Say Bye To Overhead Lighting: The Low Effort Swap That Creates A Lush Look

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Choosing the perfect lighting for your space is no easy task. Many default to overhead lighting since having a single ceiling fixture can be very practical. However, this type of lighting tends to make a room feel flat and lacking in character. No shadows mean no atmosphere, and the room ends up feeling like a hospital or warehouse. 

Instead of simply flooding a room with light from above, it's better to create a lush look with accent lighting. It's not always obvious, but there are plenty of overlooked spots in most homes that need better lighting. Accent lighting takes care of these spots without requiring much work, like rewiring or spending thousands on renovations. Just strategically placing light sources in certain areas can completely transform the look and mood of a space, making it feel cozy, luxurious, and straight out of a home design magazine.

Accent lighting introduces layered illumination, drawing directional attention to specific elements in a room. For instance, spotlights can cast a warm glow against a feature wall or wall art. Backlighting adds a dramatic effect to mirrors, while wall sconces give plain walls depth and warmth. Under-cabinet LED lights, on the other hand, double as functional illumination and an aesthetic feature, casting a soft glow that traces the storage solution's form. In a way, accent lights create visual interest with or without overhead lighting, elevating the overall atmosphere in any space with the added touch of warmth and sophistication.

Where to use accent lighting in your home

There are a few types of lights to have in every room, and accent lighting is definitely one of them. You can install accents in almost any space, and the best part is that they can completely change a room's feeling at relatively little cost. However, if you are really going for that luxe or lush vibe, you need to be strategic about where you install accent lights. 

One good example is having sconces on either side of a vanity or hallway mirror. This not only upgrades the room's style but also makes the lighting more flattering when someone uses the mirror. In the kitchen and living room, LED lighting strips wrapped beneath shelves or cabinets can illuminate adjacent surfaces such as countertops and backsplashes, making the area feel warmer and more stylish without a complete remodel. 

If you are looking to add some accent lighting to similar areas of your home, consider non-hardwired lighting fixtures, as they are easier to install and maintain. Ovyiech's Rechargeable Wall Sconces, for instance, are the perfect additions to any bathroom or hallway. They come with pleated shades, dimmable lights, and in sets of two. The Echosari Battery-Powered LED Strip Lights are another option and come with self-adhesive backs for easy installation on any cabinetry.

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