• Indoor lighting can have a strong impact on the design and function of a roomAntique Lighting image by Lucid_Exposure from Fotolia.com
  
  Indoor lighting is an important feature in any home, as it can help to brighten up a space and add to the design. Homeowners and designers have several choices for indoor lighting, including natural light, floor lamps and track lighting. Each option has unique characteristics and can add atmosphere to a room.
  
  

Natural Light

• Natural light is a popular indoor lighting option that has minimal cost and can be accomplished with the construction of windows. Rooms with large window space will naturally produce light throughout. Some homeowners choose to have an entire wall of windows to bring in extra light. Homeowners and designers can also enhance the brightness of the room by painting the room a bright color such as white or yellow. Brightly colored furniture and accessories can also help to enhance the look of the natural, streaming light. By creating a room with numerous windows, homeowners cut back on the amount of electricity that they will use. While sunlight can be an interesting light option in homes, it is only available during the day, leaving the homeowner to create other options for the night.
  
  

Floor Lamps

• Common in many homes, floor lamps provide both style and function. Floor lamps are often used in living and recreational rooms. They come in a wide variety of colors and sizes and are available at most design stores. When choosing a floor lamp, homeowners and designers will often try to match the style of the room. For instance, if the room has a contemporary style, designers will choose a simple, clean floor lamp. If the room is a traditional style, a floor lamp with a glass or lace-covered shade may fit.
  
  

Track Lighting

• Track lighting, or small lights that sit on a track on a ceiling, is a popular option in contemporary homes. Track lighting is a simple and clean option for those who do not want to use table or floor lamps. It is also often an inexpensive option. Since the glow is coming from the ceiling, track lighting often seems softer than traditional light sources. Due to the softness, it can provide a romantic setting for a space. While track lighting is most often seen in living rooms and dining rooms, it can also be used in bedrooms and kitchens.