If You Hate Harsh Overhead Lighting, You’ll Want to Try This Viral Lighting Hack

Updated: Jul. 10, 2023

You'll love the ambient light this trick creates in your living space.

If you’re not a fan of harsh overhead lighting (and who is?), you’ll be thrilled to learn that one, it’s possible to light a living space without it, and two, there are multiple fixes you can try. To successfully create a home that simultaneously feels intimate and bright, you can make use of some innovative no-overhead lighting solutions.

Here’s some great news: There are plenty of lighting solutions that can illuminate your home without any harshness. Today, we’re going to share one of our favorite hacks that a creator on TikTok popularized. Trust us: This trick is going to have you clicking “add to cart” on Amazon in no time!

How to Light a Room Without Overhead Lights

If you love lighting ideas that are easy to hide, you’re going to love this hack. In this viral video, TikTok user @our_gaff_ demonstrates how they easily adhere LED light strips to a wall in their home using simple Command strips.

In this quick DIY, the creator brings a glow to their living space in a matter of minutes, making this one of the most simple hacks for ambient lighting. Plus, visitors won’t ever notice the LED light strips behind the couch—just the radiant light they provide. Give it a try, and we’re willing to bet you’ll be hooked.

@our_gaff_ DIY LED sofa light! Command strips and led lights are all you need 😁 #diysofalight #diy #homehacks #sofa #moodlighting #homeideasdecor #homedecorideasuk #ukhomedecor ♬ original sound – GeeOfDee

In the video, the creator places the light strips behind their couch. The result is soft, ambient lighting that brightens up the entire space—not to mention how it elevates the vibe of their living room. We love the look of the light strips behind the couch, but you could also adhere these in other locations in your home, too. And if you really want to add some funky flair to your space, you can switch it up with these colored lights that are going viral on TikTok!

Other Ideas for Lighting a Room Without Overhead Lights

If you’re really committed to mood lighting, you may be seeking additional ways to keep your space bright while contributing to the ambiance of your home. Here are some of our other favorite no overhead lighting solutions you can try.

Wall Sconces

Wall sconces score major points because they look elegant and add desirable soft lighting. These would be a valuable addition to several rooms in your home, but especially your bedroom. Place one on either side of your bed, and you’ve got yourself a gorgeous night light perfect for doing some reading before bed.

Table Lamps

Of course, you can’t go wrong with an old reliable table lamp. Whether you want to experiment with modern table lamp styles or keep it traditional, adding a few of these to your living room will keep it well-lit and stylish.

Floor Lamps

Don’t underestimate how much visual interest floor lamps can add to a living space! Choose the right floor lamp (we recommend checking out these floor lamps on Amazon) and it’s both a statement piece and valuable lighting. You can even build your own floor lamp.

Cove Lighting

Effective lighting is especially important in places such as the kitchen where precision is your top priority. Give cove lighting a try if you’re seeking a unique, ambient light in that room.