Lighting does more than illuminate…it sets the mood, defines function, and brings out the beauty of a room’s design. At Nandina, we believe great lighting is never one-dimensional. Instead, it’s about layering light—pendants, lamps, sconces, and natural light—in a way that feels intentional and adaptable for kitchens, bedrooms, and living spaces.
To give us an inside look at how designers think through lighting, we sat down with Ashley Diggelmann and BethAnn Connor, our Greenville-based lead designers. They shared their best advice on blending light sources, avoiding common mistakes, and creating a home that feels both functional and inviting.
Why Layering Light Matters
“Always evaluate the purpose of a room, but even more importantly, think about flexibility,” says Ashley. “In our ever-evolving floor plans, having multiple lighting sources lets you adjust the mood and function as life shifts throughout the day.
BethAnn agrees: “In the kitchen, we always recommend a mix—overhead cans for general illumination, under-cabinet lighting for both task and ambiance, and pendants to bring in character and visual interest.”
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
According to Ashley and BethAnn, the most common missteps stem from oversimplification.
- Mistake #1: Relying solely on overhead lighting. “We love to incorporate layers—cans, undercabinet lighting, pendants or chandeliers, plus lamps,” they share. “Nobody wants to watch a movie with the ‘big light’ on.”
- Mistake #2: Choosing the wrong bulbs. “Soft white or 2700K is best for residential homes. Cooler bulbs create a harsh, sterile environment you’d see in an office or hospital.”
- Mistake #3: Skipping dimmers. “They let you shift seamlessly from bright and functional to cozy and intimate.”
BethAnn also points to decorative fixture selection as an easy place to elevate. “We can always tell when something is ‘builder grade.’ It’s often all black metal and the same collection used throughout. We always mix metals and styles so every space has its own look and feel.”
Natural Light + Window Treatments
Natural light is part of the equation too. “It contributes to a healthy circadian environment, but direct sunlight can be distracting,” Ashley notes. “Softening that with window treatments creates a peaceful setting and allows flexibility—blackout drapes with sheers behind, for example, give homeowners options throughout the day.”
BethAnn adds: “I love using sheers or light-filtering roller shades for privacy. And if a client needs total darkness, blackout drapery in front. For mood, though, lamps are always essential!”
Designer Picks
Lighting is also about personality. Both Ashley and BethAnn have favorite fixtures they can’t get enough of:
BethAnn’s pick: Currey & Company Marilee Chandelier
“Lighting is like art. It should be a statement. I love this chandelier because it brings color into lighting—something we rarely see. It’s elegant, traditional, and feminine with a touch of sparkle.”
Ashley’s pick: Arteriors Tassel Lamp
“I always love a statement lamp. It’s about bringing the old together with the new in a way that feels timeless.”
Final Thoughts
Lighting design is both an art and a science. It’s about purpose, mood, and personality all working seamlessly together. Whether you’re renovating, building new, or simply updating a room, layering lighting sources—and mixing in natural light thoughtfully—can completely transform the way your home feels.
👉 Ready to light your home beautifully? Schedule a consultation with our design team to explore custom lighting design ideas for your kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, or living room.”
