Lighting is one of the most critical yet often overlooked elements of interior design. A well-planned lighting scheme has the power to transform a room's atmosphere, highlight architectural features, and make daily tasks easier.

To achieve the perfect balance, you should layer three types of lighting: ambient (general illumination), task (focused light for reading, cooking, or working), and accent (lighting used to highlight artwork, plants, or design features). Combined, these layers add depth and interest.

Dimmers are an easy and inexpensive way to control lighting levels and set the mood in any room. Consider the color temperature of your light bulbs as well—warm white bulbs create a cozy, inviting feel in living spaces and bedrooms, while cool white bulbs are better suited for kitchens, bathrooms, and home offices.