Tips & Tricks

Lighting

• Choose a Lighting Focal Point
  • Not all fixtures, chandeliers, lamps, sconces should be the same size. Otherwise, the eye searches for visual clarity without landing on anything specific. For a large space, such as a dining room or family room, a chandelier makes a great focal point. In a smaller scale room, think about a distinctive floor lamp or vintage-inspired sconces flanking a piece of wall art.
• Consider Scale When Selecting Light Fixtures
  • Lighting shouldn't overpower a room—but it shouldn't get lost either. Scale matters when choosing the best light fixtures for your space. The length plus the width of any room in feet should generally equal the diameter of a chandelier in inches. For example, if you have a 10x10-foot room, your fixture should be about 20 inches in diameter.
• Layer Lighting for a Balanced Effect
  • Layers are important when it comes to lighting. For the best balance, aim for at least three sources of light in every space, including the salon. In small spaces, you can reduce the bulb wattage and the size of the fixtures to accommodate fewer square feet. Just don't ignore the accent layer, which helps to highlight the extra details you've used to finish your rooms.
• Fix Your Media Room Lighting
  • TV-focused spaces need less overhead light and more ambient and task lighting, such as lamps. This helps to reduce glare on the screen. Good task lighting also means that while the overall room can be dim, someone who wants to read can have ample lighting, thanks to a table lamp. Consider natural sources of light when planning a media room and install good light-controlling window treatments, so a sunny day doesn't dampen your entertainment pursuits