The bedroom is meant for rest and relaxation, but in modern homes, it often serves multiple purposes. Choosing the right lighting depends on who uses the room and how it’s used.
Lighting for a Child’s Room
In an infant or young child’s room, a good reading lamp is essential for bedtime stories. This can be an overhead light above the reading spot or a lamp near the bed or chair. For table lamps, place them out of a young child’s reach for safety. A small night light can illuminate the room without keeping the child awake and helps parents avoid stumbling during nighttime visits.
As children grow and start school, their lighting needs evolve. Homework requires task lighting, such as an overhead fixture, desk lamp, or track lighting. Position the light to illuminate the workspace without casting shadows, which may require some trial and error. A bright overhead light with a dimmer switch provides ample light for playtime while reducing the risk of knocking over a lamp or touching a hot bulb.
Lighting for a Teenager’s Room
A teenager’s room requires creative lighting solutions, as it’s used for sleeping, studying, socializing, and escaping. For homework, proper lighting prevents eye strain. If they study on their bed, an overhead fixture or track lighting directed at the bed works well. A desk lamp is ideal for desk-based studying, while a floor lamp with a swiveling shade suits a reading chair.
Ambient lighting sets the mood in a teenager’s room. Decorative options like lava lamps, disco-style ceiling fixtures, or lamps reflecting hobbies (e.g., sports or dance) add personality. A dimmer switch allows them to control the light level for different activities.
In all children’s rooms, avoid halogen bulbs, which get very hot and pose a burn or fire hazard if touched or if toys or clothing come into contact. Incandescent or energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs provide sufficient light safely.
Lighting for the Master Bedroom
The ideal master bedroom is a quiet, romantic retreat, but it’s often used for work, exercise, television viewing, and sleeping. These varied uses require diverse lighting solutions.
Reading in Bed
For reading in bed, proper lighting prevents eye and neck strain. A bedside lamp is a simple solution, but distinguish between a bedside lamp (5–15 inches tall, often for ambient or accent lighting) and a table lamp (24–30 inches tall, better for reading). Choose a height based on your bedside table, bed height, and preferences. A 3-way bulb allows adjustable light levels, and positioning the lamp to shine over your shoulder eliminates shadows. Wall-mounted swing-arm lamps are another excellent option, as they can be adjusted as needed.
If you have a comfortable chair in the bedroom, place a floor lamp, table lamp, or wall-mounted lamp nearby to create a cozy reading nook.
Work and Task Lighting
If the bedroom doubles as a workspace, task lighting is crucial. Desk lamps with 3-way bulbs allow control over light intensity and direction, unlike overhead fixtures, which are harder to adjust. Track lighting can also work if positioned correctly.
Ambient and Specialized Lighting
Ambient lighting enhances the master bedroom’s atmosphere. A small lamp on a dresser with a pink bulb casts a soft, rosy glow, flattering everyone. Wall sconces create a romantic feel by washing the walls with light. A dimmer switch is essential for adjusting light levels, especially in a multi-purpose room.
Specialized lighting adds character. An uplight behind a plant casts intriguing shadows and brightens a corner. For special artwork, use small lamps to highlight paintings or photos, doubling as soft night lights when you’re away.
Final Considerations
Choosing bedroom lighting is complex, with many factors to consider. Thoughtful selections tailored to the room’s users and purposes will create a comfortable, functional space you’ll enjoy for years.
