A Complete Bedroom Lighting Guide

Bedroom lighting is more than just illumination: it transforms your space into a comfortable and functional retreat. Whether you need bright lighting for tasks or a soft glow for relaxation, the right bedroom light fittings make all the difference.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

  • How to layer your bedroom lighting for balance and style.
  • The best bedroom ceiling lights, bedside sconces, and lamps for your space.
  • How to choose the right bedroom light fittings based on room size.
  • Expert tips to create a modern and inviting bedroom lighting setup.

From statement chandeliers to practical bedside lamps, IOS Lighting makes it easy to find the perfect lights for a bedroom. Let’s explore how to design a lighting setup that blends comfort, function and style.

Layer Your Bedroom Lighting

Our most important recommendation is to layer your bedroom lighting. By layer, we mean combining different light sources throughout your room to serve their own unique purposes. Instead of relying on just one overhead light, layering creates a balanced, convenient visually appealing space.

The Three Necessary Layers

Task Lighting – Focused lighting for specific activities, such as reading or getting ready (e.g., bedside sconces and desk lamps).

Decorative Lighting – Decorative lighting is considered your “bedroom’s jewellery.” This is where you can let your personality and taste show. Anything from stand-out chandeliers to a sculptured bed lamp fits this category. To achieve a modern feel, LED lights can be used under beds or behind TVs.

Ambient Lighting – This is the general illumination to light up your room for everyday use. You have choices of bedroom ceiling lights and recessed lighting for this layer.

Include Lamps in Your Bedroom Lighting

Lamps are a crucial part of bedroom lighting, offering both task lighting and decorative lighting. Rather than solely relying on harsh overhead lights, lamps provide a soft gentle glow, perfect for a relaxing night.

Whether placed on a bedside table, a dresser or even the floor, lamps allow you to adjust the lighting to suit your preference. Bedside sconces or table lamps with dimmable bulbs are ideal for bedtime reading or study tasks.

Choose Bedside Sconces for Shared Bedrooms 

For couples, bedside sconces with individual switches are the perfect addition to bedroom lighting. They offer personalised atmospheres that cater to both partners’ preferences. 

One of you can enjoy focused task lighting for reading, while the other snuggles up in the darker space to simply relax. Unlike overhead lights, bedside sconces create a cosy atmosphere without flooding the whole room with brightness. This makes them ideal for shared spaces.

Consider the Size of Your Bedroom

Scale is key. The size of your room should determine the type, placement and size of your bedroom light fittings. A poorly chosen light can overwhelm or underwhelm a space, affecting both aesthetics and practicality.

In smaller bedrooms (9-12 square metres), a large chandelier or a pendant light that hangs too low can feel intrusive. The result is a bedroom that appears cramped and disproportionate. Ceiling pendant lights should hang at least 7 feet (213 cm) from the floor to prevent them from becoming a visual obstruction.

Similarly, bedside sconces or lamps should align with the scale of your furniture. A lamp that’s too tall can create an invasive glare, while one that’s too small may not provide enough light for tasks. 

As a general rule, the base of a bedside lamp should be level with your mattress. The shade or bulb should sit around 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) from the tabletop to avoid overpowering the space.

Key Takeaways: How to Light Your Bedroom Perfectly

  • Layer your bedroom lighting with task, decorative and ambient lighting.
  • Use lamps for soft, adjustable lighting instead of relying on harsh overhead lights.
  • Bedside sconces offer great space-saving and customisable lighting options.
  • Choose the right bedroom light fittings based on room size to avoid overpowering or under-lighting the space.

Create Your Dream Bedroom With IOS Lighting

At IOS Lighting, we’re proud to offer a wide range of bedroom lighting solutions to suit every style and preference. Whether you’re looking for elegant bedside sconces, statement ceiling lights or versatile lamps, we have you covered.

Browse our collection online or visit us in-store to explore our home of lighting in person. 

Contact us today to begin making your dream bedroom.