Lighting can make or break the mood, function, and flow of your home. Whether you're sprucing up a historic bungalow in The Gulch, updating a modern kitchen in Green Hills, or reimagining a bathroom in Belle Meade, choosing the right lighting fixtures is key. And it’s not just about what looks good — it’s about smart functionality, energy savings, and safety.
At Mr. Handyman of Nashville, West, South and Central, we help local homeowners take their lighting projects from inspiration to installation. Let’s walk through everything you need to know before flipping the switch.
What to Consider When Choosing Lighting Fixtures
Nashville homes are known for their character — and your lighting should reflect that. Before you buy, ask yourself:
How is the room used?
Task-heavy areas like kitchens and bathrooms need bright, focused lighting. Living rooms and bedrooms benefit from softer, adjustable lighting that adapts to the mood.
What’s your design style?Whether your home is Southern traditional or sleek and contemporary, your lighting fixtures should match the vibe. Think matte black pendants for modern kitchens or antique brass sconces for cozy reading corners.
Is it energy-efficient?
LED bulbs and dimmer switches are a no-brainer for efficiency. They're popular in Brentwood, Hillsboro Village, and other neighborhoods aiming for smart home upgrades.
How big is the space?
A large open-concept living room might need layered lighting — like recessed lights plus floor lamps — while a smaller powder room might only need a stylish wall sconce.
Does the room get natural light?
In sunny spots, you might just need accent lighting. But for windowless bathrooms or shaded hallways, ambient lighting is essential.
How Lighting Affects the Feel of Your Home
Lighting has a powerful impact on how your home feels, not just how it looks. Here’s how to use lighting to control the mood:
Warm vs. Cool Light:
- Warm tones (2,000–3,000K) create a cozy, relaxing atmosphere — perfect for bedrooms, dining rooms, and living spaces.
- Cool tones (3,500–5,000K) are crisp and energizing — ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and workspaces.
Ambient Lighting:
This is your general, overhead lighting — chandeliers, flush mounts, or recessed lights that set the base level of brightness.
Task Lighting:
Focused light where you need it most — like over kitchen counters, bathroom mirrors, or your home office desk.
Accent Lighting:
Used to highlight artwork, architectural details, or built-in shelving. It adds depth and drama to any room.
The Best Fixtures for Each Room
Need help figuring out what goes where? Here’s a local-friendly guide for homes in West Nashville and beyond:
Living Room
- Recessed ceiling lights or flush mounts for ambient lighting
- Table lamps or floor lamps for reading and lounging
- Wall sconces for highlighting shelves or art
Kitchen
- Pendant lights above islands and bars
- Under-cabinet task lighting for counters
- Recessed ceiling lights for full-room coverage
Bedroom
- Dimmable overhead lighting for flexible brightness
- Bedside sconces or table lamps with warm bulbs
- Soft lighting for early mornings and winding down at night
Bathroom
- Bright vanity lights on both sides of the mirror
- Overhead recessed lighting for full illumination
- Cool lighting to help with makeup and grooming tasks
Dining Room
- Statement chandelier or pendant centered over the table
- Dimmable lights to set the mood
- Accent lighting on a buffet or sideboard for added warmth
Hallways & Staircases
- Flush-mount fixtures for safety
- Sconces to create interest
- Motion sensors for nighttime convenience
How Bright Should Each Room Be?
Here’s a simple lumen guide to get your brightness just right:
- Living Room: 1,500–3,000 lumens
- Kitchen: 3,000–4,000 lumens, plus task zones
- Bedroom: 2,000–4,000 lumens
- Bathroom: 4,000–8,000 lumens
- Dining Room: 3,000–6,000 lumens
Remember — adding dimmers gives you complete control, so you’re not locked into one brightness level.
Pulling It All Together
A well-lit home feels thoughtful, welcoming, and functional. Whether you're starting with a single room or planning a full-house lighting makeover, selecting the right fixtures and brightness levels is worth the effort.
Why Nashville Homeowners Choose Mr. Handyman for Lighting Installation
At Mr. Handyman of Nashville, West, South and Central, we handle everything from helping you choose the right fixture to ensuring it’s installed safely, efficiently, and beautifully.
What you can expect:
- Licensed technicians who understand local building codes
- Flawless installation with proper support and electrical safety
- Clean, on-time service with respect for your home
- Smart, energy-efficient suggestions for long-term savings
- Lighting solutions customized for your home’s layout and design
Ready to Light Things Up?
Don’t let outdated or poorly placed lighting hold your home back. Whether you need to install pendant lights in your kitchen or brighten a dark stairwell, Mr. Handyman of Nashville, West, South and Central is here to help. Request service online today and let’s light up your space — the right way.
