19 bedroom lighting ideas to create a calm, restful space
Take a look at these bedroom lighting ideas for inspiration on how to make your sleeping space the best lit it can be – from traditional styles to a more contemporary vibe
Considering bedroom lighting ideas can sometimes be overlooked – but if you get bedroom lighting wrong, rather than creating a relaxing sleeping area, you could potentially end up with a space that feel cold or sterile.
"Bedrooms are the perfect place to introduce a little luxury," explains Peter Legg, new product development manager at Dar Lighting. "These rooms aren’t as bound by practicality and ceiling height as hallways or living rooms, where there’s often a lot of movement."
Never underestimate the important of good lighting design and the effect it can have on how you feel about a space. Not only does bedroom lighting have the power to relax, but it can also be used invigorate you as they day begins. It can also be used to zone various spaces in the room if you require the space to multitask.
Whether you are after master bedroom ideas, want ways of illuminating a child's bedroom or are thinking about creating a new guest bedroom, our collection of bedroom lighting ideas is sure to provide plenty of inspiration.
1. Keep it classic with your bedroom lighting ideas
Fresh, unobtrusive and classic in their design, glass lamps and light fittings are perfect for bedrooms, explains Mary Buchanan, creative director and board director of Laura Ashley Lighting and Mirrors.
"Clear class or crystal pieces add a touch of elegance to any composition and are the best for reflecting light around the room – this is true of table lamps too, keep an eye out for those with clear vase bases which give you scale without being heavy,” she adds.
2. Layer pendant lights to add a focal point
"Placing pendants over the bed will give you more flexibility, as you can opt for a lower, more dramatic drop," says Peter Legg. "Alternatively, semi-flushes look just as good there, too. This central focus can then be built upon. Balance and layer the lighting with a pair of bedside lamps or a floor lamp next to an accent chair. Choose a layout that doesn’t clutter the space but gives you the illumination you need.”
3. Use statement lighting in a bedroom
A bold bedroom lighting idea which really lets the fittings take centre stage is perfect if you are seeking modern bedroom ideas. Rather than focusing on just one statement piece, why not combine several stand-out light fittings to draw the eye to various spots in the room, as has been done here.
Mary Buchanan of Laura Ashley Lighting and Mirrors, advises: “Start with your ceiling light as this is the hero piece within the bedroom. Despite being your main light source, this light will likely spend more time off than on: think of it as a decorative ornament that should look pleasing when both lit or unlit. Placing this light directly above the middle of the bed will draw the eye immediately to this focal point and invite you to dive into your cosy bed.”
4. A softer industrial look
While the industrial look is a popular one in the world of interiors right now, it can be a little harsh and edgy for bedrooms.
But if you manage to introduce subtle hints of industrial lighting rather than going all in, this can create a nod to this kind of design without the harshness of it.
5. A luxury look
The lighting in this master bedroom idea is one of full-on glamour. Choose a glimmering oversized central pendant light and combine it with with a pair of striking wall lights either side of the bed for maximum impact.
"Chandeliers or low-hanging pendants over bedsides are indulgent touches that can be added confidently. Choose bold designs with textured elements and combine them with an upholstered headboard and quilted throw for a sumptuous scheme," says Peter Legg from Dar Lighting.
Shop wall lights on Argos
Made from satin nickel, this wall light has a glass bottle shade with bubbles in the glass for a subtle lighting pattern on the wall .
6. The disappearing reading light
A good reading light is essential in the bedroom — it should be easy to operate from your bed and, if you are sharing your bedroom with anyone, you want one on either side of the bed to avoid arguments over leaving the light on too long.
A reading light will need to be operated from the light itself so opt for either wall lights with an individual switches or table lamps.
7. Set your overhead light off-centre
There is absolutely no rule to say that a pendant light has to be hung centrally – in fact in the bedroom it can often make more sense to hang it to one side of the bed as opposed to directly over it, where it can shine a rather harsh light over the sleeping zone.
This can be particularly true where a bedroom has a darker side to it that isn't illuminated as well by natural lighting.
8. A dreamy children's bedroom lighting idea
Kids' rooms are the perfect place to let your imagination run wild, so do consider fitting lights with a whimsical feel.
"Small bedrooms should be sensitively lit. Adding wall lights will help the space feel brighter and larger. Pendant lights dropped from ceiling height can also be brilliant solutions for those who don’t have room for a traditional bedside," says Peter Legg from Dar Lighting. "Try using ribbed or coloured shades for a subtle pop of personality. Alternatively, opt for a sculptural semi-flush to draw the eye upwards and add dimension to the room. "
9. Keep it classic with a pair of bedside lamps
It might not be a new idea, but using a pair of matching bedside lamps on either side of the bed is a popular bedroom lighting idea for good reason, allowing each side a choice for when to turn their light out.
"When designing a guest room, it’s important to remember that the majority of time spent in this space will be used for relaxation, so choosing classic lighting is best," explains Peter Legg, new product development manager at Dar Lighting.
"To create that staycation feel, opt for a luxurious velvet shade or crystal semi-flush in the middle of the room and then team it with complementary bedside lamps."
