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A modern and minimalist bedroom using layered lighting

How to Choose the Right Bedroom Lighting for a Restful and Functional Space

Written by: David, Founder of ZY Lighting

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Time to read 11 min

Choosing the right bedroom lighting is essential for creating a space that promotes relaxation and supports your daily activities. The perfect combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting can transform your bedroom into a cosy and inviting retreat. A well-designed bedroom lighting scheme not only enhances the overall aesthetics of the room but also contributes to your comfort and well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the key considerations and best practices for selecting the ideal light fixtures and bulbs to illuminate your bedroom, ensuring a restful and functional environment.

Understanding the Importance of Bedroom Lighting

Proper bedroom lighting plays a crucial role in setting the right mood, enabling various activities, and creating a comfortable atmosphere. The right lighting can help you unwind after a long day, foster a peaceful sleeping environment, and provide the necessary illumination for tasks such as reading or getting dressed, making it a vital component in thoughtful interior design.


Here are some key reasons why bedroom lighting is so important:


  • Sets the mood: Lighting has a significant impact on the ambiance of your bedroom. Soft, warm lighting can create a cosy and relaxing atmosphere, while brighter, cooler tones can energise and invigorate the space.
  • Supports different activities: A well-designed bedroom lighting scheme should accommodate various activities, from reading and working to relaxing and sleeping. Task lighting, such as bedside lamps or directional wall lights (i.e., reading light), is essential for activities that require focused lighting. wall sconces), can provide focused illumination for specific needs.
  • Enhances functionality: Adequate lighting is essential for navigating your bedroom safely and efficiently. Properly placed light fixtures can help you avoid stumbling in the dark and make it easier to find what you need.
  •  Influences sleep quality: The right bedroom lighting can help regulate your circadian rhythm, the natural sleep-wake cycle. Dimming the lights before bedtime and using warm, low-intensity lighting can signal to your body that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
  • Complements your décor: Lighting fixtures not only serve a functional purpose but also contribute to the overall aesthetic of your bedroom. Carefully selected light fixtures can complement your personal style and tie the room's décor together.

By understanding the importance of bedroom lighting, you can make informed decisions when selecting fixtures and bulbs that will create a comfortable, functional, and visually appealing space.

Types of Bedroom Lighting

When designing your bedroom lighting scheme, it's essential to incorporate different types of lighting to create a well-balanced and functional space. The three main types of bedroom lighting are ambient, task, and accent lighting, each serving a specific purpose.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting, also known as general lighting, provides overall illumination for your bedroom. It sets the tone for the space and creates a comfortable atmosphere. Some popular options for ambient lighting in the bedroom include:


  • Ceiling lights: Flush mount fixtures, chandeliers, or pendant lights can provide a central source of ambient lighting, acting as an overhead light solution.
  • Wall sconces: Soft, diffused light from wall sconces can contribute to the overall ambiance of the room.
  • Recessed lighting: Discreet and space-saving, recessed lights can be strategically placed to provide even illumination throughout the bedroom.

A stylish bedroom using downlights for ambient lighting

Task Lighting

Task lighting is designed to provide focused illumination for specific activities, such as reading, writing, or applying makeup. It helps to reduce eye strain and enhances the functionality of your bedroom. Common task lighting options include:


  • Bedside table lamps: Adjustable table lamps can provide targeted light for reading or other bedside activities.
  • Pendant lights: Pendant lights hung on either side of the bed can serve as both task and ambient lighting.
  • Swing-arm wall lamps: These versatile fixtures can be adjusted to direct light exactly where you need it, making them an excellent choice for focused task lighting.
A table lamp used for task lighting on a bedroom bedside table

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting is used to highlight specific features in your bedroom, such as artwork, architectural elements, or decorative objects, and plays a crucial role in modern bedroom design. It adds depth, interest, and a touch of drama to the space. Some ideas for accent lighting in the bedroom include:


  • Picture lights: Mounted above artwork, picture lights draw attention to your favourite pieces.
  • Strip lights: Used to illuminate alcoves, shelving, or under the bed, strip lights can create a warm, inviting glow.
  • Wall washers: These fixtures can be used to highlight textured walls or create a soft, diffused light effect.
A stylish bedroom using strip lights for accent lighting

By combining these three types of lighting in your bedroom, you can create a space that is both comfortable and functional, tailored to your specific needs and preferences, reflecting well-rounded bedroom design principles.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Bedroom Lighting

When selecting lighting for your bedroom, there are several key factors to consider to ensure that you create a space that is both comfortable and functional. By taking these factors into account, you can choose the best lighting options for your specific needs and preferences.

