Take a good look around your room. What’s missing? Maybe it’s time to leave furniture or wall painting aside and switch your attention to the lights. Providing your home with the best lighting is not a simple task and it sure requires some level of knowledge. According to the design experts, lighting is a hidden and much underestimated tool; it can make the simplest white tiles look magical or expensive marble look terrible if you get it wrong.

Good lighting is about making “layers” of different lighting effects. Just as an interior designer works with texture and colour, the lighting designers play with downlights on artwork. A cheap vase can look glamorous if back-lit properly. With the right lighting, all objects in the room come alive. It can create a dramatic effect in the shower, making it look like a luxurious spa. So, if you want to make your home glow like a pro, follow the tips we stole from interior designers.

When you are looking to choose the right lighting for each room of your home, there are two rules. First, you should have different light sources placed at different levels in order to create a flattering ambiance and the second, you need to consider the room and its purpose so that you can accordingly set the lights.

Living room – When it comes to this room, experts recommend to light three out of the four corners while placing the focus on an object (a striking chair, a plant, art). You can use a mix of floor lamps and table lamps, some that shine upward and some with a downward glow. If you want to create several nice reading spots, opt for a few down-glowing lights. Overhead fixtures can conveniently be installed with a dimmer instead of a light switch.

Dining room – The table is the focal point in the dining room, so make it the brightest spot that will draw people in. Use a pendant or a chandelier above the table. For elsewhere in the room, your best choice is indirect lighting, since it’s flattering and relaxing. You can also give your dining room a subtle glow by placing a pair of small table lamps on a sideboard. Battery-powered votives inside the front cabinet can provide a vary nice touch.

Kitchen – This room requires focus provided by overhead lighting and a few lower lighting sources to illuminate work surface. You can use under-cabinet lights, pendants or a sturdy lamp that should be kept away from the sink.

Bedroom – Bedroom is your relaxation retreat, so aim for a cozy atmosphere by placing reading lamps by the bed, just make sure they are not pointed directly at it. If you have track or recessed fixtures, angle them toward the dressing area and away from the bed. On a low table, include intimate, small lamp to mimic candlelight for more flattering look.

Bathroom – The best choice are sidelights, for instance a pair of sconces (perfect for when applying makeup). You’ll also need an overhead light for complete room illumination (which is very important for cleaning) and helps fill in any shadows on your face. If you have a large bathroom, you may want a light directly over the shower.

By following these professional tips, you’ll surely get the grip of what a difference proper lightning can make in the sunless phase of the day.