Accent Lighting: How to Use It to Elevate Your Home's Style
Accent lighting is one of the most powerful tools in interior design, allowing homeowners to highlight architectural features, artwork, or specific areas of a room to create depth and visual interest. While it might seem subtle, the effect it creates can dramatically transform the mood and aesthetic of a space.
In this article, we'll explore what accent lighting is, how to use it effectively, and where to find expert tips, including helpful resources like decoratoradvice .com to perfect your lighting design.
Accent lighting is a type of lighting that draws attention to a particular object, area, or architectural element. Unlike ambient lighting, which provides general illumination, or task lighting, which helps with activities like reading or cooking, accent lighting is primarily decorative. Its purpose is to add dimension and enhance the visual appeal of your interior.
Here are several ways to incorporate accent lighting in your home:
Wall-mounted spotlights or track lighting can beautifully illuminate paintings, sculptures, or decorative shelving. By directing a focused beam of light, you can emphasize textures and colors that might go unnoticed under regular lighting.
Accent lighting works well to underline architectural details like brick walls, arched doorways, built-in bookcases, or exposed beams. Recessed or uplighting can be installed to create dramatic shadows and highlights.
Exterior accent lights can showcase landscaping, garden features, or the facade of your home. Path lights, uplights on trees, or spotlights on fountains can enhance curb appeal and safety.
LED strip lights under cabinets, shelves, or behind mirrors can give your kitchen, bathroom, or living room a modern, sleek look. This kind of accent lighting is not only stylish but functional as well.
The effectiveness of accent lighting largely depends on the type of fixture you choose. Here are some popular options: Track lights: Adjustable and perfect for art displays or gallery walls.
Adjustable and perfect for art displays or gallery walls. Wall sconces: Great for framing a mirror or highlighting a hallway.
Great for framing a mirror or highlighting a hallway. Recessed lighting: Subtle and space-saving, ideal for ceilings or niches.
Subtle and space-saving, ideal for ceilings or niches. LED strips: Versatile and easy to install behind furniture or cabinetry.
When selecting lighting, always consider the color temperature (warm vs. cool), beam angle, and the intensity of the light to ensure it complements your existing decor. Layer your lighting: Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting for a balanced look.
Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting for a balanced look. Use dimmers: They allow you to control the intensity and mood of your space.
They allow you to control the intensity and mood of your space. Avoid overuse: Too much accent lighting can become distracting. Focus on a few key features.
Too much accent lighting can become distracting. Focus on a few key features. Test placement: Use temporary fixtures or flashlights to preview how the light will look.
If you want to enhance your home's interior design, expert resources like decoratoradvice .com provide in-depth articles, ideas, an d product recommendations for accent lighting and other décor strategies. Whether you're redecorating a single room or undertaking a complete renovation, getting advice from professionals can save time and money and ensure a polished final result.
Accent lighting is more than just a decorative flourish; it's a strategic design choice that adds personality and sophistication to your home. You can create a space that feels inviting, stylish, and uniquely yours by highlighting the right areas and using the proper fixtures.
TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Scotsman
3 hours ago
- Scotsman
Christmas at the Botanics returns, promising new lights, enchanting sounds and a touch of romance
Festive fans can get a head start on the season as tickets go on sale for one of Scotland's most popular winter attractions – Christmas at the Botanics. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Now in its ninth year, the beloved light trail will once again bring winter magic to the season, transforming the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh into an immersive world of light, colour, and festive cheer. Last year, the trail welcomed over 92,000 visitors – confirming its status as a must-see festive experience in Scotland's capita Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Running from November 20 to December 30, this year's trail will run for 36 nights, featuring three dedicated quiet nights. These offer a more relaxed and accessible environment for those who prefer a calmer atmosphere, allowing everyone to experience the wonder. Capture the love this festive season by snapping a picture in the Heart Arch Walk. This year's after-dark spectacle invites visitors to explore both new bespoke installations and returning fan favourites. Among them are the cherished Santa sightings and iconic Christmas Cathedral, which will feature an enchanting new twinkle effect. New installations confirmed for 2025 include: Night Birds – featuring a flock of five oversized birds that spread their brilliant neon-lit feathers wide to illuminate the night sky. Created by Michael Young. Heart Arch Walk – a tunnel of love made from large LED hearts that set the Christmas mood with a jolly red glow, creating another perfect picture spot on the trail. Created by ArtAV. Night Birds soar above, spreading their neon-lit wings across the dark winter sky. Laser Lights – displaying thousands of slowly rotating coloured laser beams that burst through an atmospheric fog, this installation brings a truly immersive experience to the trail. Created by Culture Creative. Each piece has been curated not only for its visual impact but also for its low-energy design and environmental sensitivity to the Botanics' historic surroundings. Regius Keeper of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Simon Milne said: 'Each year, our trail organisers work tirelessly to transform our Garden into an exciting nocturnal showcase, and this year is no exception. Visitors can experience the Garden from a fresh perspective, discovering new artistic installations and cherished favourites amongst our incredible collection of plants. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Every ticket sold for Christmas at the Botanics supports our vital work in conservation, research and education, helping us to protect the world's plants for future generations. If you're looking for outdoor fun with friends and family this winter, join us on the trail and immerse yourself in the festivities while making a difference.' The immersive Laser Lights shoot colourful beams through theatrical fog effects. Tickets for this year's show are on sale now. With limited slots and popular dates expected to sell out, early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. For further ticket information, pricing, and timings, please visit Christmas at the Botanics is one of 12 illuminated trails staged across the UK by leading events promoter Raymond Gubbay Limited, a division of Sony Music. Christmas at the Botanics is presented in partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and creative producer Culture Creative. For more details visit and follow @mychristmastrails on Facebook and Instagram.
Buzz Feed
3 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
21 Must-Have Home Deals On Amazon This Week
70% off a pack of solar string lights so your backyard looks like something straight out of a magazine spread, without adding a dime to your power bill. These shatterproof, weatherproof LED bulbs glow for 20+ hours on a full charge, so the vibe stays strong long after the sun calls it quits. Promising review: "Let's start with the fact that the bulbs are weatherproof and shatter resistant, and yes, I tested that out. I love the fact that you have the option to plug it in or use solar power. I have it going around my gazebo, which is in an octagon shape, and it covers the entire gazebo. It has hooks on the back of the bulbs for easy hanging. The light is like a warm glow, which is exactly the type of vibe I wanted." —ladytazzPrice: $23.99 (originally $79.99). 35% off a 15-piece set of airtight food containers because seeing is believing when it comes to what's in your pantry. These transparent wonders keep your food fresh and your shelves organized, allowing you to easily spot what you need while making sure everything from grains to snacks stays in pristine, ready-to-eat condition. Promising review: "I ordered this set to continue on the road to an organized pantry. There are enough containers and a variety of sizes to make me happy. I have stored pasta and noodles, dried beans, rice, sugar, instant mashed potatoes, crackers, etc. When I open a box of something, I put whatever is unused into one of the containers and feel very secure that the contents will be fresh and protected from any possible insect problems." —R MPrice: $25.63 (originally $$39.21; available in three different lid colors). 