Design your home like a pro by following my 4 mood-setting lighting rules—but know the right times to break them

It’s time to light up — or at least make sure your home is.

According to an interiors pro, adding the right kind of lighting can elevate your space—and also rebel against the rules.

Kristen Elizabeth, founder of Kristen Elizabeth Interior Designwant to ensure your space matches your unique style.

“Navigating the intricate web of these design details is like deciphering a blueprint, a roadmap for creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also tailor-made to fit your lifestyle,” she said in a post.

She also knows that sometimes you need to deviate from strict guidelines.

“We delve deep into the world of interior design rules – when to follow them and when to break free – empowering you to approach home design with confidence,” she said.

Whatever you do, make sure your lighting gets the attention it deserves.

“When designing your home, lighting can be an afterthought, but it shouldn’t be,” she said.

“Proper lighting is the foundation of interior design, setting the mood and feel of a space while improving the overall aesthetic,” she continued.

Her tips for lighting your home include adding two to three types of lighting sources.

Just be careful – avoid overhead lighting.

She explained how this can lead to unwanted shadows.

Instead, don’t be afraid to mix and match items, including table lamps, floor lamps, pendants and sconces.

This will help add “layered lighting effects” and create a way to control brightness.

Another professional design tip includes using carefully placed dimmers.

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She’s also a fan of task lighting or direct lighting in a specific area.

While this helps brighten things up, she recommends hiding the bulbs themselves.

“Pay attention to the tone of the bulb and select a cohesive color temperature,” she said.

“We recommend warm white tones for an inviting atmosphere,” she continued.

Now it’s time to take those rules and break them.

She explained how there are instances where you can explore your design dark side—at least when it comes to incorporating overhead lighting in a small area like a hallway.

It gives permission to use this type of lighting when it is necessary to see better for cleaning purposes.

It is also allowed to add some sparkle to your kitchen and bathrooms.

“Dimmers also help overhead lighting appear less bright and harsh,” she said.

Kristen previously shared her color scheme tips, including her 60-30-10 rule, which she explained can be used to create a “balanced” space.

She recommends that 60% of your main color be reflected in a space, while 30% of the area should be your secondary tone.

The remaining 10% of the room can be your accent color.

Again, she encourages breaking the rules, sometimes just doing 10% of two “coordinating accent colors.”