THREE MAIN TYPES OF LIGHTING

1. Ambient Lighting (General Lighting)

This is one of the most common types of lighting. Ambient light is a soft glow that blankets your space
just enough for you to function without causing a harsh glare. In photography and cinematography,
ambient light is considered the natural light within a room. In dcor, ambient light is very similar,
except you create the ambient light by making the rooms lighting as natural and flat as possible.
While ambient light is meant to get you safely from point A-to-B, it is not ideal for working closely with
things or to highlight things around your space.

Atmosphere: When used correctly, ambient light creates a fantastic environment to relax from an
overly stressful day or to have a warm conversation with an old friend. Ambient lighting is often
referred to as mood lighting, because this light captures the soft curves of your face and allows your
pupils to dilate slightly (a physical sign of affection). Some yoga studios have even begun using the
softer ambient lighting in their classes to help draw stress from the body.

How to Get This Look: We recommend using the following lights to create ambient light.
Recessed or Track Lights. Try using a series of these throughout your space. These work well
with all types of ceilings, but if your ceiling is lower make sure the light isnt too harsh for the room.
Be careful not to over light the space. See the example with the track light below. Try these in your
bedroom, den, kitchen or living room.

Chandeliers and Pendants. These light fixtures work fantastic with taller ceilings. You can
choose which height is best for your lighting needs. Notice how the chandeliers below are placed lower
in areas people will not be walking near. They are also very classic pieces that work well in foyers,
over the tub in the bathroom.

Wall Sconces and Wall Lights. These are so versatile they work almost anywhere. Use these
carefully. If you use too many in one location it may cause a harsher light, but when placed sparingly
these work great in hallways, patios and porches. Try to incorporate the wall sconces into your homes
architecture.

2. Task Lighting
This is a smaller more concentrated light. You want task lighting around when youre working. In fact,
some people call it office lighting. Task lighting is meant to help you see when youre doing projects in
which you need a finer light, such as, reading, cooking, writing, sewing and many other things. Task
lighting only works well when it is used as a contrasting light. For example, if you have a low lit room
with a desk lamp turned on, the light in that area will be more effective with less glare than if the
entire room was lit with a brighter light.

Atmosphere. Task lighting helps naturally stimulate your brain. The contrasting light allows you to
be more alert and concentrated. This will help you see more details as you work, creating higher
quality results. This is why many businesses choose to use task lighting in their offices.

How to Get This Look: We recommend using the following fixtures to create task light.
Desk, Swing Arm and Floor Lamps. Use lamps on your desks, bedside tables, coffee tables
or anywhere you need a little extra light for working. Swing arm lamps allow you to adjust the light
anyway youd like. Since they are portable these are the ideal task lights.

Under Cabinet and Vanity Lights. These are the ultimate task lights. Under cabinet
lightswork great in your kitchen, like below. They add a flare to your kitchen and give the extra light
you need for chopping and cleaning. Vanity lighting works well in the bathroom and on dressing
mirrors. These lights also work in garages or workstations.

Pendant and Track Lights. Pendants are great because they can be placed in a lot of areas and
can hang directly about work spaces. Track lights are great for the same reason, except they can
typically cover a little more space. These lights are great for offices with rows of desks, above kitchen
islands and in childrens play/homework areas.

3. Accent Lighting
This is a very concentrated light with the intention of drawing the eye to its focal point. Accent lighting
is a way of adding style and drama to your home. This will help you illuminate the pieces you want on
display, while shadowing dull areas. People use accenting for wall washing, artwork, bookcase
displays, pieces of furniture, collections and the general architecture of their homes. Outdoor accent
lighting is when you highlight parts of the architecture of your home or yard. This is very popular
during the holidays, especially Halloween and Christmas.

Atmosphere. Accent lighting is one of the types of lighting that creates a very sophisticated
atmosphere. It evokes feelings of meaning and importance to the images it displays. This lighting is
used a lot for museums, historical buildings and art shows.