25% off a portable Sonos speaker (its lowest price ever!) for taking high-end sound with you from backyard hangs to beach days. It's waterproof, drop-resistant, and gives you up to 10 hours of play on a single charge. Promising review: "The Sonos Roam 2 is hands-down one of the best portable speakers I've ever owned. It packs incredible sound quality into a small, rugged design that's perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. Setup was super easy — just a few taps in the Sonos app, and it connected instantly via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The battery life is solid, lasting me all day on a single charge. Plus, the fast charging feature means less downtime between uses. I love the durability too: it's waterproof and dustproof, so I never have to worry about taking it outside or near water. Highly recommend!" —Lauren Price: $134 (originally $179; available in black or white). $50 off a Dreo portable AC unit that'll cool off your bedroom and your temper, because nothing tests your patience like trying to sleep through a summer heatwave. It's quiet (just 45dB!), doesn't need a drainage hose (in most climates), and you can control it with an app, your voice, or your finger. Promising review: "WOW! This is the absolute coolest air conditioner I've ever used! I have fans that are way, way louder than this machine. I went with a less expensive model from a different brand, but it didn't work as it should, and I had to send it back. I decided to up my game and splurged a little more and bought this! Man, I am thrilled I did! I set it to the lowest temp of 61° in a 70° room to see what it could do. Left the room, came back not quite an hour later, and it was down to 62°....brrrrr! Love all the features and the app. Everything works as intended! I would buy this unit over and over again." —Marezy24 Price: $389.95 (originally $439.99; available in black or white). 45% off a smart bird feeder so you can spy on your feathered guests from the comfort of your sofa. It captures HD video, sends motion alerts, and can even use AI to ID your visitors (through a monthly subscription), so you can finally confirm if that was a cardinal or just a very confident sparrow. Promising review: "I am beyond impressed with this bird feeder! It has completely transformed my birdwatching experience. The built-in camera allows me to watch birds in real-time through my phone, which is amazing for identifying different species. The feeder itself is well-designed, with a durable build and easy setup. I love how it sends notifications when birds are feeding, so I never miss a moment. Plus, the camera quality is crystal clear, even during low light. The bird feeder is also easy to refill and clean. It's such a fun, innovative way to connect with nature, and I highly recommend it to any bird enthusiast!" —Chase SaxtonPrice: $109.98 (originally $199.99; available in blue or yellow). 38% off a set of blackout curtains that have dropped back to the lowest price ever. Great for anyone who wants a dark, quiet, drama-free room at 2 p.m. The thick linen blend blocks out sunlight, helps with insulation, and even muffles noise, so you can nap, work, or zone out in peace. Promising review: "These are well made and beautifully lined in a soft grey, as opposed to many that are lined in actual black. They will look as good from the outside as inside! Beautiful fabric and texture. Not like most blackouts that are polyester and one solid shade." —JoanF Price: $24.84+ (originally $39.99+; available in 14 sizes and 27 colors). 25% off a Ring outdoor cam that'll let you keep tabs on your front porch, side yard, or snack-stealing raccoons. It's battery-powered, weather-resistant, and lets you see, hear, and talk to visitors in real time, all with the hlep of Alexa and a little Wi-Fi magic. Promising review: "Loving these cameras right now! I bought two of these since we already have a Ring Doorbell, and I absolutely love them. They are so much easier to install since they are wireless — you can literally mount them anywhere! The video quality is very clear, and if you need to, you could see a license plate on a car. It does everything a Ring Doorbell does but more. These cameras will connect to your app and you can see them and all of your other Ring products in one spot!" —Michelle Price: $59.99 (originally $79.99). 40% off a chenille bathroom rug to turn your post-shower shuffle into a spa-like experience because it's plush, quick-drying, and ultra-absorbent. With rubber backing and a machine-washable design, it's the bathroom upgrade you didn't know you needed but won't be able to live without after you plop it down on your floor and give it a try. Promising review: "These are so very thick and plush, I highly recommend them. They are very durable and hold up in the dryer. They look good. A plus for me is if you spill bleach on it, it will not hold very much at all! They are great for the bathroom and do not slip." —DJ Price: $8.97+ (originally $14.98+; available in 35 colors over 20 sizes). 50% off a 230-piece Craftsman tool set that'll make you look wildly competent, even if you just need to tighten a wobbly chair. It comes in a stackable, locking case with every socket, wrench, and speciality bit you could dream of, plus a low-profile ratchet that fits into the kind of spaces your hand definitely doesn't. Promising review: "I love the quality and strength of these tools. It has been a major upgrade from what I had before. I love that it doesn't weigh much; I can throw it on the back of the truck and go. It has slip resistance so it won't slide around, and you can lock the drawers so they won't pop out either. The design stores the three different drive sizes, which is super convenient. It's also modular, so you can add it to your tool case, which is very functional in my case." —David Price: $99 (originally $199.99). 