How to Get Soft Lighting in a Windowless Basement

Accent Lighting

• The type of artificial lighting you choose for your windowless basement greatly affects the type of light and environment you create. Bring in low-voltage accent lighting to create soft lights in smaller, focused areas. Artificial light can also create a welcoming ambiance. Use table lamps, sconces, clip-on lights or hanging lanterns to brighten the basement's dark corners and task areas such as a reading nook or bedside writing table. Combine different types of bulbs in the room to soften the light and create a warm, ambient feel: White halogens mixed with warmer incandescent or energy-saving CFL bulbs work well.

Fill Lighting

• Reduce harsh shadows by using fill light along with accent lighting. A floor lamp with several bulbs or a large hanging paper lamp or chandelier lights a larger space while avoiding an industrial fluorescent effect. Experiment with balancing the fill and accent lighting in the room until you achieve a soft light throughout. Move fixtures around or even switch out shades until you have the desired illumination.

Reflecting Light

• Make the most of your carefully designed basement lighting. Hang one or more large mirrors to make the room appear brighter and larger. Experiment with locations; place a large mirror across from a lit hallway or adjacent room, for instance. Using reflective surfaces creates a similar effect. Glossy decorative accents and furniture are prime candidates.

Color Pallette

• Paint and decorate in a light color palette with bright accents, or with few dark ones. Whites and creams reflect light well and soften it. Break them up with one or two of your favorite bolder colors, like blue and green, to keep the soft look of the room from becoming too industrial or harsh.