How to Get This Look: We recommend using the following lights to create accent light.
Wall Lights. Wall lights are fantastic for designing accent lighting. They come in a range of sizes
that allow you the highlight big or small pieces of art. These work great on art walls and for
showcasing the architecture of your space.

Recessed Lighting and Spot Lighting. These lights are often used for wall washing (when
you illuminate an entire wall with light). Recessed lights are great for accenting. Place them at the
base of your wall to illuminate a beautiful brick texture, a colorful paint design or display a huge bay
window.

Landscape Lighting. These lights are the best for showing off the outside of your home. Use
landscape lighting to light up a pathway, prized garden or statue.

For multiple types of lighting options consider using a light dimmer. Dimmers help achieve any mood
or look youre looking for at the push of a button.

The single most important concept in creating a good lighting plan for the home is to
use an array of different types of lighting. "My best advice whatever you're doing,
whatever you want to achieve, is to create three layers of lightingambient, task and
accent," says Patricia Rizzo of the Lighting Research Center. Too many people make
the mistake of expecting one type of lighting to do it all. Each type meets a particular
need.

Layering Light
Ambient Lighting

Ambient: Also called general lighting, ambient lighting provides overall illumination for a
room, and is intended to create a uniform light level throughout a space, independent of
any special lighting that may be needed in targeted areas of a room. In most home
settings, when a person steps into a room and flips on a switch, ambient lighting
illuminates the space. Ambient lighting takes many forms, including: ceiling-mounted or
recessed fixtures that direct light downwards; wall sconces or floor-lamp torchieres that

wash the walls with light; cove, soffit and valance lighting that bounces light off ceilings
and walls.
Task Lighting

Task: Targeted to a particular area of a room, task lighting is intended to illuminate a

specific function. Areas of a home that require task lighting include kitchen counters
where food will be prepared; living room seating areas where reading will take place;
and home office desk surfaces where paperwork will be done. In a kitchen, undercabinet lighting provides task lighting for a countertop; in a living room, a table lamp is
often used for task lighting to accommodate reading.

Accent Lighting

Accent: Also called highlighting, accent lighting draws attention to a particular object,
such as artwork, sculpture, plants or bookcases. Accent lighting is often used outdoors,
to highlight a beautiful tree, plant or water feature, or to draw the eye to a particular area
of the landscape. Recessed or track lighting is often used for accent lighting, with
adjustable fittings that allow light to be focused precisely even on a small object.
When planning the layers of light in a room, it usually makes sense to consider the
ambient lighting first, then consider task and accent lighting. "I like to move from general
to specific when planning the lighting for a room," says lighting designer Markus Earley
of Providence, R.I. With rooms that are heavily task-oriented, however, such as home
offices, some designers focus on task lighting first. And in a hallway that doubles as a
photo or art gallery, accent lighting might be the first consideration.
"It's so important to think about how you really use a space, and what you do in specific
rooms," says interior designer Bruce Fox, partner at Wells & Fox, which has offices in
Chicago and Boston. "Only then you can start to identify where you need task lighting
and accent lighting."

Types of Lighting Fixtures

Whether you choose a valance or pendant, there's a fixture for every need in your home

By: Jill Connors

Similar Topics:

1. Lighting

Many options exist for providing light in a home, from integrated architectural solutions
that require contractors and tradesmen, to decorative lamps that need only be placed
on a table and plugged in to the nearest outlet. Although some types of fixtures are
more commonly associated with a particular layer of lightingambient, task or accent
most fixtures are versatile enough to be used in a number of ways.
Architectural. The three most common forms of architectural lighting are cove, soffit
and valance; all three are integrated into the room's structure. Cove lighting is located in
a ledge, shelf or recess high up on a wall, and the light is bounced toward the ceiling or
upper wall. Soffit lighting is located in a soffit or cornice near the ceiling, and the light
radiates downward, washing the wall with light. Valance lighting is located in a wood,
metal or glass valance (horizontal shield) mounted above a window or high on the wall,
and the light bounces both upward and downward. The technique of bouncing light off
walls and ceilings is known as indirect lighting, which is favored by many lighting