27% off a 25-piece drawer organizer set that's back to its lowest price ever of $16.14. There are four different sizes *and* they stack, so it's basically choose-your-own adventure for your pens, tweezers, batteries, paperclips, rogue hair ties, and whatever mystery items are floating around. Promising review: "I absolutely love these acrylic organizers! I used them to store my bows, claw clips, and headbands, and they've made such a difference in keeping everything neat and easy to find. The clear design is super sleek and lets me see all my accessories at a glance, which makes getting ready so much faster." —Soledad MartinezPrice: $16.14 (originally $21.99; available in eight colors). $200 off a Traeger wood pellet grill for anyone who thinks grilling should taste like actual fire instead of disappointment. With 884 square inches of cooking space and six functions in one, it can grill, smoke, roast, bake, braise, and BBQ like it's running a backyard restaurant, no propane tanks or charcoal bags in sight. Promising review: "Absolutely perfect! My husband and I have been wanting a smoker for so long, and when this came on sale, we had to have it. It's so easy to use and we put it together in less than an hour. It holds the heat well and is the perfect size for what we like to do to. We love to entertain and it can hold so much food. Definitely recommend the purchase." —Sylvia S. Price: $499.99 (originally $699.99). 46% off an Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus tablet that checks every box for streaming, scrolling, reading, and kid-wrangling, all for way less than you'd expect. With a faster processor, wireless charging, and up to 13 hours of battery life, it's built for the whole family (and somehow still cheaper than a fancy dinner out). Promising review: "I don't see how you can beat this tablet, especially at this price. I wanted a super light tablet, mostly to read with, and watch some movies. I love the built-in blue filter and was surprised to learn that it works with me! It's light, durable, and even plays my FLAC music files. And I may be old-fashioned, but I really like the earphone port. I hope that never goes away." —EcyclerPrice: $64.99 (originally $119.99). 25% off a silk pillowcase for giving your hair and skin a fighting chance overnight. This cover is smooth, breathable, and naturally cool to the touch, with less friction than your average cotton case, so your strands and face might actually cooperate in the morning. Promising review: "I'm in love with my mulberry silk pillowcase! It's so luxurious and soft, I feel like I'm sleeping on a cloud. My skin and hair have never looked better; it's reduced frizz and prevented breakouts. The quality is top-notch, too; it's durable and gentle on my skin. Highly recommend for a beauty sleep upgrade! 5 stars!" —Arielle P Price: $8.99+ (originally $11.99+). 25% off a five-position lounge chair, which is back down to the lowest price we've seen of $149.99. It'll fully support your reading, sunbathing, napping, and iced-coffee sipping agenda. It's weather resistant, rolls like a dream, and even has a cupholder. Promising review: "This is been the most comfortable piece of patio furniture we have purchased in the last five years! It's very comfortable. I am five feet tall and have back issues, and this thing makes my back feel great!" —Cyndi Price: $149.99 (originally $199.99). 25% off a dehumidifier — the highest discount it ever gets. It quietly pulls moisture from the air, shuts off when full, and cycles through seven soothing colors so you can achieve serene spa zone vibes. Promising review: "This little dehumidifier packs a punch! I've been using it in my bedroom and occasionally in the basement, and it has made a huge difference in the air quality — no more damp smell or humidity buildup. It's super quiet, which is a big deal for me since I'm a light sleeper. I can leave it running at night without it bothering me at all. The auto shut-off is another great feature — I don't have to worry about it once the tank is full. The 7-color ambient light is such a nice bonus! It makes the unit feel more like a piece of decor than just a machine, and I love using the soft light in the evening to relax. If you want a compact, effective, and aesthetically pleasing dehumidifier for your home, this is a fantastic choice. Works great for small to medium spaces and looks good while doing it!" —Elizabeht.S ☁️ Price: $59.98 (originally $79.99; available in black, white, or black and white). 29% off a 3-in-1 bean bag chair, which is as good as this deal ever gets. This chair shapeshifts from floor cushion to lounge chair to nap trap faster than you can say "I deserve this." It's stuffed with memory foam, wrapped in a machine-washable cover, and is perfect for teens, adults, or anyone who takes their lounging seriously. Promising review: "Washed the cover, fluffed it out, then made a nest. I'm never sleeping on a bed or couch again! Absolutely no pain in the spine napping in this. Looks cozy, calming color, firm, definitely durable! Great job!" —Monika Price: $98.99 (originally $139.99). 