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16 Best Living Room Lighting Ideas

Bright Ideas

Find inspiration for your home with these living room lighting ideas. From standing lamps to chandeliers, find a light that fits your style

What’s the point of having a beautifully designed space if you’re sitting in the dark? Lighting is one of the essential elements of a room and can impact how everything else—from the wall color to the art to the rug—looks. That’s why it’s important to plan your lighting design early and consider all the sources of light you’ll need, whether it's wall lights over the sofa for reading or an eye-catching chandelier that illuminates the whole room. If you’re ready to take your lighting to the next level, discover these genius living room lighting ideas that are sure to make your space brighter and more beautiful.

Focus on the Mix

A successful lighting design combines a number of light sources at different levels of the room. Add layers of light from a number of types of fixtures that can be used together or separately for a flexible space.

Find the Perfect Pair

Double your lighting pleasure with twin pendant lights. Hang matching pendant lights above your dining table to give the space a sense of balance and symmetry.

This Historic Pied-a-Terre Gets a Modern Twist With Joyful Pastels. Photo by Richard Chivers. 

Try Sculptural Sconces

Wall lights or sconces are a great way to add interest to an empty wall or frame the sofa or a work of art. They’re also ideal for small spaces and help free up floor or table space. Try a pair of colorful or sculptural sconces that will draw the eye and illuminate the space, or go for a solo light for a minimalist look.

Add a Centerpiece

Whether you go for a romantic chandelier or a modern pendant, a striking light fixture can complete a living room. Use the piece to brighten the seating area and create a focal point. Install a dimmer switch to be able to switch up the atmosphere and set the mood.

Fashion Insider Marina Larroudé’s Playful New York City Townhouse. Photo by Brooke Holm. 

Add a Pop of Color

If your space is lacking a certain something, add a colorful lamp for an eclectic vibe.

Make It Art

Why have to settle for form or function? Get both by opting for a lamp that looks more like a piece of art than a light source.

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In a Former Italian Restaurant, Sophie Lou Jacobsen Crafted an Eclectic Apartment. Photo by William Geddes.

Don't Overlook Overhead Sources

If your room is large or lacking in natural light, a single ceiling fixture may not be enough. Consider using multiple overhead lights, such as recessed lighting paired with a pendant.

5 Design Ideas to Steal From the Ruby Street in Los Angeles. Photo by  Cándida Wohlgemuth.

Brighten the Mantel

If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace in your living room, don’t leave it in the dark! Highlight the architectural feature by installing sconces or adding a pair of small lamps or candles to your mantel display.

Ethan Cook’s Home Is Just as Vibrant as His Artwork. Photo by Max Burkhalter

Choose a Lamp With Reach

If you don't have a ceiling fixture, consider a floor lamp that curves over the space. The piece will add light from above without the need to call an electrician.

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Illuminate a Corner

A lonely armchair instantly becomes a cozy reading nook when you add a floor lamp. Take advantage of an empty corner and create a calm spot that’s perfect for curling up with a best-seller.

This Treetop Retreat Is a Modern-Design Lover's Dream. Photo by Tim Hirschmann.

Go for an Oversize Look

Make sure you get the most bang for your buck by hanging an oversize pendant light in your space. Never worry about not having enough light again.

Shop and Stay at This 18th-Century Jewel in Copenhagen. Photo by Wichmann + Bendtsen. 

Opt for a Low-Hanging Light

Take advantage of your high ceilings (or even low ones) by dangling a low-hanging pendant light over your dining or kitchen table. This will add an unexpected layer to your space.

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Find a Balance of Old and New

Mix vintage finds with modern accents to bring your space to life. If you have a spare chandelier just hanging around…even better.

An Italianate Home in Nyack, New York, Full of Energy and Art. Photo by Max Burkhalter. 

Cast a Glow

We love a good glow here at Clever. You know what we also love? A colorful glow. Cast a mysterious glow around your space using colored light bulbs behind any mirror in your home.

