Ambient Lighting

• Ambient lighting is general purpose lighting that allows you to see in a room after dark. It is usually track lighting, recessed lighting or ceiling-mounted lighting. It is best to have multiple lights at regular intervals so the light is evenly distributed throughout the room. Dimmers are also convenient so the light can be adjusted according to what you need at different times of day.
  
  

Task Lighting

• Task lighting is lighting that illuminates a specific area so you can do something, such as reading at a table or preparing meals in the kitchen. In a living room, for example, lamps are the best light for reading because they focus the light just where you need it. In a kitchen, a series of under-cabinet mounted lights are most effective because they illuminate the counter and stove just where you need the light.
  
  

Accent Lighting

• Accent lighting is mainly decorative, designed to highlight a feature of your home, such as an interesting architectural feature or a work of art. They are designed to illuminate a small area, and are brighter than ambient lights. Accent lights can add drama and style to a room, and are best used sparingly on one or two items per room. Accent lights can be mounted to the ceiling or on the wall above the feature they are to illuminate. The shadows they cast around the works of art or architectural elements add to the appeal.
  
  

Types of Lightbulbs

• There are several options for bulbs for each type of lighting. Fluorescent tubes are efficient, but they are large and thus usually reserved for ceilings or hallways. Compact fluorescent bulbs are commonly used now for different lighting needs, including ambient and task lighting. However, like the tubes they contain mercury, and are dangerous if broken. Halogen lights are commonly used for task lighting, such as under cabinets in the kitchen. They can get quite hot when left on for a long time. The final type is LED lighting, which is very efficient, does not get hot and is safe to use. However, LED lights are expensive. As the price comes down, they are likely to be commonly used.