All over TikTok, people are adding small lamps in places they need a little extra light like the kitchen counter, bathroom vanity, and bedrooms. Overhead lighting is out and small lamps are back.
“We never, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever turn on the big light.”
It’s a popular audio on TikTok, and a rule for life. The big light is, of course, the blinding, singular source of overhead light in any given room. Some are attached to a fan, others aren’t. They’re bright, far-reaching, and usually overkill.
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Many designers will say that harsh overhead lighting is a common faux pas. It creates unnecessary shadows and can feel sterile and aggressive.
This TikTok audio is usually accompanied by stunning shots of romantically-lit homes, low-light lamps, decorative lights, and dreamy interiors. The trend points to an important lesson in interior design: lighting matters.
All over TikTok, people are adding small lamps in places they need a little extra light like the kitchen counter, bathroom vanity, and bedrooms. So is overhead lighting out and small lamps back?
First, let’s discuss the different types of lighting each room needs and why they’re important.
Image via Francesca Tosolini/Unsplash
There are three main types of lighting that each room needs: ambient, accent, and task.
Ambient is usually overhead, like that annoying one on your fan, but could also be recessed lighting, chandeliers, or sconces. While these kinds of lights are needed for general purpose, the trick is to make them dimmable. Having control over just how bright your ambience lights are, and having the ability to adjust based on the time of day makes all the difference.
Accent lighting is also important for creating cozy spaces within a room, for example, defining the living room from the dining room. Think little, table lamps, and picture, track, and up lights. They are used to highlight a specific piece of art or accompany a sitting area.
Lastly, task lighting is just what it sounds like: lights you use when doing something specific. For example, the lights above your bathroom sink, pendants over the kitchen island, or a standing lamp next to your favorite reading chair. These are usually necessary aside from your design skills.
The key is to have a mixture of these three light sources. They each have their own role and add to the ambiance of a space. Most homes inherently have ambient lighting. When you move in, they’re there. And most people add task lighting for essential light where you need it. But accent lighting is often overlooked.
Which brings us back to the trendy “little lamp.” Those small, vintage-style lamps on kitchen counters, bedside tables, or playrooms are the accent lighting addition all of our homes have been craving. It rounds out the room and completes the dynamic design. No wonder we love them.
And perhaps after three years of living in our homes non-stop, we’ve learned the power of romanticizing one’s life. Turning in for the night and “closing the kitchen” by the light of a small lamp is infinitely more appealing than the horror of full light on the situation. The low lighting calls for more intimacy and a slower pace.
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Creating rituals in your home is what will make you feel centered and connected to it. The simple act of going around to turn lights on or off can signal something more than just the need for light: the starting or ending of a work day, a beloved nighttime tradition, or the peace of knowing sleep is coming soon. Like making yourself a special drink to unwind or playing your favorite comfort TV show, keeping just the little lamps on can be a similar treat after a long day.
Plus, these lamps are so affordable. The small size and basic structure makes them unremarkable and easy to find. I’ve thrifted a few for under $15 and found some favorites on Amazon for under $50. If you’re looking for a classic pleated lampshade, this one is a gem.
Look around your home and ask yourself, what type of lighting do I have in here? Odds are, you’re missing one.
What's your favorite type of lighting? Let us know in the comments and check out our email newsletter for more home hacks.
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Who doesn’t love finding a great deal – especially when everything is under $15? Amazon is serving up the best bargains of the week, from beauty essentials to home goods and fashion finds. All shoppable at unbeatable prices, these 12 Amazon finds won’t break the bank if you’re searching for something stylish, practical, or just downright fun.
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This $14 liquid exfoliant is beloved for its ability to deliver smoother, more even skin with consistent use. It's more gentle (and more effective!) than physically exfoliating your skin, which can oftentimes do more harm than good.
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SPF is the star of your skincare routine, and this $11 (was $25) makes applying it every day super easy with a sheer, evening tint and silky-smooth feel.
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Cozying up just became so much better with this $13 (was $20) pick. The ribbed texture definitely gives it a luxe vibe, but for less. Love!
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Meal preppers, unite! These 10-ounce containers are perfect for overnight oats, yogurt bowls, or just sectioning out snacks to eat on throughout the workday. Snag the sleek yet durable duo for just $15!
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This convenient wax stick keeps your flyways at bay for the most seamless slicked-back buns or ponytails. Shoppers love this $5 (was $7) pick because its sleeking effects last all day long!
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Step up your bedside table decor with this gorgeous $15 (was $17) alarm clock – it fits right in with any home decor style!
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These high-waisted $15 (was $23) biker shorts can stretch across tons of different occasions, from workouts to grocery store runs or just lazing around at home! You'll fall in love with them because they feature some convenient side pockets that can easily fit your phone or other small essentials you want to keep close.
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This skin- and hair-friendly satin pillowcase is going for just $8 (was $13) to protect you from breakouts and broken locks. Shoppers adore how smooth it is to the touch, adding a very bougie feel to your bedtime routine for not much money.