Inside a Los Angeles Studio Paying Homage to the '80s. Photo by Tim Hirschmann. 

Bring On the LED

Remember that glow we were talking about? Meet its cousin, the LED light. While neon is definitely a popular LED trend, it is most definitely not the only option. Rather than overpowering your space with a harsh color, go for a white light that will add the perfect amount of cool-kid vibes.

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Don't Forget About Your Health

Hi, there! Here to remind you that certain lights can also be healing. Searching for some much needed R&R? Add a Himalayan salt lamp and enjoy all of its (apparent) air-purifying and mood-boosting vibes.

A Young Family Takes Over a Hippie’s Enchanting L.A. Home. Photo by Mikael Kennedy. 

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27 Best Living Room Lighting Ideas & Inspiration 2022

27 Living Room Lighting Ideas You'll Love

You want to show off your tastefully designed living space with ample illumination. But on the other hand, you want to be careful about harsh lighting, as too much brightness can wash out the colors and be generally unpleasant.

With this in mind, the best living room lighting ideas balance bright illumination with a cozy ambient glow. From overhead fixtures and floor lamps to LED installations and tall table lamps, there are tons of ways to breathe light into your space. Let's get started.

1. Oversized Overhanging Floor Lamp

Standing lamps are an excellent choice for shared living areas. They provide significant illumination, don't need to be placed on a shelf or end table, and take advantage of your vertical space. Having said that, if your furniture isn't up against the wall, a large arched floor lamp might be your best bet. Place it near an outlet with the arm pointed into the center of the room.

2. Industrial-Inspired Accent

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If you appreciate an unfinished aesthetic but don't want to go all out, look for industrial-style end table lamps for the living room. Think tarnished metal, visible hardware and exposed bulbs. Consider getting two matching lights to make your space appear more cohesive and intentional.

Get more tips and living room lighting ideas in our guide on How to Create a Modern Industrial Look for Your Home.

3. Mismatched Styles

Just as your furniture doesn't have to be a matching set, your lamps don't have to match or even reflect the same design styles. Looking for eclectic living room lighting ideas? Don't be afraid to choose varying fixtures, like how this home features a minimalist arched floor light and an abstract end-table lamp.

4. Simple Sconces

Sconces are a great way to brighten up a room without taking up any floor or table space. This type of lighting is typically hardwired, so the cord is concealed within the wall. If you often find yourself bothered by exposed wires and power cords, sconces might be right up your alley.

5. Simple Statement

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Living room lighting ideas don't always have to be elaborate. Bold accents make great conversation pieces, but believe it or not, you can make a statement with minimalist lighting too. See how this understated globe pendant light complements the space without distracting from the rest of the decor.

For more pared-down pairings, check out interior designer Melissa Sanabria's D.C. Home Tour Inspired by Minimalism. 

6. Oversized Shade

Large light fixtures work well in living rooms. And unlike furniture, there isn't really such a thing as too big. That’s because oversized silhouettes pass as intentional statement pieces. See how the extra-large shade on this arched floor lamp hovers over the compact living space without feeling overbearing.

7. Retro-Inspired Illumination

Do you love mid-century interior design? Consider getting one or two retro-inspired living room floor lamps like the vintage arched design seen here. Your living room light fixtures can complement a 1960s or 1970s theme, or simply nod at throwback style in an otherwise modern space.

8. Modern Lamps, Soft Accents

Modern interior design can sometimes feel stringent and cold. If you gravitate toward abstract or art-deco light fixtures with stark lines and metal bases, you may want to balance out your living room decor with soft accents. Think textured pillows, whimsy plants, woven baskets and knit blankets.

Learn more about making a contemporary space feel welcoming in our guide on How to Create a Modern and Inviting Entryway to Your Home.

9. Strategically Placed Pendants

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Pendant lights aren't just for dining tables and kitchen islands. They also work well as overhead or accent lighting in living rooms. Consider hanging a row of pendants above your sofa, a pair over the mantle or a single pendant in the corner to create a reading nook.

