Lighting does more than just help you see — it shapes the way your home feels. From a cozy reading nook in Smyrna to a bright kitchen in Murfreesboro, the right electrical fixtures can completely transform your space. But with so many styles, brightness levels, and fixture types to choose from, how do you know where to start?
Whether you’re updating a single room or revamping your whole home, this guide from Mr. Handyman of Murfreesboro and Smyrna will help you make smart, stylish lighting decisions that improve both function and mood.
What Should I Consider When Choosing Light Fixtures?
Choosing lighting isn’t just about picking something pretty. In homes across La Vergne, Christiana, and Rockvale, homeowners are learning that the right fixture depends on a few key factors:
Room Function: Think about how the space is used. A kitchen needs bright, focused task lighting, while a living room benefits from softer, ambient light that creates a relaxing atmosphere.
Style: Whether your home leans modern farmhouse or classic Southern charm, your lighting should match your aesthetic. Pendant lights, recessed lighting, and chandeliers each bring their own vibe.
Efficiency: LED bulbs and smart switches are the norm now in Murfreesboro homes. They cut down on power usage and last significantly longer than traditional bulbs.
Room Size: The larger the room, the more layers of lighting you’ll need — ambient, task, and accent. Small bathrooms? A single vanity fixture might do the trick.
Natural Light: Rooms with big windows might only need minimal artificial lighting during the day, while darker spaces demand more comprehensive coverage.
How Lighting Affects the Mood of Your Home
Light is a major player when it comes to setting the mood. Here's how it affects the look and feel of each room:
Warm vs. Cool Lighting:
- Warm tones (2,000–3,000K) are cozy and calm — great for bedrooms and living spaces.
- Cool tones (3,500–5,000K) are crisp and energizing — ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and home offices.
Ambient Lighting:
This is your main source of illumination. Recessed ceiling lights, flush mounts, or chandeliers can help set the tone for the whole room.
Task Lighting:
Focused lighting for specific activities — think under-cabinet lights in the kitchen or sconces by the bathroom mirror.
Accent Lighting:
Spotlights, LED strips, and picture lights highlight architectural features, artwork, or built-ins to add dimension and drama.
Fixture Ideas for Every Room in the House
Not sure what type of lighting to use where? Here’s a room-by-room breakdown for homes in Murfreesboro and Smyrna:
Living Room
- Recessed or ceiling-mounted ambient lighting
- Floor and table lamps for layered effect
- Accent lighting for bookcases or wall art
Kitchen
- Pendant lights above the island
- Recessed lights for general coverage
- Under-cabinet lighting for food prep zones
Bedroom
- Ceiling light with a dimmer
- Bedside sconces or table lamps
- Warm-toned bulbs to promote relaxation
Bathroom
- Vanity lights on both sides of the mirror
- Overhead recessed lighting
- Bright, cool lighting for grooming tasks
Dining Room
- Centered chandelier or pendant over the table
- Wall sconces or buffet lighting for added ambiance
- Dimmable switch for flexibility
Hallways & Staircases
- Flush-mount or semi-flush fixtures
- Sconces or stair lighting for safety
- Motion sensors for convenience
Brightness Matters Too: How Many Lumens Do You Need?
Lumens = brightness. Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right amount:
- Living Room: 1,500–3,000 lumens
- Kitchen: 3,000–4,000 lumens + 800–1,000 for task lighting
- Bedroom: 2,000–4,000 lumens
- Bathroom: 4,000–8,000 lumens
- Dining Room: 3,000–6,000 lumens
Add dimmers where possible to customize brightness for different times of day or activities.
Let Your Lighting Tell the Right Story
Thoughtful lighting adds more than just visibility — it creates warmth, function, and style. Whether you're working with natural wood tones, bold color palettes, or a minimalist white interior, the right lighting can pull everything together beautifully.
Why Trust Mr. Handyman with Lighting Installation?
At Mr. Handyman of Murfreesboro and Smyrna, we go beyond just helping you choose the right fixture. We ensure every light is installed safely, up to code, and tailored to your space and needs.
Here’s how we make your lighting upgrades stress-free:
- Safe, licensed electrical installation
- Energy-efficient recommendations to save you money
- Clean and timely service — no mess, no hassle
- Custom layout advice to suit your home’s design
- Reliable craftsmanship from start to finish
From hanging pendant lights to installing recessed fixtures throughout your home, our team is ready to help.
Schedule Your Lighting Upgrade Today
Ready to light up your home the right way? Request service with Mr. Handyman of Murfreesboro and Smyrna and let our experts take care of the installation, safety, and final finishing touches. We’re here to make your lighting goals a reality.