31% off a 3-in-1 wireless charger for cutting the cable clutter and juicing up your phone, watch, and earbuds all in one go. It's foldable, fast-charging, and nightstand-friendly. Promising review: "I've been using this wireless charging station for a few weeks now, and I couldn't be happier. It charges my iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch all at the same time—no messy cables, no overheating, and no guesswork about placement. Just drop the device on the pad and it starts charging instantly. What really impressed me is how fast and consistent the charging is. My phone goes from 20% to 80% noticeably quicker than with other chargers I've tried, and it never disconnects or stalls. The build quality feels solid, and the design looks great on my nightstand—clean, modern, and minimal." —Akiena K Price: $17.98 (originally $25.99). 53% off a washable area rug — it's lowest price ever. It's soft, lightweight, stain-resistant, and machine washable (yes, really). The neutral pattern adds just enough interest without overpowering your space, and the non-slip backing means it'll actually stay put even if your kids or pets are doing *the most*. Promising review: "I'm so happy with this washable living room rug—it's truly the best of both worlds. It looks beautiful in our space, with a stylish pattern that pulls the whole room together, but the real win is how easy it is to clean. With kids, pets, and daily foot traffic, our rugs take a beating. Being able to just toss this one in the washing machine has been a total game-changer. It comes out looking brand new every time — no fading, no fraying, and no trips to the dry cleaner!" —Maggie Angel Price: $33.21+ (originally $69.99+; available in 16 colors and 11 sizes). 31% off a robot vacuum and mop for anyone who wants spotless floors without lifting a finger. It self-empties, dodges furniture, and tackles pet messes with 10,000 Pa of suction. It scrubs like it's *mad* at your grout. Promising review: "Wow! Three small children, two dogs, and one cat, and this thing really works. Our house has many obstacles to get around, and it hasn't gotten stuck once! Transitions from area rugs to hardwood floors easily. I have it set up to run when we're out of the house, and it picks up so much hair and dust. I was skeptical about buying an off brand, but the reviews and research made me take a chance. I highly recommend it to save you some time and ease of mind." —nick valaris Price: $379.99 (originally $549.99). $120 off a 65-inch Toshiba Fire TV — which is the deepest discount it ever hits — to turn your living room into a streaming sanctuary without wrecking your budget. It has built-in Alexa voice control, 4K ultra HD, and game mod for low-lag battles. It's ready for movie nights, marathon TV sessions, and weekends spent gaming. Promising review: "We're extremely impressed with this TV. The picture quality is stunning, with vibrant colors and sharp detail. Setting up the Fire TV was a breeze, and the Alexa Voice Remote makes navigation so much easier. It's the perfect size for our living room, and we're really enjoying the smart features. Highly recommend this TV for anyone looking for great value and performance for a low price." —Roque Giler Price: $299.99 (originally $419.99). $20 off a folding Adirondack chair that looks like wood, handles the weather like plastic, and even holds your drink. It folds flat for easy storage, supports up to 380 pounds, and has a retractable cup holder. Promising review: "I LOVE these chairs — they are durable yet comfortable. And, I was surprised at how easy they were to put together!! The parts are well labeled and packaged for easy understanding. HIGHLY recommend." —Kim K. Price: $109.99 (originally $129.99).
Hindustan Times
5 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Audi A4 Signature Edition launched at ₹57.11 lakh. Check details
The Audi A4 Signature Edition has gone on sale in India, based on the current Technology trim level, at a price of ₹57.11 lakh, ex-showroom. The Signature Edition comprises a factory-fitted accessories pack and cosmetic design upgrades but keeps the fundamental mechanical and equipment package of the regular A4. The Audi A4 Signature Edition brings a few changes meant to differentiate it from the regular variants. Exterior tweaks include Audi rings decals, LED entry lights projecting the Audi logo, and dynamic wheel hub caps. A spoiler lip has been added for a more aerodynamic profile, while a unique paint finish for the alloy wheels sets it apart from the standard version. (Also read: Audi announces Olympian Neeraj Chopra as new brand ambassador) The cabin gets a natural grey wood oak decorative inlay, which replaces the regular trim, and a custom key cover is included in the additional kit. Audi Genuine Accessories package also consists of stainless steel pedal covers and a fragrance dispenser. The Signature Edition doesn't alter the primary feature list of the Technology variant. It still features the 25.65 cm MMI touchscreen infotainment system, Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus, voice command for navigation, and Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system with 19 speakers. Convenience options like three-zone climate control, electrically adjustable front seats with driver memory, and interior ambient lighting with 30 colour choices are also present in the cabin. In addition, the Park Assist feature with 360-degree camera is included, providing additional support in city parking operations. (Also read: Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line vs Audi Q3: Which SUV should you pick?) The A4 Signature Edition comes with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol (TFSI) engine that makes 204 bhp and 320 Nm of torque. The sedan does the 0-100 km/h run in 7.1 seconds and tops out at 241 km/h. It also gets a 12V mild-hybrid system that offers regenerative braking and improved engine restarting, mainly to help fuel economy and lighten engine load in traffic.
