Home decor · Room lighting

Layer ambient and task lights for useful illumination

Place focused light at reading or work areas while reducing glare and unnecessary ambient lighting.

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Lighting works best when it suits the task rather than simply making every corner bright. US Department of Energy guidance recommends task lighting paired with lower ambient levels and useful daylight. Respect fixture ratings and stable placement.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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Identify where reading, writing, cooking or other tasks need focused light.
Use daylight when practical, adjusting coverings if sunlight causes screen glare.
Place a stable task lamp near the work surface, away from edges where it could fall.
Move the lamp or adjust its angle to reduce shadows and reflected glare.
When focused lighting is sufficient, dim or switch off unnecessary overhead lighting.
Use only bulbs rated for the fixture, never cover hot lamps with fabric or paper, and periodically check cables.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

Further reading

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