Lighting Function Basics

There are 3 types of lighting that combine to provide your home with a complete lighting plan: task lighting; accent lighting; and ambient or general lighting. A well lit room or space will have a pleasing and effective combination of each type.

Task Lighting

Designed to help you perform specific tasks such as reading, sewing, typing, hobbies, or paperwork. Lamps are commonly used for task lighting because they are portable and flexible. Many task lamps contain halogen bulbs, which provide intense, focused light without glare or shadows. At LampsUSA , we carry hundreds of task lights, most of which can be found in our desk & student or contemporary categories.

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Accent Lighting

Designed to add drama and focus attention within a room. By spot lighting items such as paintings, houseplants, furniture, sculptures, dark corners, fireplaces, etc., you can highlight your room's best features. Accent lighting is most effective when you focus three times as much light on your focal point as the general lighting around it. Track lights, recessed lighting, or wall sconces are often used to provide accent lighting. Portable lamps such as torchieres and small accent lamps can also be used to feature certain areas of your room. At Lamps USA , accent lamps can be found in all categories, especially: decorative lamps and desk & table lamps.

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Ambient or General Lighting

Provides a room with overall illumination. Ambient lighting serves the same function as sunlight, allowing you to see and walk about safely. Table and floor lamps can be strategically placed throughout your home to provide great ambient lighting. Lamps providing ambient lighting can be found in all categories at Lamps USA .

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