10. Abstract End Table

Structural lamps are a great optionfor transitional living rooms. Transitional design is a mixture of classic and contemporary decor styles, such as mid-century, art deco, modern, rustic and industrial. If you appreciate abstract fixtures but don't want anything too distracting, opt for a smaller end table lamp.

Learn how to combine two popular design styles in our blog, How to Create a Tasteful Modern Farmhouse Bedroom.

11. Updated Overhead Light

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Overhead lighting tends to either go unnoticed or be an eyesore. If you're not crazy about your existing ceiling light, consider upgrading it to something a bit sleeker. This is a relatively easy and affordable update that'll make a big difference in your living room ambiance.

See what upgrades Parachute founder and CEO Ariel Kaye chose for her #MyParachute Home Makeover.

12. Recessed Lighting

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When it comes to living room ceiling light ideas, recessed lighting is tough to beat. While the upgrade is a substantial project, it's one you'll always be glad to have. It's not only visually pleasing but also low-maintenance, as LED recessed light bulbs often last for upwards of 10 years.

13. Abstract Chandelier

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Like pendant lights, chandeliers aren't just for dining tables. If you're on the hunt for living room chandelier ideas that don't look out of place, your best bet is to skip the crystals and opt for a minimalist design or a structural fixture with abstract features and sharp angles.

14. Tasteful Track Lights

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While homeowners often install track lights in kitchens, these versatile lighting options actually make excellent living room ceiling lights. Installation isn't as complex as recessed lighting, and the wires stay hidden. What's more, track lights come in a range of styles, like modern, industrial, traditional and rustic. Plus they can often be tilted and angled to illuminate different areas.

15. Dimmable Overhead Lighting

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No matter what you choose for your overhead lighting, you're wise to make it dimmable. In most cases, this is a pretty easy and affordable upgrade. If you're working with LED bulbs, you can likely install dimmable light switches without having to change out the fixture. Hello, instant mood lighting.

16. Laid-Back Lantern

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If your space features soft colors or a boho design scheme, a paper pendant lantern is a lovely choice. In addition to living rooms, this laid-back hanging lamp can work well for family room lighting and bedroom illumination.

Want more ideas for your sleeping quarters? Check out these 27 Bedroom Essentials for Creating a Relaxing At-Home Oasis.

17. Modern Mix

With a great room at home, you might be wondering if your living room lights have to match those in your dining room. While you want the space to look cohesive, it's also important to create distinct zones. When browsing pendants, chandeliers, table lamps and floor lights, look for styles with varying features that complement one another and tie together the rest of your furnishings.

18. Natural Lighting

When curating the perfect ambiance for your living room, don't overlook natural lighting. Of course, this depends on the size and direction they're facing, but windows offer substantial illumination during the day — not to mention a brilliant glow just before sunset (aka the golden hour).

If you're all about that natural light, you'll appreciate these Summer Home Decor Ideas.

19. Light-Filtering Curtains

There's a lot to love about large windows that offer ample natural lighting. Even so, light-filtering curtains will allow you to adjust the brightness and block the sun's glare throughout the day. Since you probably don't need blackout window coverings in your living room, look for sheer or semi-sheer panels.

20. Mirrored Natural Light

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One of the best living room lighting ideas you’ll find is to place a large mirror across from a window. Not only will it reflect the natural light outside (thus doubling it), but an oversized mirror can also make your living room look substantially bigger.

Want more tips? See our guide on How to Decorate With Mirrors Across Your Home.

21. LED Wall Accents

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To achieve that sought-after glow and nail your living room luminosity, you should definitely consider accenting your space with LEDs. There are so many routes you can take here, like how this modern home installed chic wall accents over the sofa instead of hanging traditional framed art.

22. LED Strip Lighting

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LED strips are one of those living room lighting ideas that look much more expensive and complicated than they actually are. The budget-friendly light strips are widely available and super easy to install without hiring a professional. You can place them around a tray ceiling, under your media cabinet, within built-in shelving, along your mantle, you name it.

