In the lighting world, lights are generally categorised into 3 groups. To achieve a look and feels of your space these need to be considered. When I built my first home I was totally ignorant of these and just stuck a lighting outlet smack right in the middle of each room. That might be sufficient if all you want is basic lighting.

Ambient/General Lighting

These are generally to illuminate large areas. When used correctly, ambient light creates a fantastic environment to relax from an overly stressful day or to have a warm conversation with an old friend. Even with general ambient lighting there are different things to consider. A light that spreads all round like a naked globe, a downlight or a light that throws upward to the ceiling. They will achieve very different ambient or tone to the space. For example downlights produces a harsh dual zone. You would get a dark ceiling and a bright flooring because the light shines directly downwards. Wall lights and Up lights are spectacular way of making your rooms feel larger and more open. To do this of course your ceilings have to be of a light colour. Or maybe you might want to be a bit adventurous painting your ceiling with a slightly non neutral colour. A light bulb in the middle of the room to give light to the entire room is a good all rounder. It does a good job spreading the light all over, but you do get a glaring spot in the middle of the room.

Task Lighting

Task lighting is lighting that lights a particular area and makes the completion of a task easier. We all use it. It's in the kitchen for cooking, for food preparations. In the study, on your desk. Reading light. Workshop light. Their lighting coverage is localised. Most are adjustable with gooseneck, or swing arm.

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting, sometimes also called feature light are used to illuminate a particular area or object. It is often used to highlight art or some artifact. You see them lots in museums and art galleries. But you could also use them in your home to accentuate some aspects of your room or spotlight some special collection. These includes backlighting, track lights, recessed lights, and lamps.