professionals because indirect lighting minimizes shadows and glare. Architectural

lighting is most often used as ambient lighting.
Recessed. Installed above the ceiling, this type of lighting has an opening that is flush
with the ceiling. A recessed light requires at least 6 inches of clearance above the
ceiling, and insulation is essential to ensure that condensation does not drip into the
fixture. Recessed lighting sends a relatively narrow band of light in one direction; it can
be used to provide ambient, task or accent lighting.
Track. Mounted or suspended from the ceiling, track lighting consists of a linear housing
containing several heads that can be positioned anywhere along a track; the direction of
the heads is adjustable also. Track lighting is often used for task or accent lighting.
Undercabinet. Mounted under kitchen cabinets, this type of lighting can be linear or a
single puck-shaped fixture. Undercabinet lighting is extremely popular as task lighting in
a kitchen.
Pendants. Suspended from the ceiling, a pendant light directs its light down, typically
over a table or kitchen island. A pendant can enhance the decorative style of a room.
Pendants can provide ambient or task lighting.

Types of Light Fixtures

SEE ALL PHOTOS

Chandeliers. Suspended from the ceiling, chandeliers direct their light upward, typically
over a table. They can enhance the decorative style of a room. Chandeliers provide
ambient lighting.
Ceiling. This type of fixture is mounted directly to the ceiling and has a glass or plastic
shade concealing the light bulb. Ceiling fixtures have been common in homes for nearly
a hundred years, often providing all the ambient light in a room.
Wall Sconces. Surface-mounted to the wall, sconces can direct light upwards or
downwards, and their covers or shades can add a stylistic touch to a room. Wall
sconces provide ambient or task lighting.
Desk, Floor & Table Lamps. Made in a wide range of sizes and styles, lamps are
extremely versatile and portable sources of light in a room. Most lamps direct light
downward, with the exception of a torchiere, which is a floor lamp that directs its light
upward. Lamps are often used as task lights, particularly for reading, but can also
provide ambient light.

Lighting Use & Design

In many situations, particularly when people are concerned about security, there is a
tendency to over-light a park, plaza, street, or other public space. But in fact, too much
lighting can be just as bad as too little lighting. The key to developing a good plan is to
relate lighting to the evening functions of a particular space, because in the larger view,
street lighting is more than just a technical requirement, a security need, or a design
element. It can be thought of and utilized in terms of how the type, placement, and
wattage affect how a street is perceived and used.
Although its primary purpose is nighttime visibility for security and safety, successful
street lighting takes into account the human users of the street, not simply the
requirements set by local DOT and public works agencies. For instance, one way to

emphasize pedestrian activity over automobile traffic is to replace standard overhead

street lights with smaller-scale, more frequently spaced fixtures geared to pedestrians.

Why is lighting important?

What are the ways to use lighting?

How much lighting is enough?

How far apart should lights be spaced?

Are there other situational variables to consider?

Are there secondary functions for light poles?

WHY IS LIGHTING IMPORTANT?

Increases safety in areas that people use, such as doorways and bus stops.

Aids in geographic orientation,as people can use well-lit focal points (fountains,
buildings, bridges, towers, sculpture, et al.) as landmarks to help them find their way.

Highlights the identity and history of an area, for well-lit historic details draw
attention to the uniqueness of an area.

Creates a sense of drama.

WHAT ARE THE WAYS TO USE LIGHTING?

Landscaping: Trees lit with small white bee lights have become a popular sight in
many cities even outside the holiday season, perhaps because they impart a magical feeling
and bring positive attention to streets and public spaces.

Transit stops: People feel more secure when bus, train, or trolley stops are well-lit.
Lighting also draws attention to and encourages use of such amenities.

Entrances: Careful evening lighting around building entrances especially in

residential building doorways contributes to the safety of a district even more than
indiscriminate use of bright lighting that is not focused on areas of use.

