Three-layer lighting: ambient (general), task (specific work), accent (decorative) — every room
ROT/EXT-THREE-LAYER-LIGHTINGDescription
Every room should have at least 3 layers of lighting: AMBIENT (general illumination — ceiling-mounted, broad-coverage), TASK (specific work — undercabinet in kitchen, reading lamp at sofa, vanity lights at bath sink), and ACCENT (decorative + visual focus — wall washers, picture lights). Each layer on its own switch / dimmer for independent control. Avoid lighting a room from a single overhead source — it's harsh + uninteresting.
Why this exists
Layered lighting is the difference between residential interiors that feel warm + functional and those that read as 'lit by a single bulb.' The cost premium is small; the experiential difference is large.
Categories
Source
Solver enforcement
Browsable only — the solver does not currently enforce this directive (no spec-level data to check against). This entry exists so the architect personas can cite it in conversation and the user can read what the rule says.
Related directives
- Living room minimum size · LIVING-ROOM-SIZE
- Family room minimum size · FAMILY-ROOM-SIZE
- Dining room sizing · DINING-ROOM-SIZE
- Circulation as rooms · CIRCULATION-AS-ROOMS
- Habitable room aspect ratio · ROOM-ASPECT-RATIO
Last reviewed 2026-05-15.