Let there be Light… Fixtures
Windows are portals of beauty in a home.
When I walk into a client’s home, the first thing I do is have them turn on all the lights and open all the shades. I like to let the natural light absorb the space.
Not only do windows bring in natural light, but they also shape how we experience a room. Light is one of the most powerful design elements we have and, in my opinion, the most overlooked. My first priority in any space is always the same: maximize and honor natural light. And honestly, natural light is free. We love an energy-efficient moment.
We all have access to one of the most transformative design tools, yet I’m constantly surprised by how often it’s underused. Natural light shifts everything: your mood, energy, mental clarity, even the way you move through a space.
It supports vitamin D production, improves sleep cycles, boosts mood, and increases productivity. But beyond the science, there’s something more instinctive about it, we simply feel better in it. I think about the typical office environment: stale lighting, no connection to the outdoors, fluorescent exhaustion. It changes how people feel. To me it is sad how this type of environment is how we spend most of our days. We really only have so many days on this earth so why does it have to be spent this way?
A window, in itself, is a functional piece of art.
“All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. “— John 1:3
When the view isn’t ideal or you have the tendency to be the naked neighbor, window treatments come into play. Layering and framing can transform even an ordinary outlook into something intentional and beautiful.
Even when the view isn’t remarkable, just the framing of the window to the outside world creates a connection between your interior and outdoor environment.
The Three Layers of Light
A well-designed space doesn’t rely on natural light alone. It’s supported by three essential layers: ambient, task, and accent lighting.
When these work together, a room feels balanced, functional, and alive. Another important detail is bulb temperature. In residential spaces, the most common light color is an often soft white around 2700 Kelvins. Nothing throws off a space faster than mixing cool and warm bulbs. Maybe you have seen it maybe you haven’t even noticed it but the instance of a light fixture with two cool bulbs and three warm ones. Immediate chaos.
1. Ambient Lighting (the foundation)
Ambient lighting provides the overall illumination of a space. It’s the base layer — the light that allows you to move comfortably and safely through a room. Also known as “the big light,” and nobody really likes the big light.
Chandeliers
Recessed lighting
Track lighting
Wall sconces
Pendants
Cove or soffit lighting
Natural light from windows or skylights
This layer belongs in every space: living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways but it doesn’t mean that it is used 24/7. It is just there.
2. Task Lighting (the function)
Task lighting is focused and intentional, but it’s also incredible for creating mood and atmosphere. It supports the things you actually do in a space: reading, cooking, working, getting ready. Like mentioned above, a room becomes instantly moodier when the big light is off.
Desk & table lamps
Pendant lighting over work surfaces
Under-cabinet kitchen lighting
Adjustable floor lamps
Task lighting is practical, but good task lighting also allows you to romanticize everyday routines.
3. Accent Lighting (the atmosphere)
“Accent lighting is where personality comes in.” That is what they say but it really can be shown through all types of lighting.
Task lighting can be used to highlight architectural details, artwork, plants, or textures. It adds depth, contrast, and visual interest.
Picture lights
Pendant lights
Wall-mounted fixtures
LED strip lighting
Directional spotlights
This layer is often brighter in its focused area and helps create a sense of intention and drama within a space.
Don’t Play It Safe
From me to you — Take risks and go for something a little outside of your norm. These can end up being the favorite parts of your home. Why? Because your house doesn’t look like something you have seen before you have now mixed in an element that adds the perfect amount of interest and balance to create a truly bespoke look.
Lighting choices allow you to be bold and honor your look. Instead of going for a typical pendant in the kitchen, for example try an oversized fixture with dramatic form and a little “flair” to add some drama and va-va-voom. You have created something unique to you.
In an open-concept home, it’s tempting to make every fixture match. Instead, let one fixture become the focal point and then layer in one or two complementary styles that bring originality and character to the space.
I’ve established how much I love light, right? The power of light cannot be overstated! Look around your home and notice those missed opportunities to brighten the sacred place you call home.
Which room in your house will be most improved with increased natural light and intentional fixture lighting? Pay attention to the shift in the room’s beauty, mood and energy.
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5
xoxo
Lilianna
