Experimenting with lighting can determine a room's ambiance. From decorative chandeliers to subdued sconces, light fixtures each have a personality of their own, and looking ahead to 2026, we feel more inclined than ever to try out eccentric pieces.
We're looking to Jennifer Lopez for inspiration on that front. JLo recently shared a snap of her living room on her Instagram page, and we were struck by the layering of different fixtures in her space; namely, a metallic wall sconce and a sculptural chandelier. Designers say it's a great source of inspiration for living room lighting ideas.
'Lighting has such a huge impact on how a space feels, and it’s one of the easiest ways to change the mood or elevate a room,' Kelly Collins, head of creative at Swyft, explains.
'JLo’s statement chandelier moment is a great reminder that lighting doesn’t just illuminate; it defines atmosphere and adds personality. Ultimately, great lighting is all about balance; a little bit of drama, a little bit of softness. Even if you’re not quite ready for a JLo-level chandelier, introducing a few statement pieces or swapping to warmer bulbs can completely change the way your living room feels.'
Shop the inventive living room lighting edit
Seven buttery blue cotton canvas petals convene gracefully around a single bulb. Made in the South of France by Georges – a lighting brand known for its imaginative flair and devotion to craft – it brings an expressive, almost sculptural spirit to the living room.
Prepare to see leather lighting a whole lot more in 2026. Maybe it’s the uptick in equestrian-core, or maybe it’s just heritage taste circling back. Either way, stitched leather details and breezy linen shades are proving they're here to stay. This sconce, in particular, is the kind of tailored touch that begs to flank your favorite artwork.
You’ve likely seen the bespoke light installations this Goop-designed chandelier is referencing, complete with avant-garde swoops, unexpected milk glass forms, and draped chains that hang from hook to hook. If we didn’t know better, we’d assume you picked it up from a gallery.
Kelly tells us that mixing and matching different forms of lighting, like JLo has done, is a fantastic way to maintain visual interest as well as keep all areas of a space illuminated.
'Layered lighting is key,' she explains. 'Combine ambient (overhead), task (reading lamps), and accent (wall or table lights) to make your space adaptable and inviting at any time of day.'
Additionally, incorporating shiny fixtures adds a textural element that carries with it an element of opulence.
'Metallics, like JLo’s chandelier, instantly bring warmth and luxury,' Kelly says. 'Try brushed brass or soft gold accents if you want something that feels glamorous but still liveable.'
Above all, Kelly encourages play and experimentation with lighting.
'Even if your style is minimalist, lighting is the perfect place to have a little fun. Think sculptural shapes, smoked glass, or mixed metals. Small tweaks, big impact.' Will you be following JLo's example?
