There’s one thing I believe can completely change the feel of a home, and it isn’t expensive furniture or fancy décor. It’s lighting.
Over the years, I’ve restored old homes, decorated short-term rentals, and created spaces for people to gather and make memories. One lesson keeps proving itself over and over again. A room with the right lighting just feels different. It feels warm. It feels peaceful. It feels like you want to stay awhile.
If you’ve ever walked through one of my homes, whether it’s the Fuller White House, one of our Villas at Spanish Court, or Phillip’s Cottage, you’ve probably noticed that I rarely rely solely on bright overhead lights. Instead, I love layering different light sources to create a soft, welcoming glow.

At the Fuller White House, I wanted every room to feel like you were stepping back in time while still being comfortable enough for modern living. These vintage-inspired chandeliers help highlight the home’s original character without making it feel dark. In the evenings, the house almost seems to come alive.


The same idea carries over to our Villas at Spanish Court. Our guests often tell us how relaxing the spaces feel, and I think lighting has a lot to do with that. Bedside lamps make it easy to curl up with a good book. Floor lamps add warmth to living areas. Even the outdoor patio lights add another layer of coziness, making the villas feel complete.


Phillip’s Cottage has a special place in my heart. We designed this home to be a place of hope and healing for women rebuilding their lives. I wanted it to feel safe, peaceful, and comforting from the moment someone walked through the front door. Soft lighting plays a big part in creating that feeling. It reminds us that home should be a place where you can finally exhale.
Even in my own cottage, I love layering different lighting pieces, like with this Wagon Wheel Chandelier and table lamps on my side tables. They add another layer of warmth to my home. It’s little touches make such a big difference, especially after the sun goes down.
One tip I always share is to think in layers. Instead of depending on one bright ceiling light, try adding a floor lamp, a table lamp, or a wall sconce. The room will instantly feel more inviting. It also gives you flexibility because you can turn on only the lights you need.
I’ve rounded up many of my favorite lighting finds in this Idea List. These are the kinds of lights I use in my own home and throughout our projects because they help create spaces that feel collected, cozy, and welcoming.
If you’re looking for one simple way to make your home feel more expensive, more comfortable, and more inviting, start with the lighting. Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest difference. Turn on a lamp, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and enjoy the cozy glow. Your home and everyone who walks through the door will thank you.
**This post does contain affiliate links. I do earn small commission I utilize to help with the upkeep of this blog. It doesn’t cost you extra to utilize my links.