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Spring's out, so that means the sun's out! You might as well protect your peepers in style with these $13 (was $20) sunnies that come in endless different colorways to match each and every outfit. We love this green pair for a playful pop of color!
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This $4 – yes, $4! – lip balm keeps your lips lookin' and feelin' super moisturized when they need it most. It also provides a sheer tint of color, so you could easily rock a layer of it with or without makeup. Such an affordable makeup bag upgrade!
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Our favorite skincare hack is slapping a pimple patch on any pesky breakout that emerges. These patches at least make the experience super cute, plus you can get 36 of 'em for just $5!
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Nothing’s better than kicking back after a long day to admire the stylish, cozy space you’ve curated to call home. All the work you put into getting the feng shuijust right can ultimately feel pointless if it doesn’t spark joy, though. That's where decorating comes in – it gives you the chance to personalize and energize your space so that coming home feels fun and familiar instead of drab and dreary.
The most-frequented space in my home tends to be on the couch, queuing my favorite hyper-fixation TV show for the evening. This increased screen time comes hand-in-hand with utilizing your coffee table to its fullest potential, which can sometimes mean things can get a little... messy. But don’t worry — there are countless decor items you can play with to organize your coffee table and make it look nothing short of picturesque. Peep these delightful coffee table trays and decor that are sure to spark joy below!
Embellish your coffee table with a bold, eye-catching book cover. This edition meets you at the Amalfi coast, showcasing the region's geographical marvels and finest restaurants, so you can start planning your next vacation right from the couch. Assouline produces dozens of books that display even more international destinations for you to pick from.
Further fuel your wanderlust with this coffee table book focused on America's National Parks. The pages take you along a tour of the country's best regions to explore. You and your guests alike will certainly learn something new about the great outdoors as you flip through.
This coffe table book is appealing and practical. The colorful, blocky illustrations pull you into the wonderful world of at-home bartending. Let your guests pick their drink from list book of 60+ cocktails, and you won't have to worry about finding a helpful guide to start shaking and muddling.
Obsessed with the Architectural Digest Open Door videos? Us too! This book embodies the beloved series, this time on paper. Each page gives a peek into the homes of well-known figures, from the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright to Barack and Michelle Obama. Top your coffee table with this collection of easy-to-access home decor inspo.
Music never fails to evoke fond memories of the past. This coffee table book is your complete companion for nights full of reminiscing with friends. Flip through the albums, and prepare to get sappy about your favorite songs.
This 2-in-1 candle and incense holder is the ideal coffee table decoration because the organic tray shape keeps things visually interesting, while the holder itself serves a useful double purpose. Smoke off your favorite incense scents while illuminating your space with a cute taper candle.
Style a coffee table centerpiece worth treasuring. This hand-blown mushroom vessel houses a moss-scented candle that you can light to unwind in the evenings. Although, this pick is so charming, it might be hard to bring a match to it.
Set this funky candle beside an aesthetically pleasing match box so you can illuminate your room in a flash. The winding wax design is decorative enough to look stunning, even when the wick isn't lit.
Decorating your coffee table with colorful glass candles is an easy way to elevate the tablescape. The glass is attractive because of its hand-blown construction, and the bubble-like shape makes things chic. If you're craving a little something extra for your cozy dwelling, set out a few smaller candles like this one.
Can't resist a fresh scent? This soy candle duo fills your living room with a Sea of Sage and swells of Golden Vanilla. The neutral, minimal design makes styling your coffee table with these candles truly effortless. Plus, your purchase benefits charitable organizations that advocate for women's rights.
Spark up a savory scent and easily put it on display in an incense holder. Don a section of your coffee table with this minimalist design and a bunch of incense sticks for an access to a relaxing post-work ritual.
The wide base on this candle serves as a coffee table centerpiece of sorts. Bask in the warm glow of this bamboo-scented candle during a low-key night in. Once the wax is used up, you can upcycle the glass container for a special catchall tray!
This vibrant storage tray can hold your candles, coasters, and more when they're not being used. The acrylic material makes this pick an absolutely breeze to clean. Snag this pick if your coffee table space needs a dose of color!
This catchall tray goes beyond storing your coffee table accessories. It can be your new central spot for accumulating mail and miscellaneous paperwork. You can also use it as a serving tray for some delicious finger foods! Peek at the enticing colors and sizes this design comes in to accomodate your desired space!
If your coffee table is a high-traffic area for other activities, this functional design is a must-have. The handles on each side make it easy to lift out of the way, if needed. The tray is crafted out of metal, so it's easy to keep clean and can withstand the normal wear and tear.
This adaptable design makes our inner child happy. The simple, primary color palette and funky metal trims feel extremely playful, yet the trays are useful in storing miscellaneous house items. Divide the set up to organize every room in the house, or keep them united for a stackable look.
This neutral colorway pairs well with any coffee table decor or interior style. The tray keeps things simple, and the side handles definitely streamline the decorating process.
