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Your bedroom is a place of sanctuary from the world. It is your haven for rejuvenation and relaxation. And the ambiance of the room should reflect that. One way to help create the feeling you’re looking for is through lighting.

There are three general types of lighting to consider for a room. General or ambient light replaces daylight to provide uniform illumination throughout a room. Accent light is used to highlight and accentuate furnishings, artwork or architectural details, as well as to create drama. Task lighting directs additional light at specific areas or surfaces for tasks like reading in bed.

First think about what you use your bedroom for – is it only sleeping? Or do you read at night? Is your desk or computer in the room? Depending on the way you use your bedroom, you will need different types of lighting.

There are a several types of fixtures to help you achieve the right amount of illumination and set the mood in your bedroom. The following is a brief overview of light fixtures to get you started. Nearly all come in a variety of styles to match your interior design.

• Ceiling fixtures supply a room with general lighting.
• Chandeliers offer general lighting, but depending on the design, they can also provide task lighting directly underneath.
• Recessed lighting can provide general, task or accent lighting inconspicuously, because it is mounted in the ceiling.
• Pendants can provide both task and general lighting. Suspended from the ceiling over a nightstand, it can be an interesting and space-saving alternative to a table lamp.
• Sconces are mounted to the wall and provide general, task and accent lighting. They can create soothing indirect light as well as create dramatic effects on the wall.
• Table lamps can be placed upon nightstands, dressers or a table for general, task and accent lighting. They can easily be moved around to change lighting to meet your needs.
• Floor lamps offer general, task and accent lighting and are easily moved to supplement changes in lighting needs.