Multiple lighting sources come together to create an open and
airy feeling in the large master bedroom.
Rope light tucked behind
specially designed
crown molding for indirect lighting makes the ceiling "float" and provides
soft overall illumination. Also
LED lights are often used
for indirect lighting behind crown molding.
Bedroom require flexible lighting that is energizing in the
morning and calming at night, with task lighting for reading or around the
mirror. Recessed down lights mounted on the tray ceiling
right above the bed, supplement a pair of table lamps for bedside
reading, and indirect lighting on the ceiling provides mood lighting.
Many bedrooms and bedroom closets do not have any ceiling fixtures and must rely on lamps
alone. One outlet is usually connected to the switch. so someone
entering the room can immediately turn on a light. If this is the case
in your bedroom, position enough lamps to light the room evenly.
Bedrooms need comfortable general lighting with
appropriate task lights for reading, grooming, deskwork, and other
activities. Direct lighting is also helpful in the bedroom when placed
over chest of drawers, in closets, close to seating, and over beds. Dim
circulation lighting for safety at night is a basic requirement. Accent
lighting can be effectively used to focus on a painting or wall unit.
Natural light in the bedroom is always best, of course, but not all homes are blessed with
sufficient sunlight. You can make artificial light in the bedroom dramatic and
seductive but functional at the same time. Whether in their early twenties or
late seventies, all buyers like a little atmosphere in the bedroom.
General Lighting. Obviously, general lighting is somewhat less important in the bedroom than in
other areas of the home. The most important rule is to make sure that whatever
lighting fixture you have is clean, bright, and attractive. General lighting can
be provided by chandeliers,
flash-mount ceiling lights
or recessed lighting.
Task Lighting. Reading or applying makeup requires specific lighting. There are a wide range of
lighting options, including sconces (fixtures like
swing-arm sconce
can be placed at the
head of the bed creating a beautiful
bedroom wall decor, and can
be adjusted for reading) or
table lamps. If you buy
lamps for the purpose of marketing
your bedroom, consider selecting only those fixtures that you can take with you
when you sell your home.
If you want a more permanent look, consider a wall-mounted track light. When
installed with a dimmer, these lights can be tremendously versatile.
Accent Lighting. Mood or accent lighting can highlight objects in your bedroom and set the right
tone. Create a dramatic effect by placing portable can lights on the floor
behind furniture—like bureaus or the headboard on your bed. Lights placed behind
large floor plants will also create an interesting atmosphere. This will, of
course, only work if you are showing your home during the evening or the dark
corners in one or more of your bedrooms. Make sure all cords are carefully
hidden.
