The living room provides a haven from the turmoil of the world outside and is a place to relax, indulge in a beverage, and decompress. It is also a place people gather and entertain guests. This multipurpose space has been gaining more attention, and so have the many ways it can be enhanced with lighting. What was once an afterthought in the space is moving towards center stage with stunning chandeliers and pendants gaining popularity as the ceiling lighting of choice.

Lighting can make or break the atmosphere in a space, and when done right, transform a space from a practical gathering spot to a stylish and functional space for entertaining. Take inspiration from these living room ceiling lighting ideas, and let creativity run wild when choosing living room ceiling lights. Then sit back and enjoy the results.

Changes in Living Room Lighting

“… Lighting in living rooms has definitely changed over time as styles have evolved.” says Grace @graceslovefordesigns “These days we see more layered lighting (ambient, task & accent lighting) in just about every room especially in living rooms. The lighting today reflects more energy & balance where we want bright, cozy and stylish spaces. … It completes your space just like putting the icing on a cake.”

Sparta 32 Inch 12 Light Chandelier by Hudson Valley Lighting

If the living room has plenty of natural light, consider lighting that doesn’t interfere with the natural daylight streaming in to keep the look uncluttered and airy. Looking just as gorgeous during the day as it does when the lights are turned on, the bold yet simple style of the Sparta 32 Inch 12 Light Chandelier by Hudson Valley Lighting is a stunning burst of energy frozen in time. It brings a fun modern vibe into the space.

Oversized Statement Lighting

Neutral color palettes can be calming and soothing but can run the risk of being one-dimensional and flat. Oversized statement lighting is an unexpected way to take a neutral space from blah to beautiful. Texture and visual interest are key to making the space shine, and a stunning chandelier can work as a focal point and a source of illumination.

Tilda 36 Inch 6 Light Chandelier by Arteriors Home

Even when it isn’t lit, the Tilda 36 Inch 6 Light Chandelier by Arteriors Home makes an impact with its tiers of wooden sticks on pliable curved iron arms. When turned on, the light glows from within and transforms the space with its magic. It’s hard to imagine feeling anything but delighted in this space.

New Take on a Classic Shape

This spikey lighting fixture brings to mind a sea urchin in a fresh take on Sputnik-style chandeliers. The bulbs tucked within the slender black rods wash the living room ceiling and walls with delicate, twig-like shadows, further highlighting texture and play of light in any space.

“Lighting can add so much personality to a space,” according to Allison Campbell @allisoncampbelldesign. “Subtle lighting for accents, bold lighting for a statement. The type of lighting sets the tone …” When looking for lighting for living rooms, the first thing to consider is “What does the piece say to you? How much does it add to the overall feel of the space? Does it add or take away? Also, what does the space say it needs? … determining what the overall feel of the room needs to help it feel complete. A good room design is about the details.”

Kelly Wearstler Strada 38 Inch 20 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co.

In this room, the Kelly Wearstler Strada 38 Inch 20 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co. brings in flair yet allows the room to remain calm and minimalist. It melds raw energy with refined sophistication and spirited spontaneity. This lighting plays well with any type of design style.

Create Symmetry with Matching Fixtures

Large multipurpose rooms often contain distinct spaces created by furniture groupings and area rugs. Hanging matching chandeliers over each area helps reinforce symmetry and balance throughout large rooms without breaking up the flow.

E. F. Chapman Darlana 40 Inch 20 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co.

The high ceilings of this multipurpose space are highlighted by a pair of E. F. Chapman Darlana 40 Inch 20 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co. The wagon-wheel shape with two tiers and aged bronze finish maintains the open feel of the space.

Rays of Light

An eclectic space requires living room lighting to match. When determining how lighting affects the overall design of a room, think about whether or not any other light fixture would create the same look in the space. Eclectic design works when the room feels carefully curated and mindfully designed, like the one below.

Zanadoo 36 Inch Large Pendant by Arteriors Home

A hovering starburst of light trapped in space, the Zanadoo 36 Inch Large Pendant by Arteriors Home features funky spikes, small globe bulbs, and an antique brass finish. The spikes echo details in the artwork, and the brass goes with accessories on the shelves, helping to pull the room together.

Modern Lighting with a Retro Feel

Retro-inspired lighting in minimalist spaces adds fun, eye-catching whimsy that keeps them from taking themselves too seriously. When the light is on, it disperses ambient lighting throughout the room, when off, it looks like a sculpture floating in the space.

ED Ellen DeGeneres Jane 5 Light Chandelier by Generation Lighting

Hung high enough so that it doesn’t compete with the fireplace, the ED Ellen DeGeneres Jane 5 Light Chandelier by Generation Lighting adds shape, texture, and contrast to this room The soft curves and elongated arms add drama and dimension to this living room as it fills the void between the living space and ceiling.