Let’s be real: nothing kills the vibe in a room like harsh, overhead lighting. You know the kind—it’s like being in a waiting room or a department store. Not exactly cozy or setting the scene for romance. If your living room feels flat or your bedroom’s missing that chill evening glow, you might just be one lamp away from transforming the whole mood.
Accent lighting is the not-so-secret weapon of great interior design—it sets the tone, creates visual interest, and makes your space feel warm, layered, and lived-in.
But lighting isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different spaces and activities call for different types of lighting. From curling up with a book to hosting a dinner party, your lighting should work for what you’re doing. Here’s how to make smart choices with accent lighting that support your lifestyle and elevate your space.
Decorating With Floor Lamps: Add Function and Style
Decorating with floor lamps is one of the easiest (and least expensive) ways to add soft, ambient light or targeted task lighting to a room. Place a floor lamp next to your favorite reading chair for a cozy book nook or behind a sectional to brighten up a dim corner. A tall floor lamp can also help visually define zones without adding bulk in open-concept rooms.
And don’t underestimate their styling power—floor lamps can draw attention to statement furniture or frame a design element like a chic armchair or art piece. They work double duty as both lighting and styling anchors.
Pro Tip: Look for adjustable or arc-style lamps that let you direct the light exactly where you need it—perfect for reading or spotlighting a piece of art. One or two floor lamps per room is usually enough; just make sure they’re placed to complement your layout and avoid casting awkward shadows.
Decorating With Table Lamps: Style Meets Utility
Table lamps are MVPs when it comes to layering light. They’re ideal for areas where you want softer, more localized lighting, like beside your bed, on a console in the hallway, or at the end of your sofa. Plus, decorative table lamps add personality to your space. Think of them as both light sources and design accents.
They also serve a secret superpower: drawing attention to other decor. Place a table lamp near a curated vignette of coffee table books, a sculptural vase, a decorative mirror, or a framed photo to subtly spotlight the items you love most.
For bedside tables, choose a lamp that’s the right height for bedtime reading—generally, the bottom of the shade should hit around chin level when sitting up. On a living room side table, go for something that balances the other elements without overwhelming your decor.
Lampshades and Light Bulbs: Small Choices, Big Impact
Yes, even the lampshade matters! A translucent fabric shade diffuses light for a soft, cozy glow—great for bedrooms and living spaces. A darker or opaque shade can direct light downward, ideal for reading or focused task lighting. The shape of the shade matters, too: drum shades feel modern, while tapered ones lean traditional.
Now let’s talk bulbs. Warm white bulbs (around 2700K) set a relaxed, inviting mood, perfect for lounging areas. Cooler tones (4000K+) are better when you need to concentrate, like at a desk or kitchen counter. LED bulbs are a smart pick—they’re long-lasting, energy-efficient, and come in various tones.
What About Wall Sconces, LED Strips, and Track Lighting?
Sure, we love a good floor or table lamp—but if you’re really trying to layer your lighting, built-in options like sconces, LED strips, and track lighting can add an extra dimension. Use sconces to frame a mirror or bed, LED strips to light shelves or under cabinets, and track lighting to spotlight artwork or architectural details.
While CORT Furniture Outlet focuses on new and pre-leased lamps and lighting fixtures, these additions can beautifully complement your lamp setup.
Layering Accent Lighting for Depth and Warmth
Want your space to feel finished and thoughtful? It’s all about the layers. Use lighting at different levels and intensities to create depth, avoid shadows, and balance the room. Here’s a cheat sheet:
- Floor lamps provide vertical height and diffuse light across the room.
- Table lamps brighten specific spots like corners, nightstands, or console tables.
- Accent lighting draws attention to your favorite features—art, shelves, or statement furniture.
Use lighting intentionally to direct the eye. A well-placed lamp can subtly highlight the unique wood grain of your coffee table, the texture of your throw blanket, or even a cool retro sideboard. It’s a simple trick with a big visual payoff.
Bonus tip: Mixing warm and cool light sources can help avoid a flat, monotone look. Think of lighting like seasoning—too little, and the room falls flat. Just the right mix? Chef’s kiss.
Create Cozy Spaces With Purposeful Lighting
Lighting isn’t just functional—it’s personal. You need different light for different moments. Here’s how to light with purpose:
- Set up a reading nook: All you need for the perfect reading nook or bedroom seating area is a tall floor lamp, your coziest chair, and a throw blanket—bonus points for a small side table and a candle.
- Perfect the bedside setup: Your lamp should be within easy reach and bright enough to read by, but not so harsh that it jolts you awake. To keep your room zen, consider amber light bulbs rather than cool, warm bulbs.
- Show off your style: Got a vase, plant, or framed piece of artwork you love? Use a table lamp nearby to make it pop.
Affordable Accent Lighting at CORT Furniture Outlet
Is a lamp a decoration? Absolutely—and it can be one of the most impactful. At CORT Furniture Outlet, we offer a wide range of stylish, gently used floor lamps and table lamps that let you express your style and enhance your interior design affordably. Our pre-leased lighting fixtures are professionally cleaned and quality-checked, so you can shop confidently while making a sustainable choice.
The right lighting can completely transform a space, so why settle for dull and outdated? At CORT Furniture Outlet, we offer a stylish selection of new and previously rented lamps at unbeatable prices – up to 70% off of new retail prices.
Whether you’re looking to create a cozy reading nook, brighten up a dim corner, or add a decorative touch to your living room, we have the perfect lighting solutions for less. Shop our outlet online or in person at your local CORT Furniture Outlet today and bring home bright ideas for less!
