Up lighting provides a soft, indirect source of light that creates general illumination for a room. Four types of fixtures can be used to give a room this light: the torchiere, spotlight, sconce and ceiling fan up light. Each shines light up onto the ceiling, thereby avoiding annoying glare in the eyes. Depending on the purpose for the space, one or more of these fixtures may be appropriate.

Up Lighting Applications

A fixture that provides uplighting can be used in almost any room. Sconces placed on either side of a mirror can be turned up to shine on the ceiling while lighting that work area. Sconces are also good ways to highlight artwork and provide bedside lighting. The torchiere is a stylish floor lamp that directs light upward for ambient light that also acts as accent lighting. These lamps can bring attention to an area of the room as well as provide general light.

The spotlight is a low profile light used for both interior and exterior applications. It can highlight architectural features and artwork and be adjusted to point upward at any angle that is comfortable for the eye. Ceiling fan lights provide up lighting with a fixture that is installed above the fan housing, so that the light is above the fan blades. The effect is one of ambient lighting that washes the ceiling and walls in soft, indirect light.

The advantage of up lighting is in its soft, atmospheric effect. It can be used in conjunction with other types of ambient lighting to bring visual interest to the space with the use of light. When uplighting is used, the room gains not only more useful light but also more character and charm.