To set the perfect mood for your bedroom while providing adequate light, you need a plan. Just as you plan your color scheme and furnishings it’s important to take into consideration your needs, as well as the features and limitations of your room, when you design your lighting plan.

Lighting for any room, including the bedroom, is best done in layers.

• Ambient light (also called general light) serves the same function as natural sunlight, bathing your entire room in light.
• Accent light highlights visual features you wish to showcase, such as artwork.
• Task lighting is a more focused type of lighting that makes reading, writing, sewing and other tasks easier.

The most effective lighting plans incorporate all three types of lights to meet the needs of those using the room. As your build your layers of light, remember that bedroom lighting should create a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere using soft, flattering ambient light while providing bright spots in the places where they are needed.

When developing your bedroom lighting design, first consider the size and ceiling height of your room. Take measurements. Research what types and sizes of light fixtures best fit the size of your room. HGTV Remodels offers dozens of tips and ideas to help you choose the right fixtures to fit both the size of your room and your decorating style.

Next, it’s time to get personal and consider the style of your bedroom. Light fixtures are available in an almost endless range of sizes, styles and prices. Do you prefer traditional styles or more modern touches? Do you like a mix of both? You may decide to install recessed lights, a good choice for ambient lighting in any room; on the other hand, a single flush-mount fixture or chandelier may be more your style. Ceiling fans can provide both light and climate control, and wall sconces, placed high enough on the wall, can offer some ambient light.

Many designers recommend incorporating several lights of a lower wattage as opposed to one or two bright fixtures. For added flexibility, place your ambient lighting on dimmer switches that you can adjust based on your mood and activities. Softer bulbs can also keep your bedroom light from being unpleasant or glaring.

Layer your overhead lighting with table lamps on your nightstands for bedtime reading, or install hanging lights or wall lights with swing arms over the tables to free up space for books. Do you have artwork or photographs on one wall of your bedroom? You might consider accent lighting here. Don’t forget reading nooks, dressing areas, master bathrooms and closets. These areas should be part of your overall lighting plan, not afterthoughts.

Still wondering about bedroom lighting? Head to PlumbTile to talk with our expert employees about all different types of lighting. They will be able to answer any questions you may have and help find the perfect bedroom lighting for you and your family. Let us help you brighten your home.