The Three Types Of Lighting - Accent, Ambient and Task - And How To Layer Them In Your Home

The Three Types Of Lighting - Accent, Ambient and Task - And How To Layer Them In Your Home

 I don't know about you but in our living room the 'big light' never goes on, just my lovely side and floor lamps for a cosy feel!! Chris (other half of SFS) would sit in the dark and watch TV if he could, not to save money just because he likes it, (I think it is because he can fall asleep more easily without me noticing)!!
However when decorating a space, did you know there are three main types of lighting?! And layering lighting is a key design principle that can help to create a warm and inviting ambiance in any room of your home. By layering different types of lighting, you can achieve a harmonious balance of light and shadow, and create a sense of depth and dimension in your space.

Wall sconce lamp with brass hardware and white shade

Wall sconces are a great option if you lack space for floor lamps or a lamp and lamp table


The three main types of lighting to consider when layering are ambient, task, and accent lighting.

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⭐️Ambient lighting is the overall lighting in a room, and it provides the basic illumination for a space. This can be achieved through overhead lighting, such as recessed or track lighting, or through floor lamps and table lamps.
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⭐️Task lighting is focused lighting that is used for specific activities, such as reading or cooking. This type of lighting can be provided through under-cabinet lights, pendant lights, or wall sconces.
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⭐️Accent lighting is used to highlight specific features or elements in a room, such as artwork or architectural details. This can be achieved through track lighting, picture lights, or spotlights.
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When layering lighting, it's important to consider the function of the room and the activities that will take place there. For example, in a living room, you may want to use ambient lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, task lighting for reading or watching TV, and accent lighting to highlight a favourite piece of artwork or some displayed items on a shelf!
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In the kitchen, ambient lighting is crucial for obvious safety reasons, task lighting for food preparation and cooking, and accent lighting for under-cabinets which are nice to have on when you aren't perhaps in the kitchen but want to subtly illuminate the space.
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White minimalist kitchen with wooden shelving and an island, three black bar stools positioned to the front and four black pendants hang over the island
Pendants hanging over a kitchen island are great for providing extra lighting for tasks yet provide a beautiful light when used alone
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In the bathroom, ambient lighting is important for overall illumination, task lighting for grooming and makeup application, and accent lighting for decorative elements such as artwork or a statement mirror.
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White tiled bathroom, with light up circular mirror, shower screen to the right and black shower
An illuminated mirror in the bathroom is a great choice for grooming and applying makeup
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When layering lighting, it's also important to consider the intensity of the light, as well as the colour temperature of the bulbs. Warm, yellow light can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere, while cool, blue light can make a space feel more modern and crisp.
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Neutral painted living room with neutral sofa and a single accent chair each scattered with cushions containing accents of orange
The lamp in this space adds a cosy glow, whilst the spot lights provide a good all round illumination that can be turned off when a more subtle light is desired
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So to recap, layering lighting is a great way to create a warm and inviting ambiance in any room of your home. By combining the three types of lighting - ambient, task, and accent, you can achieve a beautiful balance of light and shadow, and spaces with depth and dimension, highlight certain features in your home as well as creating cosy and homely vibes!
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Thanks for reading, if you have any questions please leave a comment, 
Stacey x
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