Some people think of accent lighting as mood lighting, and it is, but it's much more than that.
In addition to providing atmosphere and influencing mood, accent lighting is used to highlight architectural features and important objects, and to draw attention away from the things that aren't as pleasing. Even though accent lighting can disguise decorating blunders, it's the most forgotten of the three types of lighting.
Some examples of accent lighting are:
- Can lights and uplights
- Picture lights
- Candlelight
- Directed track or recessed lights
- Niche lighting
- Chandeliers with dimmer switches
- Wall sconces
- Lighting inside glass or wire door cabinets
- Light bridges on media furniture
Notice that chandeliers and wall sconces can double as accent lighting, especially when you install dimmer switches. Track and recessed lighting can function as any of the three layers of lighting, depending on how you direct them.
When you plan your accent lighting, ask yourself how you want each room to feel, and which elements you want to highlight or hide.
