The Glow Up

The Glow Up: A Charleston homeowner’s guide to layering the three main types of lighting (ambient, accent, and task) for maximum design impact.

Ambient

Ambient light refers to the general lighting in a home that creates the overall ambiance with fixtures like chandeliers, pendants, and floor lamps.

Three Light Beaded Rope Chandelier

Charleston Lighting and Interiors

Chandeliers are ceiling suspended with multiple bulbs incorporated into one fixture.

Nubia Pendant

Celadon Home

Pendants add personality and intimate light for a more moody, atmospheric vibe.

Tropical Brass Floor Lamp

J&K Home Furnishings

Table and floor lamps are classic and easy to arrange at different heights for visual variety.

Accent

Accent light comes from smaller, more decorative fixtures like sconces and wall mounts that highlight your home’s artwork and architecture. Sconces are usually used in bathrooms, hallways, and at the bedside.

Whit Wall Sconce

Carolina Lanterns & Lighting

Task

Task lights are just as they sound, increasing your fine detail visibility for various tasks in your most used spaces like the kitchen and bathroom.

Lettie Flush Mount

Shanty Shoppe

Kohler Occasion Semi-Flush Drum

Gateway Supply Co.

This includes recessed or canned lighting built into the ceiling, track lighting installed beneath your upper cabinetry, and flush or semi-flush lights which are typically placed in the middle of a room.