The Overlooked Hero of Every Remodel

When you think about remodeling, your mind probably jumps to cabinets, countertops, or flooring. But one of the most powerful design elements isn’t underfoot or at eye level—it’s above your head.

Lighting is more than functional. It sets the mood, highlights your favorite features, and changes how you experience every corner of your home. The right fixtures let your style shine through while making the space feel comfortable and livable.

Think of lighting as the jewelry of your remodel—it’s the detail that pulls everything together.

💡 The Language of Light: Styles That Tell a Story

Each type of lighting brings a different “personality” into a room:

Recessed Lighting → Sleek, minimal, and perfect for bright, even coverage. A great choice for lower ceilings or spaces where you don’t want fixtures hanging down.
Pendants → Stylish and practical. Perfect over kitchen islands, bathroom vanities, or bars when you want both targeted light and a little drama.
Statement Chandeliers → The instant focal point. Dining rooms, entryways, and living rooms feel complete with one bold chandelier.
Ceiling Fans with Lights → Double duty. They keep a room airy while blending in useful overhead light.
Undercabinet Lighting → The unsung hero of every kitchen remodel. It eliminates shadows on counters, highlights backsplash design, and creates a soft evening glow.
Lamps & Accent Lighting → The cozy layer. Floor and table lamps bring warmth and flexibility, letting you set the mood with a switch.

🍳 The Kitchen Glow-Up: Rules of Thumb for Lighting Layouts

Your kitchen deserves more than one type of light. It’s where you prep, cook, gather, and linger—and each of those moments needs a different vibe.

Recessed Lighting → Place fixtures evenly, about 4–6 feet apart. Keep them 12–18 inches away from cabinets to avoid casting shadows.
Undercabinet Lighting → Non-negotiable. It keeps counters bright while showing off your backsplash. Bonus: it makes a gorgeous nightlight.
Pendants Over the Island → Typically spaced 24–30 inches apart. Choose a style that fits your personality, whether sleek glass, rustic metal, or natural textures.
Layering → A well-designed kitchen has three layers of light: general (recessed), task (undercabinet), and accent (pendants). Add dimmers so you can move from bright meal prep to cozy dinners with ease.

👉 Rule of thumb: every corner of your kitchen should be lit—no dark zones.

🛁 Bathroom Brilliance: No Bad Angles Allowed

Bathrooms need lighting that’s flattering and functional.

Vanity Lights Above the Mirror → The classic choice. Even, practical, and timeless.
Pendants Beside the Mirror → A high-end twist. They create vertical lines that feel custom and luxurious.
Recessed Lights → Excellent for showers and general bathroom lighting.
Accent Fixtures → Backlit mirrors or sconces for a spa-like feel.

Tip: Layer lighting so mornings feel bright and energizing while evenings feel soft and calming.

🛋️ Living & Dining: Spaces That Set the Mood

Lighting in these spaces is all about atmosphere.

Living Room Layers → Recessed lighting for general use, plus lamps for cozy nights. Add sconces or picture lights to highlight art or architectural details.
Dining Room Drama → The chandelier is the star. It anchors the room, sets the style, and instantly elevates the space. Pair with a dimmer for flexibility—from family meals to intimate gatherings.

🔮 Lighting Trends for 2026

What’s new in lighting design this year?

Mixed Materials → Brass + matte black, or metal + wood combos.
Oversized Fixtures → Large pendants and chandeliers that act like art pieces.
Warm LED Tech → Energy efficiency without the harsh glow.
Minimalist Lines → Sleek recessed strips and undercabinet lights that let the design shine.
Smart Systems → Adjust brightness or color temperature from your phone.

🌟 Why We Obsess Over Lighting at Studio MWR

Lighting isn’t an afterthought—it’s woven into your design from day one. As a design-build firm, we look at your remodel as a whole: where the light falls, how the fixtures reflect your style, and how the space will feel once the switch flips on.

Because when the lights come on, your home should feel like you.

✨ Ready to See Your Home in a New Light?

From recessed lights to bold chandeliers, lighting shapes how you live in your home. Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, a bathroom refresh, or a full first-floor transformation, we’ll help you balance style and function perfectly.

👉 Schedule your consultation with Studio MWR today—and let’s bring your vision to life, one light at a time.

✨ Let’s Talk About Lighting: Style, Function & the Glow That Makes a Home