Proper indoor lighting can completely transform the atmosphere of a room, from cold and lifeless to warm and welcoming. Unfortunately, many people underestimate its importance in interior design and make avoidable mistakes. In this article, we’ll explore the most common indoor lighting issues and share practical tips to help you avoid them.

1. Relying on a Single Light Source

One of the most frequent mistakes is using only a single ceiling light to illuminate an entire room. This often results in uneven lighting, harsh shadows, and a flat atmosphere.

How to avoid it:
Use layered lighting — a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting. For example, in the living room, pair a ceiling fixture with a floor lamp by the sofa and LED strip lighting behind the TV. This adds depth, comfort, and flexibility to your space.

2. Using the Wrong Color Temperature

Many people choose bulbs randomly without considering color temperature, measured in Kelvins (K). Cool light can make a space feel sterile, while overly warm light can seem dim and dull.

How to avoid it:
Choose color temperature based on the room’s function. For bedrooms and living rooms, go with warm white (2700K–3000K). For kitchens and offices, use neutral to cool white (4000K–5000K), which supports concentration and productivity.

3. Over- or Underlighting a Room

Insufficient lighting can make it hard to read, cook, or work, while overly bright lights can cause eye strain and kill the mood.

How to avoid it:
Match the brightness (lumens) to the room size and purpose. Consider using dimmable lights so you can easily adjust the intensity based on time of day and activity.

4. Poor Positioning of Light Fixtures

Even the most expensive light fixture won't be effective if it's poorly positioned. Think of a pendant light over a dining table that casts shadows on the plates, or a bathroom mirror without adequate side lighting.

How to avoid it:
Plan lighting placement early, ideally during the furnishing phase. Consider how you move through the space and where task lighting is needed — above worktops, near the bed, over the table. Place lights to minimize glare and maximize functionality.

5. Ignoring Natural Light

A common oversight is failing to consider the amount and direction of natural daylight and how it interacts with artificial lighting.

How to avoid it:

Pay attention to how much natural light enters your room and at what times of day. Arrange lighting to complement daylight, not compete with it. Use reflective surfaces and lighter colors to enhance the effect of sunlight.

Final Tips

Lighting is not just a technical decision — it’s a key component of a comfortable and functional home. To avoid common indoor lighting mistakes:

• Plan thoughtfully, not impulsively.
  
  

• Invest in adjustable, quality lighting.
  
  

• Experiment with layers and sources to find the perfect balance.
  

Good lighting will make your home not only more beautiful but also more practical, welcoming, and healthy.