This dish is your BFF for catching the jewelry you shed after the work day. The design comes in five different colors to suit your space's vibe! Pop it on your coffee table next to a luxurious candle to keep things organized and polished.
Give these guys a spin on your coffee table! These vinyl coasters are ideal for an eclectic addition, and appeal to music lovers all around. They lay the perfect foundation for your ice-cold drinks and cans!
Ponder the stars amid this stitched set of zodiac coasters! They'll make a home on your coffee table in no time. Your besties can reserve their star sign each time they visit to keep their drink cozy, and your table ring-free.
These coasters greet your coffee table guests with a lively color palette. Each design differs from the other, so you can easily distinguish between drinks. The silicone material makes these coasters simple to clean, and provides a unique tactile experience, if you just need to fidget with something. Give your glass nothing but the best!
These felt coasters catch all the condensation, without staining or feeling wet. They also supply a healthy pop of color to refresh your coffee table. The collection of pinks and purples are to die for, but you can also snag these in blue hues.
These handmade resin coasters burst out in 9 different color pairings to accompany every evening sip. Their funky shape plays well with any space, as long as you like accents that deliver a quirky aesthetic.
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If you've been searching for a fun way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with your little ones, look no further. Reading a children's book together is a great way to dive into the magic of Irish folklore, shamrocks, and leprechauns.
Here are some of the best St. Patrick's Day books to spark your kiddo's imagination and teach them about the spirit of the holiday.
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This book by Mallory Loehr and illustrated by Brian Biggs is a charming read for your youngest St. Patrick's Day celebrants. Recommended for ages 2 through 5, it introduces children to the playful world of leprechauns through simple, engaging text and vibrant illustrations.
The story highlights the fun-loving nature of these mythical creatures, who are known for their pranks, hidden pots of gold, and being talented shoemakers. It has an easy-to-follow storyline that's perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.
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If you have a little one who loves four-legged friends, you can't go wrong with Lucky Tucker by Leslie McGuirk. This sweet story follows Tucker the terrier, who is having a rough time on St. Patrick's Day.
Well, that's until he stumbles upon a patch of four-leaf clovers. Little does he know this magical spot is home to a leprechaun who turns Tucker's luck around in the most wonderful way.
This heartwarming tale, fit for kids between the ages of 2 and 5, is perfect for young readers who enjoy fun animal stories and a touch of magic.
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Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato by Tomie DePaola blends humor and life lessons in a way that captivates young readers. This classic children's book, recommended for ages 4 to 8, follows Jamie O'Rourke, who's known as the laziest man in all of Ireland, with a farm in disarray.
But when Jamie encounters a leprechaun and begins to grow a potato so large it seems almost magical, his luck takes a turn for the better. Yet, as the spud grows bigger, he starts to wonder if the giant gift is more trouble than it is worth.
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This lively collection of poems, written by D.J. Steinberg and illustrated by Emanuel Wiemans, perfectly captures the spirit of St. Patrick's Day.
As a follow-up to Kindergarten, Here I Come!, this book uses fun, rhythmic verses to take kids ages 4 to 6 through all the exciting parts of the holiday, like wearing green, playing the bagpipes, and hunting for leprechauns. It has catchy lyrics and vibrant illustrations.
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Written by Marilyn Sadler and illustrated by Stephanie Laberis, It's Not Easy Being a Leprechaun is a story about learning to embrace who you are. It's a delightful read for children 3 to 7 years old.
Connor O'Connor, a little leprechaun, isn't thrilled with his role in life and decides to use some magic to try out different jobs, such as being a carpenter, a fairy, and even a king. His adventures lead him to learn an important lesson about self-acceptance and appreciating his own unique qualities.
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The Leprechaun Under the Bed, written by Teresa Bateman and illustrated by Paul Meisel, is a tale of unexpected friendship.
Brian O'Shea is a solitary leprechaun who enjoys a peaceful life. That's until a human named Sean McDonald builds a house right on top of Brian's underground abode. Despite their differences, a friendship begins to grow.
This humorous and whimsical book, intended for kiddos aged 4 to 8, serves as a reminder that even the most unlikely friendships can blossom.
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Penned by Natasha Wing and illustrated by Amy Wummer, The Night Before St. Patrick's Day is a fun twist on the classic holiday story.
On the eve of March 17, Tim and Maureen set out to catch a leprechaun by putting up clever traps. Then, they wake up to the sight of green eggs and the sound of bagpipes and realize they actually caught one.
The only problem? They're not exactly sure what to do next. This story is full of surprises and will help get your kids between the ages of 4 and 8 into the St. Patrick's Day spirit.
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Last but not least, Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland by Tomie dePaola is a beautifully illustrated book that introduces little ones to the life and legacy of Saint Patrick.
DePaola shares the story of Patrick's noble birth in Britain, his captivity in Ireland, and his eventual return to spread Christianity, founding the first Christian church in Ireland. It even touches on the famous legend of Patrick banishing snakes from Ireland!
This read is a stellar way to help children between the ages of 5 and 8 understand the importance of the holiday and the man behind it.
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