Lighting is one of the best ways to create a distinctive look for your home, whether you want it to be casual, chic or something entirely unique. Show that you don't take your home lighting accessories such as lamps and other fixtures for granted with these inspiring techniques and tips. There are three types of lighting homeowners should be aware of:

• Ambient lighting covers the largest amount of space and includes fixtures such as lamps and chandeliers that can create a softer, warmer tone within the room or entire home.
• Task lighting includes brighter lighting that focuses on a particular area where a task occurs, such as over a desk or reading nook. Pendant or valance lights are often used in these circumstances, as well as portable fixtures that give your space a bright, task-oriented light.
• Accent lighting such as sconces and track lights can help break down a bigger room by drawing the eye to focal points or various points of interest, like artwork or wall hangings.

Choosing the right kind of lighting also means knowing how to incorporate it into the decor for each room. Try picking up on cues such as color, patterns and accent decor. A mixture of lamps and installed light fixtures can provide more controlled lighting — for example, sconces in the formal dining room can be paired with a vintage floor lamp, or a gorgeous chandelier in the great room combined with accented desk lamps. Home lighting is just as crucial a design element as other decor, so make sure that you pay careful attention in how you illuminate your home. For professional design help, turn to Stephanie Kratz Interiors.