How to Light Your Breakfast Nook

View the breakfast nook at various times during the day and night to determine the lighting needs. Note where you feel light is lacking as you use the space to determine exactly what lighting changes you need to make.

Allow the natural light to filter into the nook easily by changing the window coverings. Choose a Roman shade or similar covering that you are able to pull up fully so the entire window is exposed. Skip heavy drapes or curtains that will partially cover the window even when open.

Add a window into the nook area if it doesn't currently have one. Hire a professional contractor to handle the installation if you don't have experience framing and installing windows. If you already have a window but it doesn't let in much light, consider expanding it or having additional windows installed in the area.

Hang a decorative mirror in the nook area to reflect the natural light in the space. This makes the nook feel larger and helps intensify the natural light.

Paint the breakfast nook a bright color that makes it feel light and airy. The brightness of the area helps emphasize the natural light that streams in from the windows. Dark wall colors make the nook feel darker and closed in.

Install a light fixture over the table in the breakfast nook. Choose a pendant light, chandelier or track lighting depending on the decorating style in the nook. Hire an electrician to add the fixture if you don't have electrical experience.

Install sconces on the walls of the breakfast nook for additional lighting closer to the table surface. Like the overhead lights, you should leave the installation to a professional electrician if you don't have experience.