Edges: The edges of a park or plaza particularly any interesting gateposts, fences, and
specimen trees visible from the adjacent street -should be lit to help define and identify the
interior space. Buildings located on the edges of a park can also have seasonal lights, bringing
attention to the larger district beyond the park.

Retail displays: Lighting retail displays, even when stores are closed, not only provides
ambient light for the street, but also encourages window-shopping. This tactic can help to
increase the number of people on a street, which is a major contributor to security.

Architectural details: Lighting entrances, archways, cornices, columns, and so forth

can call attention to the uniqueness of a building, place, or district and bring a sense of
drama to the experience of walking at night.

Signage: Well-lit maps, along with directional and informational signage, are essential
to providing orientation at night.

Focal points: Lighted sculpture, fountains, bridges, towers, and other major elements
in a district, especially those visible to passing pedestrians and vehicles, provide another
form of wayfinding.

As a traffic-calming device: The difference between a pedestrian-lit street and a

highly illuminated highway automatically signals drivers that they have entered a new and
different zone, and compels them to slow their driving speed.

HOW MUCH LIGHTING IS ENOUGH?

Different sources of illumination vary significantly with respect to the quality of light
they provide. This, in turn, has a dramatic effect upon the appearance and safety of the
street at night. High-pressure sodium, the light source typically used in city street-light
fixtures, casts a yellowish-orange glow that results in poor color rendition; it
compromises visual clarity and detracts enormously from the overall quality of the
nighttime urban environment. By contrast, metal halide as a light source produces a
soft, white glow that renders color accurately; it offers better visual clarity, improves
reaction time for vehicles, and requires less wattage for the same perceived visibility.
Quality of light is also influenced by quantity of light or more specifically, by the
relationship between the brightness of a light and ones distance from it. Light becomes
more diffuse farther away from the source, so for a given brightness, there is a range of
heights within which the source should be located to create the desired quality of light.
Height of the luminaire: Although luminaire mounting heights have typically
increased over the past few decades as lamp technology has allowed for higher and
brighter road lights, the result is often lighting designed for the car or the parking lot,
not for the person walking on the side of the street. Reducing the luminaires height, and
adjusting it to the scale of the person on the sidewalk, calls for more fixtures, which in
turn means that the luminaires, the poles, and their placement can have an impact on
the streetscape.

Type and wattage: However, as a luminaires height is lowered, the lamps brightness
must be adjusted so that is does not create excessive glare for pedestrians. At the same
time, the wattage must also be capable of adequately lighting the road. For instance, 9foot luminaires might be augmented with overhead lights because, depending on the
street width, the wattage needed to light the street would create a blinding glare for the
pedestrian.
HOW FAR APART SHOULD LIGHTS BE SPACED?

In addition to the height of the light source, appropriate spacing of light fixtures is
critical to achieving consistent illumination of streets and sidewalks, and to preventing
the pedestrian from encountering intervals of darkness. Consistent light coverage is
important, particularly along the sidewalk, because the perception of light is relative to
its surroundings. Therefore, a poorly lit area will seem so much darker in contrast to a
brightly lit area nearby.
The minimum required space between lights might meet lighting standards, but may or
may not achieve the desired effect. For example, a typical DOT lighting scheme for an
average street 40 in width (two traffic and two parking lanes) would have 25 to 40
cobra head lights every 125-150, staggered on either side of the street. An alternative to
this vehicle-oriented scheme is to reduce the height of the fixtures to 13 and place them
every 50 and opposite each other.
Sidewalk Placement: In addition to the technical criterion of the lights themselves,
the distribution of lightposts along the street can have a dramatic effect on the nature of
the street and its secondary uses.

Staggered arrangement: Staggering lightposts across the street from each other
allows for an arrangement that is less formal, and can potentially use fewer lights, since there
will be some overlap illumination.

Opposite arrangement: Light fixtures that are aligned directly across the street from
each other set up a more formal condition. Opposite arrangement allows for spanning the
street with banners or holiday lights.

