Bedroom Lighting Tips

With bedroom lighting, you want to create an overall atmosphere of quiet relaxation while providing some bright spots for reading and other activities. A combination of general lighting and task lighting is needed that takes into account the age and lifestyle of the occupant(s). Dimming controls give you the flexibility to vary the light to suit different moods and activities.

Wall-mounted light fixtures furnish general, task, and accent lighting. Today's choices of wall-mounted fixtures are vast. You can select a decorative theme that can be carried throughout the home or a look designed to blend into your bedroom decor.

Semi-flush or ceiling light fixtures provide general lighting. They are available with incandescent, fluorescent, halogen, xenon, and energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs.

Recessed Lighting

  • Hang pendant lighting next to the bed or install recessed downlights in the ceiling over the bed. A way of directing light over the top of the bed is to properly place two recessed lights independently switched to control each light individually.

General Lighting

  • General lighting can be provided by ceiling fixtures, chandeliers, fan lights, recessed downlights, or wall sconces, giving you the illumination you need to dress and see into drawers and closets.

Children’s Bedroom Lighting

  • Children’s rooms will benefit from the use of properly placed track lights, which can be swiveled, rotated, and aimed in a direction to shed light on play areas, hobbies, or homework. As the child grows older, the fixtures can be moved and redirected toward a stereo cabinet or sitting area.

Closet Lighting

  • For closets, a surface mounted fluorescent light at the top of the header on the inside of the closet is recommended. This gives even illumination on the inside of the closet from the shelf all the way to the ground.

Reading Light

  • Swing-arm wall lamps on either side of the bed will provide adequate light for reading while leaving night tables free for a clock-radio, books, or beverages.

Dressing Table

  • At the dressing table, a table lamp along with a lighted magnifying mirror will provide ideal lighting for grooming and applying makeup.5

For more bedroom lighting tips, schedule an appointment with a Wolfers lighting expert.