A well-thought-out lighting design can elevate any room, creating the ideal ambiance for all the activities in the home. With new developments in lighting design, dynamic and exciting home lighting possibilities are virtually endless. New technologies, shapes, and materials have transformed lighting from an essential element to an extraordinary part of a home’s interior design.

The key to excellent home lighting is to focus on functional and ornamental lighting in equal measure. With so many different materials, sizes, and shapes, it can be challenging to know where to start. From trendy pendant lighting fixtures to elegant chandeliers and everything in between, there are plenty of options to choose from.

This guide to lighting design will cover new lighting trends and how they can level up the look and feel of a home.

Utilizing Shapes for Your Home Lighting

Using shapes in home lighting is a trend that is here to stay. Unique shapes can create a theme or set the mood in a home. By mixing different shapes, you can add visual interest and functionality to the lighting design in any room. Or you can mix shapes in one fixture for a more casual feel.

Poppy 36 Inch 6 Light Semi Flush Mount by Hinkley Lighting

For example, if you want the space to have an eclectic modern vibe, adding several types of lighting in different shapes is the way to go. This bathroom features the Poppy 36 Inch 6 Light Semi Flush Mount and Henri 22 Inch 2 Light LED Bath Vanity Light, both by Hinkley Lighting. Each piece brings a different sensibility and functionality to the room that works together as a balanced whole. Coordinating finishes offer a cohesive look while the different shapes enhance the eclectic appeal.

Glendale 16 Inch Cage Pendant by Hudson Valley Lighting

Alternatively, you can choose lighting that incorporates two shapes in one design, such as the Glendale 16 Inch Cage Pendant by Hudson Valley Lighting. This contemporary cage light encloses a Sputnik-style lantern, making it interesting and versatile.

Selecting the Right Lighting Size for Your Rooms

Whether choosing a chandelier, modern close to ceiling lighting, or stylish wall lights, getting the size right is essential to the room’s design. For instance, a large light would look out of place over a small table, while a small light in a large room would be underwhelming. When selecting the lighting for any area, consider how it will be used and how the lighting fits into the overall home design.

Lettie 14 Inch 1 Light LED Flush Mount by Hudson Valley Lighting

The soft white shade and nickel finish of the Lettie 14 Inch 1 Light LED Flush Mount by Hudson Valley Lighting offset the white oak floors, a winning look for this foyer. It adds the perfect touch to this small entryway. A larger light would crowd the space, both visually and physically, making it feel cramped and awkward.

Aerin Jacqueline 32 Inch 12 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co.

Adding dazzling style to this dining room, the Aerin Jacqueline 32 Inch 12 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co. is perfectly proportionate to the table and the room. Smaller lighting would get lost, while the white acrylic glass beads and hand-rubbed antique brass finish on this stunning chandelier work with the white color palette, catching the eye of all who enter the dining room.

Creating a Mood with Color-Specific Lighting

Many homeowners want a personalized experience in their homes, and the ability to change the color of the lighting is a great way to do that. The rooms in which we relax, such as bedrooms or living rooms, should have the lighting with the ability to emit lower levels of illumination with warm, reddish hues so that the light is flattering. Cooler, blueish tints work well in rooms such as kitchens, home offices, and laundry rooms where people are more alert and active. Dimmer switches can help control the brightness, while smart bulbs can change the light color from cool to warm depending on the desired mood and activities.

Schonbek Beyond Quest 5 Inch LED Mini Pendant

Color-specific lighting in the bedroom can set the mood for relaxing and sleeping or sitting up and reading. With smart, color-changing bulbs, the stunning Schonbek Beyond Quest 5 Inch LED Mini Pendant can serve all these purposes. The illumination and color can be adjusted depending on the desired activity and mood. It’s the ideal combination of technology, style, and function.

Suzanne Kasler Soleil 24 Inch 1 Light Semi Flush Mount by Visual Comfort and Co.

The Suzanne Kasler Soleil 24 Inch 1 Light Semi Flush Mount by Visual Comfort and Co. offers bright, white light in this chic laundry room, perfect for a space that sees a lot of activity. It also highlights the cheerful blue color palette, making doing the laundry a bit more bearable.

What Are the Latest Trends in Lighting?

This house lighting design guide wouldn’t be complete without some examples of one of the hottest trends in lighting. Making a statement with lighting design is on the rise. Homeowners are looking for sculptural, standout lighting with a high wow factor as well as decorative and vintage styles. This lets people spotlight their homes and can often serve as eye-catching artwork. Lighting designers are getting creative with materials and shapes.

Arteriors Home Barry Dixon Egg Drop 16 Inch Large Pendant

A pair of playful Arteriors Home Barry Dixon Egg Drop 16 Inch Large Pendant brings both style and grace to this stunning kitchen design. The artfully designed solid egg serves a practical purpose, allowing the hooded metal light to be hung at any height.

Lotus 54 Inch 21 Light Chandelier by Hudson Valley Lighting

Light, bright, and stunning is the best way to describe this breakfast nook featuring the Lotus 54 Inch 21 Light Chandelier by Hudson Valley Lighting. Centered directly over the glass-topped table, it draws the eye up from the table base, highlights the fun artwork, and blossoms into an elegant white lotus.

Trillium 32 Inch Wall Sconce by Regina Andrew

Making a uniquely dramatic statement, Trillium 32 Inch Wall Sconce by Regina Andrew balances rustic charm with old-world elegance. Each branch is gilded in a natural brass finish that, when lit, is bathed in warm light from above.