Which are the three layers of lighting?

• A. Ambient, Task, Decorative
• B. Primary, Secondary, Tertiary
• C. General (Ambient), Task, Decorative
• D. General, Mood, Spotlight

Answer: (C)

In lighting design, you organize illumination into three layers: general (ambient) lighting to provide an even base, task lighting for specific activities, and decorative lighting to add visual interest and emphasis. General lighting sets the overall level of brightness so you can move around safely and see the room as a whole. Task lighting focuses light where you actually work or read, reducing shadows and eye strain. Decorative lighting, often called accent lighting, highlights features, textures, or artwork and adds mood and style to the space.

This option best fits that framework by naming General (Ambient), Task, and Decorative, making it clear that the first layer is the broad base, the second supports particular activities, and the third enhances aesthetics. Other choices use terms like mood or spotlight, which don’t align with the standard three-layer structure, or combine terms in ways that don’t convey the full, balanced approach.