He adds: "Alternatively, use wall lights with supplementary focused LED reading lamps for a modern hotel look. Pendant lights dropped from ceiling height can also be brilliant solutions for those who don’t have room for a traditional bedside; try using ribbed or coloured shades for a subtle pop of personality."
10. Get the London look
Conjure up a sense of city chic by choosing bedroom lighting in shades such as black and gold, and use fittings that can be angled to create maximum impact and illumination exactly where you want it. Directional lighting is a particularly good idea in bedrooms, allowing you to avoid it shining in your eyes when reading and also to point it away from any windows with great night time views.
11. Bedroom lighting for sloping ceilings
Bedrooms in loft conversions or those with sloping ceilings can be tricky places to light. There are several options – you could fit recessed downlighters into the ceiling, providing they are adjustable. Alternatively, use hanging pendants, as has been done here.
12. Match bold bedroom wallpaper with your lights
Forget the old myth that a bold wallpaper means playing it safe elsewhere in your decoration choices. Pairing busy patterns and zingy wall colours with bright statement wall lights actually works really well.
To be successful, pick out one colour used elsewhere in your room and use it for your light fittings – and keep the shape and form of your light simple.
13. Art Deco bedroom lights
This beautifully sophisticated bedroom scheme has some wonderfully Art Deco lines and elements going on.
From the elegant blue and orange colour scheme and opulent padded headboard, to the geometric pattern of the rug – this is a highly stylised space.
14. The perfect bedroom window treatment
Don't forget to consider your natural light sources when designing a bedroom lighting scheme. While it is undoubtedly lovely to have large windows and a space that is flooded with sunlight, there are times when you need privacy as well as a way to keep the room dark.
One of the best window treatments for bedrooms is shutters – they look fresh and elegant, allow you to control the amount of light entering a space and can be folded away, right back to the wall, when not in use.
15. Keep your bedside table clutter free
In small bedrooms, where there isn't much space either side of the bed for large bedside tables and lamps, it makes much more sense to fit wall lamps.
These can either be operated by a pull cord or integral switch, and others can be fitted to be operated via two separate switches – one by the bed and another by the door.
16. Use layered lighting in the bedroom
Using layers of light, all from different sources and with a distinct purpose, is a good idea in every space within your home, but in bedrooms it is particularly useful.
Lighting can be separated into different 'types' including task lighting and general. In the bedroom, you need a combination of these various types - you may need light for reading, dressing, applying make-up and all of this would fall under the duty of task lighting. Then there is general lighting, for every day illumination – pendant lights and downlighters are good examples.
Accent lighting is used to highlight features and to create moods – picture lights and hidden LEDs are great for this.
16. Keep it simple and serene
If you would prefer a more laid back, unfussy look in your bedroom, or are after an easy and inexpensive way to light the space – perhaps in a guest bedroom – a pair of stylish yet simple bedside lamps is all you need.
“Bedside lamps can provide a lower level light and better set the mood for smaller spaces. Using a warm, white light is more soothing for the eyes, and opting for an LED Amber light has been known to preserve your body’s natural levels of melatonin which aid the sleep-wake cycle," says Mary Buchanan.
17. Create a natural bedroom look
Take the time to think about the materials you use in your bedroom design, as well as its layout.
If you want to create a fresh, pared-back feel – ideal in a relaxing space – focus on using natural materials, such as linen, wood and wicker.
18. Swap bedside lamps for pendants
There is no reason why your bedside lights have to come in the form of table lamps – or wall lights for that matter.
Why not consider hanging two pendant lights, low down, either side of the bed instead? This will keep your bedside tables clutter free as well as making a stylish statement.
“If there’s no need to allow for head height with lights above the bed, you can be playful with your style and size choice," says Mary Buchanan. "A chandelier or oversized pendant brings a sense of majesty to any room. Just remember heavy lights may need an extra support brace."
19. An updated classic scheme
Strong symmetrical lines? Check. Sturdy four-poster bed? Check. Traditional bedroom scheme? Nope. Classic style has endured for good reason – it is pleasing to the eye, ideal for conjuring up a soothing feel and easy to pair with bolder accessories.
Fixing bedroom lighting in a symmetrical layout is a brilliant idea – but by using contemporary, exciting fittings, there is no reason it should feel conformist.
There are plenty of lighting styles to choose from when selecting bedroom lighting.
"When choosing a centre light, indulge with a luxurious velvet shade or crystal pendant light. These added details will give the room a boutique feel and create a sanctuary that calls out for slumber," says Peter Legg.
And if you're still puzzling over which type of lighting to choose you can read more on ceiling lighting in our guide as well as lighting low ceilings and the latest lighting trends.
Get the Homebuilding & Renovating Newsletter
Bring your dream home to life with expert advice, how to guides and design inspiration. Sign up for our newsletter and get two free tickets to a Homebuilding & Renovating Show near you.
Natasha is Homebuilding & Renovating’s Associate Content Editor and has been a member of the team for over two decades. An experienced journalist and renovation expert, she has written for a number of homes titles. Over the years Natasha has renovated and carried out a side extension to a Victorian terrace. She is currently living in the rural Edwardian cottage she renovated and extended on a largely DIY basis, living on site for the duration of the project. She is now looking for her next project — something which is proving far harder than she thought it would be.