lighting will fill a specific need (reading, studying, computer work.)

Now that you’ve done your homework, it’s time for the fun part: choosing your lamps!

Extra Tip!

Are you a fan of natural lighting?  Strategically placed mirrors make a room feel larger and brighter. Or if you want to go for the gold: a skylight is a great additional source of natural light.