Lighting is a critical element to how well the home looks and functions. Inadequate lighting is a common issue, and often caused by incorrect wattage in lamps and outdated overhead fixtures. This can make a room dark, shadowy and uncomfortable.

Do you have trouble reading in a particular room or while working at your desk? Do you sit close to a window for natural light because the lamps and fixtures direct light upward to the ceiling and not down on the room, book or desk? Is the art, décor, or plants hidden in the dark? If any of this applies to you, it’s time to redesign the lighting in your home and upgrade to what you need. It doesn’t have to cost much.

To properly light your home, you need three types of lighting: general, task, and accent.

GENERAL LIGHTING illuminates the entire room. This includes fixtures that hang on or near the ceiling, and Torchiere lamps that stand on the floor and shine their light up and outward. This also includes Track Lighting, Recessed Lighting, Cove Lighting, Chandeliers, and Sconces.

TASK LIGHTING includes table and standing lamps, strip lighting, or track lighting directed to specific areas, and is an essential element for working and reading comfortably. Swing-arm lamps connected to a wall are versatile task lighting, more commonly placed at the bedside or next to a favorite reading chair. Some Torchiere lamps come with combination up and down lights that provide both general and task lighting. Strip lighting is commonly used under kitchen cabinets to light up countertops.

ACCENT LIGHTING is used to highlight artwork, sculptures, trees, and plants. Properly lit art and accessories can dramatically improve the look of these pieces and the overall feel of the room. Collections displayed in bookcases or wall units can be illuminated with individual spotlights or strip lighting under a shelf.

Take these steps to improve the lighting in your home:

• Identify the places where general, task, and/or accent lighting is needed
• Change bulbs to their maximum wattage
• Use three-way bulbs in three-way sockets

Remodeling is not necessary to improve lighting. Visit a local lighting store or well-lit furniture showroom for lamp, fixture, and bulb ideas.