23. Candlelit Glow

If you're partial to the natural flicker of a flame, place candles around your living room. In addition to an ambient glow and a cozy atmosphere, you and your guests will enjoy a pleasant scent.

Want to master the aromatherapy in your humble abode? Read our Home Fragrance Guide: How to Make Your Home Smell Good.

24. Ambient Medley

Whether you opt for candles, LEDs or both, bear in mind that you'll still need at least a couple of additional light sources. The best living room lighting ideas combine overhead fixtures and floor lamps with statement lights and ambient accents. The result? Layered, adjustable mood lighting for any occasion.

For more comfy-cozy design inspiration for every room in your home, take a look at these Fall Home Decor Ideas.

25. Lighted Wall Art

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Think outside the bulb with lighted wall art. Take a look at how this battery-powered shadowbox showcases natural birch branches with a subtle glow. Like candles and LED light strips, illuminated art pieces supplement more robust light sources. 

Looking for more ways to adorn your walls? Check out these 31 Ideas for Decorating a Blank Wall in Your Home.

26. Warm Bulbs, Welcoming Glow

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When you shop for light bulbs, you'll see soft white, warm white, cool white and daylight options. While living room lighting is a personal choice, soft white and warm white are ideal for living rooms, as they emit a warmer, golden glow. Cool white and daylight bulbs, on the other hand, tend to be a little harsher and reminiscent of commercial spaces.

27. Fireplace Insert

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There's nothing quite like the soft crackle and warm glow of a fireplace. If you're not big on building fires, you might consider getting a gas or electric insert (electric fireplaces are usually more affordable).

For additional tips and guidance on designing a cozy space, see our article, Winter Home Decor Ideas: Room-by-Room Inspiration.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Parachute Stylist

These living room lighting ideas should get your creative juices flowing and inspire you to bring your favorite looks to life. When choosing fixtures, remember that it's all about layered lighting and adjustable illumination.

From bold statement pieces, minimalist living room lamps, understated ceiling lights, modern light fixtures and LED accents, you've got virtually endless options. If you're feeling overwhelmed with choices or need support with a specific design issue, an experienced Parachute stylist is here to assist.  

Schedule your complimentary phone or video styling consultation today!

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Lighting in the living room: rules, photos, designer's advice

Competent lighting scenarios are necessary for the interior to be functional and beautiful. We figure out together with the designer how to properly organize the lighting in the living room

Photo: Pexels

Expert advice on lighting living rooms with different features.

  • What should be the lighting in the living room
  • Lighting in the kitchen-living room
  • Lighting in bedroom-living room
  • Living room lighting with stretch ceilings
  • Living room lighting with low ceilings
  • Small living room lighting
  • Style and lighting
  • Expert commentary

Material checked and commented by Tatyana Bobyleva, interior designer

adv.rbc.ru

What should be the lighting in the living room

The living room is a gathering place for the whole family and guests. Unlike a bedroom, where lighting can be calm and spotty, a large room should have enough light sources for any time of day. In the living room you can relax, chat, play sports, receive guests, play board games or spend evenings reading books.

When planning the design of this room, make sure that there are enough outlets. First of all, choose a large chandelier that fits the area of ​​​​the room, and then single-lamp pendant lights on the walls. If the ceiling height allows, you can choose a chandelier on chains or a long stand. In addition to the main light source, additional lamps are useful.

Lighting in the kitchen-living room

In the case when the functionality of two rooms is combined in one room, it makes sense to add light zoning of the space. For this, local lighting is suitable. Instead of large ceiling chandeliers, opt for floor lamps, table lamps, and LED lighting on the walls.

Photo: Pexels

Think over possible scenarios for pastime: for family holidays with a large number of guests, general bright lighting is needed, for a friendly party, the opportunity to leave the light at the table and connect color music. The ideal solution would be automatic light control with the ability to adjust each individual zone.

