When most of us think of traditional lighting we think of Tiffany lamps, crystal chandeliers, and wall sconces with fancy lampshades. In recent years, interior decorators have discovered ways to manipulate light using more versatile lighting devices like track lights, three-way lamps, and dimmer switches. These days, many homeowners use a combination of traditional and modern lighting devices to create a unique look for their homes.

One of the best ways to determine the type of lighting for each room in your home is to define the room's purpose. If you're planning on entertaining guests in a formal dining room, it's a fabulous idea to go with a traditional lighting device like a crystal chandelier. On the other hand, if you're designing the lighting for a family room, you probably want to go with a combination of task lights like floor lamps, recessed lighting fixtures, and even novelty lamps.

Keep It Consistent
When it comes to designing the interior of your home, the sky is the limit. Even if you want to use a number of different lighting techniques in a single room, you still need to make sure you keep the look simple and consistent. For example, if you place a Tiffany lamp in your home office, you probably don't want to use halogen floor lamps or novelty lamps in that same room. If you want to set a tone of chaos in your office, then by all means place as many different types of light in there as you want. Otherwise, it's a good idea to stick with devices that match your Tiffany lamp such as traditional desk lamps or wall sconces.

If you want to create a more consistent look throughout your home, then you need to commit to a single lighting style. Some people prefer modern lighting while others prefer to stick with traditional lighting techniques. Choosing a style for your home helps to narrow down your lighting options.