09/21/2026
Lighting can change the way a room feels without changing the room itself. A space that looks flat or harsh under one overhead fixture can feel completely different when the lighting is layered.
I like to think about three levels:
• General light for the whole room
• Task light where you read, cook or work
• Accent light that adds warmth and depth
For sellers, balanced lighting can help rooms photograph and show more naturally. For buyers, it is worth noticing whether a dark room truly lacks light or simply needs a better lighting plan.
Before replacing finishes or furniture, look at the bulbs, fixtures and placement of light sources. Sometimes the fastest design improvement is the one you switch on.