LIGHTING Creating the right lighting in a room requires finding the right combination of function and visual appeal. You don’t want a room that’s too dark, but it may not feel cozy if it’s starkly bright either. Aim to make the most of your lighting by choosing a variety of light fixtures, from floor to table lamps, candles, reading lights, and natural light. Amanda is passionate about the power of lighting in setting the mood of a room saying, “I could talk forever about this! Lighting is so essential to creating a specific vibe … and in the winter when natural light is less available it’s especially important to have good layered lighting to create a cozy atmosphere.” She goes on to explain that different types of lighting have different purposes. “Layered lighting is generally grouped into three main components: ambient, task, and accent lighting. I think accent lighting is the most important for creating cozy winter vibes—consider wall sconces with pretty frosted shades to diffuse any harshness, tasteful string lights that cast dancing shadows around the room, or an end table lamp with a dimmer function that allows you to customize the amount of light based on the time of day or task you are performing.” In addition to the type of lighting you choose, consider where you’re putting it. Make sure areas you use for reading offer some form of task lighting, but when the goal is to create ambiance, think of it more in terms of the room as a whole. Amanda says, “Placement is key with accent lighting! Highlight cozy corners, or position lights near a window or mirror allowing the light to bounce playfully around the room. This can also brighten your space without actually adding more light.”
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