Creative Lighting Ideas For Overhead-Free Bedrooms

There are many ways to light a bedroom without overhead lighting. One option is to use plug-in ceiling pendants, which can be hung from a hook screwed into the ceiling and plugged into an outlet. Floor lamps are another solution, with oversized lamps providing both style and brightness. To maximise natural light, opt for light, breezy curtains and open windows and doors. Desk lamps can also be used to provide additional light in certain areas of the room. Mirrors can be used to reflect light and make the room seem bigger. String lights are a fun, affordable way to add light and create a cosy or bohemian aesthetic. Wall washer sconces are another option for rooms without overhead lighting, as they distribute light evenly without creating shadows.

Floor lamps

To enhance the lighting, you can choose a lampshade that emits more light due to its design, or you may opt for no shade for optimal light. The height of a floor lamp helps illuminate more of your space, and different levels are pleasing to the eye. You can forget all about not having overhead lights! They're easy to assemble and can be moved around if you change your mind or switch up the furniture layout. Floor lamps come in all shapes, sizes, and colours, so let your style and personality shine!

An arc-style floor lamp can mimic the effect of overhead lighting, and an oversized floor lamp will provide lots of light—although this style is best avoided in a smaller space. For an even supply of ambient light, place several floor lamps at regular intervals, such as in the corners of the room. Or, to illuminate a seating area in an atmospheric style, place a pair of matching floor lamps at either end of a sofa. An articulated floor lamp placed by a favourite armchair will pinpoint the light exactly where you need it, while also making a smart style statement.

When choosing lighting for your bedroom, think about the colour, temperature, and brightness of the bulbs, as well as how the shade diffuses light for a softer glow.

Natural light

Curtains and Windows

Opt for light, breezy curtains that allow sunlight to stream into your bedroom. Sheer or lightweight curtains can help to diffuse the light and create a soft, bright atmosphere. Open up the windows to let in fresh air and natural light. Position your furniture away from the windows to ensure that light can fill the room.

Mirrors

Strategically place mirrors to reflect and enhance the natural light. Hang a large mirror opposite a window to reflect the incoming sunlight and mimic the effect of having additional windows. You can also place mirrors behind light sources, such as wall lights or floor lamps, to bounce light around the room and add depth. A full-length mirror behind a stylish floor lamp will extend the light further.

Wall Colour

Choose light and bright colours for your walls, as these will reflect more light and make the space feel airy and spacious. Dark colours tend to absorb light, so they are best avoided if you want to maximise natural light. Consider painting your walls in light neutrals or soft pastel shades to create a bright and welcoming atmosphere.

Accessories

Utilise reflective accessories such as glass or metallic ornaments to bounce light around the room. Strategically place these items near windows or other light sources to enhance the natural light and create interesting light reflections. Additionally, avoid placing large items or furniture in front of windows, as they can block the sunlight from entering the room.

Skylights

If you're open to more permanent solutions, consider installing skylights or roof windows. Skylights can transform your bedroom by flooding it with natural light during the day and offering stunning views of the sky. They are an excellent way to bring the outdoors in and create a bright and airy atmosphere.

Plug-in pendants

Plug-in pendant lights are a great way to add overhead lighting to a bedroom without having to install any permanent fixtures. They are also perfect for renters who want to add lighting without making any major modifications to the property. Here are some tips and options for choosing and using plug-in pendants:

Choosing the Right Plug-in Pendant:

• Consider the style of your bedroom and choose a pendant light that complements the decor. Plug-in pendants come in a variety of styles, including modern, industrial, and farmhouse.
• Decide on the type of light bulb you want to use. Some plug-in pendants come with LED bulbs, while others may require you to purchase bulbs separately.
• Think about the length of the cord. Most plug-in pendants have adjustable cords, but it's important to ensure it's long enough to reach your desired hanging height.
• Look for additional features such as dimmable switches, multiple hanging cords, or unique lampshades to create the desired ambiance.

