Light is extremely powerful. It can alter moods, evoke memories, and even be a portal to a whole new world.
Innately aware of the significance of lighting, I'll always detest the super sterile, overhead fluorescent lighting that is found in the vast majority of corporate environments and public facilities. I deplore the aforementioned because they detract from the beauty of the environment they are intended to display and highlight. I can see their purpose in certain structures - light that provides clarity and extreme visibility.
One way to improve the ambiance of your home is to refrain from using overhead lighting. Overhead lighting can be made more bearable by selecting low-wattage, warm-colored bulbs. In my last apartment in Madison, Wisconsin, a one bedroom carved out of what was the library of an old mansion, I once counted my light sources and they numbered close to 20!
I know, that may seem a bit crazy, but it included many small lamps, strings of accent lights, sconces on the wall, and the dreaded overhead lights.
I must admit, I developed combinations that complimented the time of day and present activity amongst other variables.
If you're a user of mainly overhead lighting, I advise you to change it up a bit. String up a set of amber lights around a window; purchase a stained glass lightbulb and put it in a side lamp to highlight something interesting in your home. It will make you happy. I promise.
My most recent life-changing purchase was a Twilight Projector. It projects stars and cloud formations onto the surface of your choice. It comes ready-to-go out of the box-just plug in to begin the magic. It's extremely calming and great to use while listening to music and thinking about whatever may be on your mind.
See below for various types of lighting I've used.
Endless ways to place and experiment with this projector. Seriously the best!
Amber lights provide ample lighting and a soft glow.
Candles definitely up the cozy factor.
Wicker lights spraying geometric shadows onto chevron stenciled wall.
Jazzy is very intrigued by this new addition.
Christmas lighting.
Entryway shadow play.
Stringed lights adding to the mysticism on All Hallow's Eve.
Dotyville bedroom. I learned from the best. My mom and I are the same person; we just differ in age.
Almost all schools have terrible lighting. Bring in some small lamps. Turn off the overheads and let natural light in. Productivity may even increase....
My apartment in Madison, Wisconsin - complete with close to 20 light sources:) I love lamp.