Sure, well-made, beautiful furniture and a strategic layout are important elements of a living room design, but you know what literally sets the mood? Lighting. Here are 15 living room lighting ideas that will brighten up your space!
SEE ALSO: Mid-Century Living Room Ideas To Steal That Effortlessly Retro Style
01. Mini Pendant

If you have a small little niche in your living room, transform it into a reading nook. Take inspiration from this one designed by Corinne Mathern Studio, which features a built-in bench covered in throw pillows and comfy cushions.
02. Fun Lamp Shade

The pleated lemon yellow lampshade in this colorful living room designed by Anna Spiro Design is the cherry on top. Though the fun pillows and ottoman, elegant gilt mirror, and bright blue walls make the space fun and inviting, the lamp is what really makes it pop.
03. Multi-Tiered Pendant

Want to go a little glam without looking too showy? Add in minimal brass accents, like a metal-frame coffee table and eye-catching metallic lighting. This living room is also a good blueprint for small space decorating.
04. Modern Chandelier

Designed by Studio Riga, this blue living room is lit up by a modern white chandelier that contrasts well with the more traditional elements, such as the tufted seating and chesterfield sofa.
05. Paper Shade Pendant

Rice paper shade pendants are as affordable as it gets when it comes to statement lighting that also looks elevated and sleek. They also emit a soft glow. In this living room designed by Leanne Ford Interiors, it complements the all-white aesthetic beautifully.
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06. Matching Fixtures

If you have a super spacious living room, consider breaking it into two distinct sitting areas and creating symmetry by hanging identical light fixtures over each. Take a cue from this Spanish-inspired great room by Madeline Stuart.
07. Sculptural Sconce

Opt for a sculptural sconce that doubles as artwork to spice up your living room wall. It’s an especially effective way to embolden a minimalist living room like this one.
08. Recessed Lighting

Though the classic floor lamp adds some nice task lighting, the recessed lighting in the coffered ceiling is what really brightens up this living room by designer Heather Hilliard, who added some unexpectedly edgy elements.
09. Spotlights

Here, Tamsin Johnson kept the edgy vibe alive with an avant-garde mirror and a low-to-the-ground chrome coffee table. She also added extra lighting by installing sleek black spotlights by the built-ins.
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10. Sconce Lamp

A blue velvet sofa stands out in the family room of a Manhattan apartment designed by the inimitable Miles Redd. The sconce lamp in the corner lights things up without taking up floor space or being shoved awkwardly behind the sofa.
11. DIY Pendant

You don’t have to invest in a super expensive statement piece to have beautiful lighting. Designer Leanne Ford painted the natural IKEA rug and custom-made rope light to coordinate.
12. Drum Pendant

In this eclectic living room designed by Heidi Caillier, the jute rug, wood finishes, and brass accents—particularly the inverted drum pendant—bring plenty of warmth to ensure a cozy, inviting space.
13. Rainbow Sputnik

This fun and playful yet classic living room designed by Kingston Lafferty revolves around the rainbow sputnik chandelier. Sputniks are great for a burst of energy, as the very shape makes them appear to be radiating joy.
14. 3-Headed Floor Lamp

Though understated and neutral in color, this living room designed by Tamsin Johnson incorporates plenty of personality, from the three-tiered arc lamp to the beachy rattan furniture.
15. Whimsical Pendant

If your formal living room is also your family room, you want to make sure it strikes a balance between super comfortable and presentable. Add a fun, eye-catching lighting for an extra punch of whimsy, like the pendant in this Studio DB-designed room.
READ MORE: 20 Minimalist Living Rooms For Lovers Of Streamlined Interior Design
We hope you liked our picks for 15 Living Room Lighting Ideas That Instantly Brighten Things Up. Feel free to pin all the images to your favorite Pinterest board or to print it and use in your mood board. Don’t forget to explore our Pinterest boards for more Living Room Ideas. Subscribe to our newsletter and receive the best tips in your email box.
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