Lighting is an important element of home decor. It can change the mood of a room just like it does with the size of the room. In order to create an ambiance in a particular room, you need to know what kind of lighting or light fixture is needed. Generally, there are three types of lighting: ambient, accent, and task.
Ambient lighting is known as "natural light" and is considered the general source of light in a room. This type of lighting isn't bright and doesn't have a glare, it provides enough lighting to be comfortable in a room. In the photo above, the pendant lights would be an example of ambient lighting. This type of lighting can be achieved by a single chandelier or pendant.
(Click the photo to purchase this chandelier)
Accent lighting adds drama by drawing attention to a specific visual interest such as a piece of art. Accent lighting can be accomplished by having three times as much light on the focal point as the general lighting surrounding it. An example of accent lighting would be shining a light on your house to highlight the texture of the home. This type of lighting can be achieved by a spotlight, recessed or track lighting.
Task lighting is a type of lighting that helps with performing a certain task such as reading, cooking, doing homework, and making lists. This type of lighting can be achieved by a single pendant light, recessed, or track lighting. Many people prefer under cabinet lighting or track lighting because it offers enough lighting but it doesn't take away from the ambiance in the room. Task lighting can be paired with Accent lighting to achieve the perfect combination so it doesn't cause eye strain.
(Click the photo to purchase this task light)
A perfect lighting proposal will include all three types of lighting: ambient, accent and task. Ultimately, the type of lighting chosen for a room is up to you and realistically not many people will have all of these lights in one given area (and that's okay). This blog kind of gives you an idea of what types of lighting is available as well as what needs to be achieved to have the perfect room!
Sources:
https://www.americanlightingassoc.com/Lighting-Fundamentals/3-Types-of-Lighting.aspx
http://www.kichler.com/products/category/downlights.aspx
http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/1000/2b/2b65353d-0efc-42c1-913d-da42722bb4e4_1000.jpg
