3 Ways to Create a Cozy Scene with Lighting

The “Big Light” debate is hefty. There are times when an overhead light should be on full blast—when you’re digging through every nook and cranny to find your phone, using a computer, or trying to decipher the handwritten note your grandmother mailed you. But those times should be few and far between if coziness is your goal. Nailing a snug lighting situation can transform your home into the hygge den you’ve always dreamed of. But it’s easier said than done; the line between “too bright” and “I can’t see where I’m walking” is thin. Below, we’ve created an equation of sorts that will help you settle on your own lighting strategy.

1. Lighting in Multiples

The key here is to play with height—you want lamps that illuminate upward, but also down toward seating. A room with multiple light sources also feels larger. If you’re working with a small space, use different glows to indicate different zones of the room. For example, a living room may have floor lamps hugging low-profile seats, signaling a comfy place to settle in with a book. Table lamps mark workspaces or illuminate curations of tchotchkes on shelves.

And don’t be afraid to play with colors and materials. Glossy bronze plays well with rich hues while chrome can add a touch of modern sophistication. Lampshade texture also plays an important role. Keep things soft (velvet, corduroy) in relaxation zones and lean toward natural materials (linen, cotton) in spaces that require a clear mind.

2. Put Overheads on a Dimmer

Dimmable lighting automatically softens the mood of any room. It says, “Come in, dive into that comfy lounge chair, and stay a while.” There are plenty of lights out there that come with built-in dimming, and you can also install a kit to existing fixtures. The beauty of going this route means you won’t have to take up space with floor and table lamps (unless you want to). Being able to control the mood from a single light washes a space in coziness.

On the flip side, upgrading or replacing your lights can give your space a new personality. Think about where you need illumination the most and strategically place your lamps accordingly. Our favorite unexpected place to add a dimmable lamp? Halfway down a long hallway, and make sure it’s a fun shape or color.

3. Layer in Sconces

Lighting a room isn’t as simple as “one and done.” Layering in multiple types of lighting is the quickest way to achieve your cozy dreams. With furniture, giving pieces a bit of air and space from each other is often necessary. But with lighting, you don’t have to worry about saddling them up too close to each other. This is especially true for wall sconces. Think of lighting like the layers of a painting. Sconces can help highlight a fun wall color in a soft manner, spotlight your favorite piece of art, or brighten a beloved reading corner.