How to Create Mood Lighting

Mood lighting is an important part of home design and decoration. The right lighting can set the tone for any event. Mood lighting should be adjustable and flexible to the occasion in order to maximize your lighting power!

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Light fixtures
• Dimmer switches
• Candles
• Floor lamps

1. Install adjustable lighting fixtures such as high hats. High hats can be adjusted to point in different directions to direct the light to where you want it. They also provide a soft overhead light that is not too harsh.

2. Install dimmer switches on your existing lighting. Dimmer switches will allow you to have complete control over the light level in your rooms allowing you to set the mood lighting for each occasion. Low, soft, lights for an intimate gathering, or bright full on lights for working on projects or kids' birthday parties.

3. Place some floor lamps strategically in each room. Put three way light bulbs in the floor lamps that will let you adjust their brightness. Floor lamps give the feeling of intimacy when overhead lighting falls short.

4. Scatter candles throughout your home. Candles give great mood lighting for any occasion. They add a warmth and glow to your home and even sometimes pleasing scents. Candles are in inexpensive type of mood lighting and come in all sizes, shapes, and colors.

5. Try different colored light bulbs. A red light bulb can add a soft light to a room. Experiment with different colors for different effects.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when using candles. Be sure to keep candles away from other flammable decor and out of the reach of children. Be sure to extinguish candles when you are through.