Tips on Where to Put Accent Lighting

Any lighting that adds a particular element in your house in the spotlight is called accent lighting. You can use this kind of light to highlight a painting, architectural shapes, or a bookshelf. Not only that, but accent lighting can also add beauty to your garden as well. In this article, we are going to teach you how you can get the most out of accent lighting.

What is Accent Lighting?

There are two categories of lighting, functional lighting and mood lighting. As their name implies, functional lighting is the direct and practical use of light. For example, you use light to illuminate your table or workspace. On the other hand, mood lighting is often used for decorative reasons.

Indirect lighting is mostly used as a mood lighting because you can apply it to give a stylish touch to your interior or to create a cozy ambiance. But indirect lighting can also be functional lighting.

Accent lighting is also in the mood lighting category because it can draw attention to certain things by shining extra light on them. With accent lighting, you can put a plant or a painting in the spotlight. This lighting technique adds aesthetics that can be used to influence the ambiance of your house.

Accent Lighting Techniques

  • Backlighting – The backlighting technique is where you put a light behind an object to add the illusion of depth. When a light is placed around or underneath a thing or place, it is also called backlighting. This lighting technique can also add an element of aura to any room because it creates contrast by coupling dramatic shadows with a haunting glow. The best place to use the backlighting technique is under cabinets, behind screens or paintings, inside alcoves, and underneath steps. The most common light that is used for backlighting is an LED tape light.
  • Uplighting – This lighting technique involves using lighting fixtures to point the light in an upward direction or towards the ceiling. Specific lampshades and silver crown bulbs can deflect light upwards. Select wall lights or scones that are mounted can also direct light upwards. This accent lighting technique can also be used outdoors, and they are often seen from a lighting fixture that is mounted on the ground like a landscape bullet. This can draw attention to scenic views outside, such as sculptures, plants, fountains, or trees. The upward lighting technique is also used to angle decorative lights towards the front of the house.
  • Display Lighting – This lighting technique is where the light is pointed directly onto areas or objects that you want to be prominent in a room. Display lighting is often used to feature objects that are placed in glass-door cabinets or on shelves or alcoves. Display lighting is also used to light beautiful indoor plants, sculptures, and even expensive tableware. 
  • Wall Washing – Wall washing is the lighting accent technique that is accomplished by covering an entire wall with light. This is often used to call attention to the positive features of your room or expand its boundaries. The wall washing effect is usually achieved by mounting recessed track lights, recessed eyeball lights, or other directional light fixtures that are placed above the ceiling.

Tips on Putting Accent Lighting

  • Try Uplighting and Backlighting – Placing a light behind or below an accent wall or a piece of art gives it an added presence and a glamorous effect.
  • Dimmers can help brighten up the room – Dimmers gives you the option of having lights all the way up or all the way down. This means it dimmers can help you control lighting easily, and it enables you to save electricity.
  • Hidden sources of lights are more appealing – Recessed lighting fixture blends perfectly with any décor, especially when it’s placed within the ceiling. With this kind of lighting accent, you won’t have to go out and pick a fixture.
  • A small lighting fixture can make a significant impact – Using a small lighting fixture can help you cut utility cost. You can also amplify the light’s power to have an intensity of a much brighter light.
  • It’s essential to know the difference between incandescent and fluorescent light – Incandescent lights are the common lights that can be found in most homes in the United States. While fluorescent lamps are often found in offices and they have the tendency to last longer, and they are more energy-efficient.