How To Select the Right Statement Lighting for Your Home

Proper lighting is often overlooked in home update plans or left until the last minute. But good lighting is crucial for practical and functional reasons—and statement lighting can create ambiance and enhance the atmosphere of your space. In fact, the right lighting fixture can transform a room from ordinary to extraordinary.

Read on to explore tips on how to select and add statement lighting to elevate your home's aesthetic appeal and functionality.

Statement lighting refers to fixtures that go beyond mere illumination, serving as focal points that improve the overall design of a room.

Designs range from traditional to contemporary, allowing homeowners to express their personal style and enhance the architectural elements of their space.

Whether you choose a dramatic chandelier above your bed, hanging pendants over your kitchen island or a conversation piece in the dining room, statement lighting can become a centerpiece of your home.

Statement lighting fixtures come in various forms. Here are a few statement lighting fixtures to consider:

Chandeliers are timeless statement pieces that add elegance and drama to any room. Available in various styles and materials—from classic crystal to modern metal designs—chandeliers can be tailored to suit any decor aesthetic. To maximize impact, place chandeliers in central locations such as dining rooms, entryways or living rooms, where they can serve as striking focal points. Whether you prefer a grand, multitiered fixture or a sleek, minimalist design, chandeliers come in a range of sizes and shapes to complement any space.

Although chandeliers are often large, they don't always produce much light, so you may need to also use recess lighting or lamps to illuminate the room and create task lighting.

Keep in mind that a chandelier over a dining table should be around one-third the width of the table, though oval or rectangular tables can take a slightly wider chandelier.¹

Pendant lights offer versatility and flexibility, making them ideal for various rooms in the home. Whether suspended above kitchen islands, dining tables or bedside nightstands, pendant lights provide focused task lighting while also contributing to the room's ambiance. Cluster multiple pendants together to create a focal point. In smaller rooms, opt for single pendants or linear arrangements to maintain a sense of proportion and avoid overwhelming the space.

When hanging pendant lights, consider the appropriate height to ensure optimal illumination and visual balance within the space. When installing your new pendant lights, adjust the height based on the activity taking place in the room.

For example, lower the pendant for use over a dining table for intimate gatherings, or raise it higher for general illumination. Pendants ideally should have a 30-to-36-inch clearance above tables and countertops.²

You can choose from a range of styles, including sleek and streamlined designs for a modern aesthetic, or ornate and decorative pendants to add a touch of glamour.

Not only are floor lamps functional, but they can also serve as statement pieces, particularly in corners or reading nooks. When selecting a floor lamp, consider the room's size and style to choose a fixture that complements the existing decor.

Opt for adjustable or multidirectional lamps to provide targeted lighting for different activities while adding visual interest to the room. Floor lamps come in diverse styles, ranging from sleek and modern to vintage-inspired designs, allowing homeowners to find the perfect match for their decor aesthetic.

When placing floor lamps, consider the intended purpose of the lighting and the layout of the room. Position floor lamps near seating areas or workspaces to provide task lighting and enhance functionality. You'll also need to make sure the lamps are close to electrical outlets.