Size and Layout of the Bedroom

The size and layout of your bedroom will greatly influence the type, number, and placement of light fixtures. Adjust your lighting accordingly to match the room's dimensions. Consider the following:


  • For larger bedrooms, you may need multiple light sources to ensure adequate illumination throughout the space.
  • In smaller bedrooms, be mindful of the scale of your lighting fixtures to avoid overwhelming the space.
  • Consider the placement of your bed, dressers, and other furniture when deciding on the location of light fixtures.
A task lamp illuminating a small sized bedroom

Colour Temperature and Brightness

Your bedroom lighting should complement and enhance the overall style and décor of the space. Consider the following:


  • Choose light fixtures that match or complement the architectural style of your home and the aesthetic of your bedroom, ensuring a cohesive look in your bedroom design.
  • Incorporate decorative elements, such as unique shades or eye-catching finishes, to add visual interest and personality to your lighting design.
  • Ensure that your lighting fixtures coordinate with other design elements in the room, such as furniture, bedding, and window treatments.

Style and Décor

The colour temperature and brightness of your bedroom lighting can significantly impact the overall ambiance and functionality of the space. Keep these tips in mind:


  • Opt for warm, soft white light (2700k-3000K) to create a cosy and relaxing atmosphere.
  • Use dimmer switches to adjust the brightness of your lights depending on the time of day and your activities.
  • Consider the lumen output of your light bulbs to ensure sufficient brightness for tasks like reading or applying makeup.

By carefully considering the size and layout of your bedroom, the colour temperature and brightness of your lighting, and the style and décor of your space, you can select lighting options that will create a beautiful, functional, and inviting bedroom retreat.

A modern grey bedroom using aesthetically matching lighting

Best Practices for Bedroom Lighting

To create a well-designed and functional bedroom lighting scheme, it's important to follow some best practices. By implementing these strategies, you can ensure that your bedroom is a comfortable, inviting, and practical space that meets all of your lighting needs.

Layering Your Lighting

One of the most effective ways to create a successful bedroom lighting design is to layer your lighting. This involves combining different types of lighting to achieve a balanced and versatile space. Here's how to layer your bedroom lighting, ensuring you integrate both natural light and artificial solutions:


  1. Start with ambient lighting to provide overall illumination and set the tone for the room.
  2. Add task lighting for specific activities, such as reading or getting dressed.
  3. Incorporate accent lighting to highlight key features and add visual interest to the space.

By layering your lighting, you can create a bedroom that is both functional and visually appealing, with the flexibility to adjust the lighting to suit your needs at any given time.

Layered Lighting in a stylish bedroom

Choosing the Right Fixtures

Selecting the appropriate light fixtures is crucial for achieving the desired look and functionality in your bedroom. Consider these tips when choosing your bedroom light fixtures to ensure you create a balanced and functional bedroom design:


  • Opt for fixtures that complement the size and scale of your bedroom. For example, a large chandelier may overwhelm a small bedroom, while a single flush mount fixture may be insufficient for a spacious master suite.
  • Choose fixtures that align with the style and décor of your bedroom. A sleek, modern table lamp may look out of place in a traditionally styled bedroom, while a vintage-inspired chandelier can add character to a more eclectic space.
  • Consider the functionality of each fixture. For example, an adjustable floor lamp may be more practical for reading than a fixed ceiling light.

Incorporating Dimmers and Smart Controls

Installing dimmers and smart controls can greatly enhance the functionality and convenience of your bedroom lighting. Here are some benefits of incorporating these features:


  • Dimmers allow you to adjust the brightness of your lights to suit your needs and preferences, from bright and energising to soft and relaxing.
  • Smart controls, such as voice-activated assistants or smartphone apps, enable you to control your lights remotely or set schedules for automatic operation.
  • Programmable settings can help you create the perfect ambiance for different activities or times of day, such as a gradual wake-up light in the morning or a warm, dim glow for bedtime.