Photo: Pexels

If you are planning a design for a country house that has a fireplace, you can limit yourself to table lamps or choose wall sconces, placing them on both sides.

Photo: Pexels

Lighting in the bedroom-living room

In the bedroom-living room you need to combine the possibilities of relaxing and active wakefulness. In the sleeping area, background diffused light is needed, but it is often not enough for work or reading. In this case, you can supplement the lighting with wall sconces.

Photo: Pexels

In the area where the TV is located, connect soft subdued lighting - there is no need for bright lamps. Sconces and floor lamps with warm light will not create glare on the screen, which is also true if you work at a computer.

Photo: Pexels

You can mount the LED strip behind the TV panel. Do not forget about bright lamps in the guest area. In addition to the main chandeliers and floor lamps, unblinking garlands are suitable, which create a cozy atmosphere and are relevant at any time of the year, not only on New Year's Eve.

Lighting in the living room with stretch ceilings

Stretch ceilings are exposed to high temperatures, and this feature must be taken into account. Suitable fixtures should be no more than 40-60 watts. Consult with a specialist, consider the type of construction of your ceiling - for example, vinyl can withstand a lower heating load compared to polyester. If you plan to light the living room with halogen lamps, the power of each of them should not exceed 20-35 watts.

Photo: Pexels

In addition, there are separate requirements for the location of the chandelier: the lamps of the central lighting fixture must be at least 15 cm away from the tensile structure. This rule applies to situations where fairly powerful light sources (70 W or more) are used. ). Designers prefer LED lamps; they do not emit much heat and are safe for stretch ceilings.

Living room lighting with low ceilings

Good lighting allows you to visually enlarge the space. So, LED lighting is often used around the perimeter of the ceiling, thanks to which it visually deepens. Light directed upwards also "pulls" the walls, so the lamps can illuminate not only interior items, but also the ceiling.

Photo: Pinterest

Choose appliances with warm light - cool light is more suitable for commercial premises and sales areas. In low rooms, small chandeliers look good, the light of which is directed upwards.

Adhere to the rule: if the ceiling lamp is located in a passageway (not above the table), then it should not be lower than 2.2 m from the floor.

Lighting in a small living room

It is important not to overload a small room with furniture. Therefore, focus on wall sconces, not floor sconces, add spots to illuminate shelves on racks. For variations in case of rearrangement, choose swivel lights with the ability to adjust the brightness level.

Photo: Pexels

In a small living room you need a chandelier mounted as close to the ceiling as possible. Skip the stylish tiered options and models with pendants. An original solution can be a backlit panel with a waterfall, especially if there is a need to zone a room by fencing off part of it.

Style and Lighting

Don't forget that chandeliers, wall lamps and floor lamps must match the overall style of the interior.

Photo: Pexels

Modern dark geometric patterns are not suitable for Provence-style living rooms, and voluminous sconces will stand out from the aesthetics of a Scandinavian room. In the latter, it is better to give preference to minimalist models, including those made from natural materials in neutral shades.

Photo: Pexels

Forged details, floral ornaments and symmetry look good in a classic interior, functional elements in hi-tech, and metal floor lamps, spider chandeliers and long chains are suitable for a loft.

Expert comment

Tatyana Bobyleva, interior designer:

— I agree that we need to start with planning lighting scenarios. The living room is where the family spends most of their time. The range of functions is very large, from cooking and eating, if the living room is combined with a kitchen (dining room), ending with watching a movie or working place.

Recently, the trend in the field of lighting is visually a minimum of fixtures. If recessed spotlights are installed, then they are very small in size, as invisible as possible and located, rather, closer to the walls, to create a softer and more comfortable atmosphere. If, nevertheless, a point light directed at a person is supposed, then there is such an option in the form of a built-in diffuser grille, thanks to which the eyes will be comfortable.

