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Layer lighting types for drama and function

Lighting is generally one of the last items to be added to a room. In truth it should probably be one of the first, since proper lighting will serve to increase the function, drama, and style of a room.

Aim for a mixture of lighting types when redoing a room. Add recessed lighting, undercabinet lights, uplights, chandeliers, and table lamps to create a range of lighting options.

Learn more about lighting in these links and articles.

LIGHTING FAQs

Q What kind of lights should I put in my new kitchen?

Provide various levels of lighting for the different tasks in the room. For example, recessed lights offer good general lighting. Undercabinet lights will help illuminate food prep areas. Uplights on top of cabinets can add a nice glow to the ceiling area. Add a ceiling fixture or chandelier over the island and perhaps a desk lamp to the kitchen office area. For more on light options, see "Easy Lighting Projects".

Q. I heard a decorator say that every chair should have a reading light. Is this true?

Yes, it's true but not always practical. For example it can be difficult to provide adequate reading lights to every sitting position on a large sofa. Table lamps can be set onto side tables, yet even without a table a floor lamp can be used. Small pharmacy type lamps are a great solution for tight spaces where a regular table or floor lamp may be too large. In some cases it will help to place a sofa table or cabinet behind your furniture where lamps and other accessories can be placed. Finally, recessed lights can be added above seating areas to provide additional illumination.

Q. How should I light artwork?

See this page with sources and information on picture lights made especially for artwork. Or, install adjustable recessed or eyeball lights in the ceiling, or track lighting that can be directed toward your artwork.

Q. Where can I learn more about lighting my home?

Browse the links with more information here: Lighting Links.

Q. How can I make a small room look bigger?

There are several tricks, but let's face it, your room size won't change. Mirrors are an old trick, but look best when in a natural position. Also, watch what they will reflect. Removing obstructions into the room will also help in some cases, as will keeping the color palette pale. Some wallpapers with open designs can expand the space a bit. Finally, be sure to add lighting with uplights, lamps, recessed lighting, bookcase lighting, and more.

Q. Is there any secret to decorating with dark colors?

Darker colors are dramatic and can create warm inviting rooms. If you are timid about using dark color on walls, try browsing decorating photos to get some confidence. Try the color in a small space -- a powder room, entry, or library. Or, divide the wall with chair rail molding and use the dark color either above or below. You can soften the impact of a dark color by contrasting it with liberal amounts of white or ivory on the doors, windows, and trim. Dark rooms are another good place to add lighting with uplights, lamps, recessed lighting, bookcase lighting, and more.

Q. My family room is on the north side of the house and it is too dark. How can I lighten it up?

You can warm up the room by painting it a warmer color such as soft gold, biscuit, or terra cotta. Then be sure to beef up the room's lighting. See several suggestions on this page of "Easy Lighting Projects".

Q. My husband wants to put in a ceiling fan in our TV room. I'm afraid it will be noisy and won't really cool off the room. Who's right?

Most fans are pretty quiet and most will do a good job of cooling the room. Be sure to size the fixture to your room's square footage (ask at the store or browse ceiling fan links online). You may want to avoid the cheapest models that can have a slight hum. Also, be sure to purchase a remote control kit if your fan doesn't come with one. The kit will need to be installed inside the box, prior to hanging the fan from the ceiling outlet. A remote eliminates the need to hard wire an electrical on-off switch and will not require the use of a dangling chain. Read more about ceiling fans here.