Whether you’re planning a new build or renovation, lighting makes a room. “Lighting can change the feel and function of a space from bright and spacious to moody and dim,” says Vicky Serany, founder and principal, Southern Studio Interior Design. “Most clients don’t realize how lighting a space is one of the most important elements of the design process.”

Upgrading your lighting can energize an entire room, too, even if you’re not doing a full-scale renovation. “Changing out an old fixture is an easy way to transform a space,” says Paula Daher, principal, Daher Interior Design. “It’s one of the quickest ways to update, no matter what your budget.”

If it’s been a while since you’ve done a room refresh (goodbye, ’90s shiny brass chandelier!), it may be time to swap out old fixtures for unique new lights with energy-efficient LEDs. Or maybe it’s time to improve functionality because you’ve noticed you need more light to read or prepare dinner lately (No, you’re not imagining things: Our eyes do need more light to see as we get older!).

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