While furniture and accessories are the bones of any room, lighting brings a space to life. A well-designed lighting plan energizes a room, creates a welcoming mood, and facilitates activities like reading, playing and creating. Ample lighting is especially important in kids' spaces because children who are engrossed in what they're doing rarely notice when light is insufficient.

Light kids' spaces in layers for flexibility – decorators typically recommend a minimum of five lights per room. This allows you to adjust the room's illumination level from bright to dim to suit the activity at hand, whether your child is working on a floor puzzle, playing dress-up with a friend or doing homework.

Start with ambient lighting that brightens the entire room with a warm, diffused glow. Next add task lighting to illuminate specific areas like your child's desk, bed or armchair. Use accent lights to highlight favorite objects or create visual interest on a bookshelf or dresser top.

Ambient lighting provides the primary illumination in a room and should be evenly diffused to minimize shadows and glare. It can come from several fixtures or a single overhead light, and complements whatever natural light .a room receives. Add dimmer switches for flexibility.

Pendants hang from the ceiling and can have a whimsical, contemporary or simple, classic style. They're a great choice over project areas.

Sconces or wall-mounted uplights cast a diffused glow and can be mounted in multiples around the perimeter of a large room.

Chandeliers have a distinctly elegant appearance and bring a touch of old-fashioned charm to the room. Metal and glass accents can make them a key part of the decorating scheme.

Task lighting provides focused illumination for activities such as reading, coloring or doing homework. Make sure the light you select has adequate wattage, and look for lamps with three-way switches or dimmers for added flexibility.

Table Lamps come in a variety of shapes and styles. Use printed and embellished shades to vary their look and reflect your child's interests and passions.

Floor Lamps are freestanding and may be adjustable in height.

Sconces attach directly to the wall, freeing up space on your child's desk or nightstand. Many have an adjustable design that makes them ideal for bedtime reading.

Desk Lamps cast bright, focused light that's perfect for reading and writing. Look for one with an adjustable head so your child can direct light precisely where it's needed.

Swing-arm Lamps have adjustable arms that allow the light to be swung into position.

Accent lights can be both decorative and functional. Use them to illuminate a collection, or display them as accessories in their own right.

Novelty Lights come in a range of shapes and sizes, and add a fun dimension to displays on a bookcase or dresser. Look for lights that capture an interest such as pets, scouting or ballet.

Nightlights have low-wattage bulbs that give off a comforting glow all night. Place one in your child's bedroom, the hallway and the bath to light the way.