Installing and Using Plug-in Pendants:

• Install a hook on the ceiling to hang the cord of the pendant light. This is an easy way to create overhead lighting without adding any permanent fixtures.
• If you're concerned about the appearance of the cord, consider using paintable cord covers or choosing a decorative cord that complements your style.
• Plug-in pendants can be used in various places in your bedroom, such as over a bedside table, reading nook, or dressing area.
• Combine plug-in pendants with other types of lighting, such as floor lamps, table lamps, or wall sconces, to create a layered lighting effect in your bedroom.
• Remember to consider the height of your ceiling and the length of the cord when installing the pendant to ensure it hangs at the desired height.

• Yadah 1-Light Cylinder Pendant: This pendant light features a hand-blown frosted glass lampshade and a retro design. It's perfect for a modern, industrial, or farmhouse-style bedroom.
• Ariandne 1-Light Pendant: With a cone-shaped shade and a reflective inner finish, this pendant light provides ample brightness. It hangs from a slim adjustable cord and is compatible with a dimmer switch.
• PATIKIL Plug-in Pendant Light: Featuring a 15-foot rope cord and an ON/OFF switch, this pendant light has a fabric shade and an E26/E27 bulb socket, making it suitable for bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms.
• DEWENWILS Plug-in Pendant Light: This set of two pendant lights comes with a 15-foot clear cord and an ON/OFF switch. The white fabric lampshade makes it ideal for bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms.
• Industrial Plug-in Pendant Light: With a black cage design and an ON/OFF switch, this vintage-style pendant light has an E26 socket and is perfect for kitchens, living rooms, and dining rooms.

Wall sconces

When it comes to ambient lighting, sconces installed high on the wall can flood your bedroom with balanced illumination, making it feel warm and inviting. This type of lighting is ideal for rooms with tall ceilings, as it adds to the overall brightness without creating harsh shadows.

For task lighting, consider positioning wall sconces near your bed or a desk. This will create focused light for reading or other activities that require good visibility. You can also use swing arm or adjustable wall sconces for task lighting, allowing you to direct the light exactly where you need it.

To add drama and interest to your bedroom, use wall sconces for accent lighting. Choose sconces with unique designs, such as opaque shades, to create intriguing light patterns and shadows on your walls. You can also use them to highlight artwork, plants, or architectural features, drawing attention to specific areas of the room.

When selecting wall sconces, you'll find a range of options, from modern to traditional styles. Some sconces have adjustable features, allowing you to direct the light as needed. Others come with decorative elements, like ornamental brackets or attached tables, adding to their functionality and visual appeal.

• CB2 Mantis Siwel Wall Sconce: This mid-century-inspired sconce features a slender neck, glossy brass steel, and a warm walnut-finished plate. It's easy to install and perfect for bedside lighting.
• Jonathan Y Rover Adjustable Wall Sconce: With a swing arm and chrome finish, this affordable sconce can be used for task lighting near your bed, desk, or bookcase.
• Dutton Brown Color Twink Sconce: Available in 14 different shades, this simple yet eye-catching sconce will inject a pop of color into your bedroom.
• Anthropologie Madelyn Capiz Faceted Sconce: Made from capiz shell, this sconce provides a diffused uplight, adding a whimsical and playful touch to your space.
• Visual Comfort Simon Wall Sconce: With its vintage silhouette and adjustable design, this steel sconce is perfect for directing light onto a nightstand or desk in your bedroom.
• Serena & Lily Flynn Single Wall Sconce: The Flynn sconce has a vintage feel with its brass and black hardware. It features a swing arm, making it ideal for reading in bed, and doesn't require hardwiring.
• Lulu & Georgia Pleated Ceramic Wall Sconce: A fusion of traditional and modern design, this sconce combines a ceramic shade, walnut backplate, and brass-finished stem for a touch of warmth and charm.
• West Elm Sculptural 3-Light Faceted Wall Sconce: This simple and minimal sconce provides the perfect amount of lighting for a vanity or bathroom area in your bedroom.
• Anthropologie Henry Sconce: This sconce doubles as a side table, making it perfect for a cozy reading nook or small bedroom. It features a glass shade, brass-finished stem, and an attached hardwood table.

String lights

However, some string lights can be used for full-room lighting. String lights with large, circle-like bulbs, instead of the tiny, cylindrical bulbs that often make up string lights, can provide ample room lighting, especially if you hang them from exposed pipes.

Frequently asked questions