Top 10 Living Room Lighting Tips - INMYROOM

The living room in each house performs several functions. It can receive guests, watch TV, chat, read. This is the main reason why lighting is important in this room. multifunctional. Also important is the correct location of the switches and each outlet.

Main lighting

In most cases, general lighting in the living room is used when the main part The premises is a place for guests. This requires a chandelier, single-lamp hanging lamps and plafonds.

According to the size of the room, it is important to choose ceiling lamp. At the same time, the interior and your taste are taken into account. Main attention when placing must be paid to the geometric center of the ceiling. IN in some cases, the lamp is installed directly above the table for eating.

Chandeliers in the style of classics. They are very diverse due to the advent of technical innovations. TO for example, some of them have mounts for the ceiling to change light direction.

Local

To make it easier to highlight some interior details and perform light zoning, apply local lighting in the living room. There are no more lamps for ceiling. The recreation area should be equipped with local lighting. After all, here most often they read books, communicate in the family circle and spend evenings. For maximum comfort, it is necessary to choose a good local lighting. To in the seating area was nice to sit in, needed a floor lamp, table lamp or sconce.

Soft and subdued light is best aimed at the place where the TV is. If the room has a fireplace, then it is better to use sophisticated table lamps. Also suitable are lamps made of bronze material and having the shape of a candlestick.

Spot

To make a painting, an original figurine and others art objects did not go unnoticed using spot lighting in the living room, which will emphasize their beauty. Also, spotlight can play the role of additional lighting.

One of the varieties of spot lighting the appliance is spot on. Its design can accommodate either one or several lamps. They provide rotation in a given direction, and this allows you to favorably emphasize one of the fragments of the interior.

directional light fixtures. They can perfectly illuminate objects and those places where space is limited.

Intelligent

lead to some inconvenience. After all, they are difficult to manage. This problem solved with smart lighting systems.

This system makes it easier to control everything lighting fixtures at the same time. To do this, use the control panel, which can be wall-mounted or purchased portable.

Such "smart" lighting has the function of reacting to the appearance of a person. At the same time, immediately the light is on. In addition, you can set the required brightness. 4 minutes after being turned on, this appliance will turn off by itself if there is no movement.

Zoning Basics

When developing a project for a living room, allocate certain zones. Basically, you need to pay special attention to the dining a table, chairs, a resting place where a sofa and a TV are placed.

Areas worth paying attention to can be be more, it all depends on your preference. And just in order to highlight or darken, use general, local and decorative lighting.

Engineering

Care must be taken to ensure that place wall lights. To do this, pay attention to the following recommendations:

1. TV. This can ruin the visibility of the screen due to unwanted glare from lamp.

2. Room proportions, ceiling height and the design of the sconce should affect the height of the luminaire. Dimensions should vary from 1.2 to 1.6 m.

3. If you have a classic interior, then luminaires must be placed symmetrically.

For determining the hanging height of the ceiling lamp, you need to know the height of the ceiling. Here are some tips:

1. If the ceiling is low or the lamp located in a passageway, then the height of the lamp should be 2.1 m and higher.

2. If necessary, hang the lamp over the table for food or a table for reading, then it is allowed to lower the lamp a little lower.

For those who plans the lighting of the living room, then special attention must be paid to the degree of illumination, which should be in area 200 lux. You can see the lighting options in the living room, photos of which are presented below.

Design tips

Before starting design and design, to achieve the best effect and result, without errors - use practical recommendations from professionals in this sphere.

No. 1

Decided to choose a light source with an original design? It is important to remember the sense of proportion. Indeed, in this case, it is worth avoiding the use of other spectacular elements - it will not be beautiful.

№2

If the walls in the living room are pastel and the furniture is made in light colors, then the room will be bright even without additional lamps. But here it will not do without the original floor lamp.

№3

Different types of living room lighting will help to ozonize the room. To do this, use decorative lighting and spotlights. It is better to hang an original chandelier in the dining area.

No. 4

If you want to do it in the living room minimalist style, then a round metal lamp will help with this.

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