By incorporating dimmers and smart controls into your bedroom lighting design, you can create a space that is both comfortable and convenient, with the ability to customise your lighting to suit your needs at any time.

Some of our Favourite Bedroom Lights

Common Bedroom Lighting Mistakes to Avoid

When designing your bedroom lighting, it's essential to be aware of common pitfalls that can detract from the overall functionality and aesthetic of the space. By avoiding these mistakes, you can create a bedroom that is both comfortable and visually appealing.One of the most common mistakes is overwhelming the bedroom with too many light fixtures. While it's important to have adequate lighting, too many fixtures can make the space feel cluttered and overstimulating. Instead, focus on selecting a few key fixtures that provide the necessary illumination and complement the room's décor.


Another pitfall to avoid is neglecting task lighting. Without proper task lighting, activities such as reading or applying makeup can be straining on the eyes and detract from the overall comfort of the space. Be sure to incorporate targeted lighting, such as bedside lamps or directional wall sconces, to provide the necessary illumination for these activities.


Failing to consider the colour temperature of your lighting can also be a common mistake. Cool, bright light can be harsh and uninviting in a bedroom setting, while overly warm light may not provide enough illumination for tasks. Opt for warm, soft white light in the 2700k-3000K range to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere while still providing adequate brightness.


Finally, overlooking the importance of dimming capabilities can limit the functionality of your bedroom lighting. Without the ability to adjust the brightness of your lights, it can be difficult to create the right ambiance for different activities or times of day, highlighting the importance of versatile lighting solutions. Incorporate dimmers or smart controls to give you the flexibility to customise your lighting to suit your needs.


By being mindful of these common bedroom lighting mistakes and taking steps to avoid them, you can create a well-designed and functional space that promotes relaxation and comfort.

Conclusion: Bedroom Lighting Ideas

Choosing the right lighting for your bedroom is a critical aspect of creating a space that is both comfortable and functional. By understanding the different types of lighting available, such as ambient, task, and accent lighting, and considering factors like the size and layout of your room, colour temperature and brightness preferences, and overall style and décor, you can design a lighting scheme that perfectly suits your needs.


Incorporating best practices, such as layering your lighting, selecting appropriate fixtures, and using dimmers and smart controls, can help you create a bedroom that is not only visually appealing but also practical and efficient. Additionally, by avoiding common mistakes like overwhelming the space with too many fixtures, neglecting task lighting, or overlooking the importance of dimming capabilities, you can ensure that your bedroom lighting is optimised for relaxation and comfort.


With careful planning and attention to detail, you can transform your bedroom into a beautiful and inviting retreat that promotes rest, relaxation, and overall well-being. Whether you prefer a warm and cosy atmosphere or a bright and invigorating space, the right lighting can help you achieve the perfect ambiance for your needs. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you'll be well on your way to creating a bedroom lighting scheme that is both functional and stylish, and that enhances the overall comfort and enjoyment of your personal sanctuary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many lumens do I need for bedroom lighting?

The number of lumens required for bedroom lighting depends on the size of the room and the desired brightness level. As a general rule, aim for 10-20 lumens per square foot for ambient lighting, and 30-50 lumens per square foot for task lighting areas, such as reading nooks or vanities.

What colour temperature is best for bedroom lighting?

Warm, soft white light in the 2700k-3000K range is generally considered the most conducive to relaxation and comfort in the bedroom. This is especially true for bedside lighting. This colour temperature provides a cosy, inviting atmosphere that promotes rest and tranquillity.

How high should I hang a pendant light over my bed?

When hanging a pendant light over your bed, ensure that the bottom of the fixture is at least 215 cm (2.15 metres) above the floor to allow for clearance when sitting or standing on the bed. Alternatively, aim for 30-50 cm (0.3-0.5 metres) from the top of the mattress to the bottom of the light fixture for optimal illumination and visual appeal.

Can I use LED bulbs in any bedroom light fixture?

Most light fixtures are compatible with LED bulbs, which are energy-efficient and long-lasting. However, it's essential to check the specifications of your chosen fixture to ensure that it can accommodate LED bulbs and that the bulb type and base are compatible.

The Author: David, Founder of ZY Lighting

David, founder of ZY Lighting based in Hurstville, Sydney, brings 15 years of expertise in the lighting industry. His passion for illuminating spaces combines innovation and aesthetics, creating memorable experiences for all his customers and clients.