Lighting is one of the most important features in interior design. Its not only about setting mood and adding ambiance, but it also has the potential to make a room appear bigger or smaller. Therefore, its something that needs consideration to get the desired effect. Good lighting involves a mix of layers to generate adequate light for the purpose of the room and the activities taking place within it. Natural lighting should be used liberally during the day, especially for those activities that require less intense light. Artificial lighting should be used to supplement natural lighting, filling any gaps and adding more light to darker areas if necessary. There are different types of lighting available such as task, ambiance, accent and decorative lights. Task lighting is focused light used for specific purposes such as reading, cooking or doing homework. Ambiance lighting helps set the mood, setting a warm and inviting tone. Accent lighting highlights certain items or areas in a room, drawing attention to specific features. Decorative lighting generally serves as a focal point in a room, often in the form of a chandelier or grand lamp. When designing a lighting plan for a room it is important to consider the purpose of the space, the natural lighting available, the characteristics and color of the furnishings and the desired ambiance. The lighting fixtures should complement the overall design of the room. Its also important to consider energy-efficiency and long-term costs to ensure the lighting used is both aesthetically pleasing and cost-effective. In conclusion, lighting can have a dramatic effect on a rooms design. It requires careful consideration to ensure the desired effect is achieved. To achieve good lighting, a combination of both natural and artificial light will need to be used, with each layer playing an important part. Finally, its important to take cost into consideration when selecting lighting fixtures. By following these steps, it should be possible to create the perfect lighting plan for any room.