Sensitivity to existing conditions: Although a standard distance between street

lights might be specified (say, every 40 or 50), make allowances to respond to existing or

recommended circumstances, such as a street caf, compatibility or conflict with existing

traffic signals, benches, bus stops, and telephones.

More closely spaced lightposts create a stronger edge along the sidewalk,
reinforcing the sidewalk itself as an exterior habitable space.

Using more numerous and closely spaced light fixtures is one way of lowering
the wattage, and therefore potential glare, of each fixture.

Street scale is an important factor in determining the appropriate configuration of

street light fixtures. Broad avenues require fixtures of a different scale from narrow side
streets, because the arc of light created by a source varies with its height from the
ground. Very wide streets may also require that the light source be extended further over
the roadbed. Getting light back onto the sidewalk, on the other hand, requires a
pedestrian fixture at a lower height.
Photometric analysis is an important means of determining the appropriate spacing
of light fixtures to ensure that light is spread evenly where it is needed.
OTHER FACTORS

A. Street Character
Special conditions relating to street character are also important considerations in
determining an appropriate fixture. Qualities such as the architectural or historical
character of the building or park edge, the existence and density of a tree canopy, and
the degree of ambient light are all factors. Each of these characteristics can strongly
impact the effectiveness and appropriateness of various light fixtures and must be
included in the analysis of lighting concepts.
For instance, if the main use of the street is to channel a rapid flow of traffic (e.g. a
highway or major arterial), the recommended light level would differ from that of a lowtraffic residential street which should in turn differ from a pedestrian-oriented
downtown street. Street lighting that is implemented as part of an overall streetscape
design in conjunction with other elements, such as benches, bus stops, and waste
receptacles, will reflect the pedestrian-oriented quality of the street, and can potentially
enable the off-street area (sidewalks, plazas, pocket parks) to be more conducive to
pedestrian and merchant activities.

B. Compatibility and Coordination

The choice of light fixtures must meet the communitys preferences, based on the
character of the street and surrounding neighborhood. Factors to consider include
number of luminaires per post (single, double, or lighting standards with three or
more); materials, colors, and finishes; and historical or contemporary style. Finally, in
order to design the street as a public space, light fixtures should be conceived of as part
of a coordinated line of amenities not pieced together from a variety of incongruous
components. They should appear compatible with litter receptacles and other street
furniture.
In addition, different light fixtures that serve different purposes should relate to one
another as part of a family of fixtures. This means that, in a given family, each of the
fixture components (base, pole, luminaire) should have stylistic compatibility, while
varying in form according to functional requirements. In addition, items that are
attached to the fixtures (signs, signals, signal box, etc.) should coordinate in appearance,
and the systems for attaching them should be integrated as parts of a whole, rather than
being sloppily fastened on as an afterthought.
C. Existing Conditions
Ultimately, every situation has a different set of variables, and the light levels must be
considered for each specific location. In addition to dealing with the characteristics
described above, lighting levels and an overall lighting plan must be derived from a
number of existing conditions (listed below), with other desired factors also taken into
account.

street width

sidewalk width

path width (in parks or plazas)

typical height of buildings

number, placement, and types of trees

types of paved surfaces

roadway geometries

length of the block

ARE THERE SECONDARY FUNCTIONS FOR LIGHTPOLES?

Individual pole decorations or banners: These can utilize single or double

attachments to the post. The luminaire height may effect the length of a side banner, which
typically may hang as low as 9. (So, for instance, a 3 to 4 banner could be hung below a 13
luminaire.) Attachments should be carefully detailed to complement the lighting style and
materials.

Street-spanning banners or decorations for holidays or special events: Spanwires to support accessory street ornamentations must be located at least 15 to 30 above
street level. The height must be sufficient to clear automobiles and trucks, while also relating
to the surrounding height of buildings and/or the character of open spaces. Note that streetspanning banners are not allowed by all city codes, and careful attention must be paid to
wind loads and attachments.

Planters: Best is either a non-irrigated, hanging planter or an irrigated model with an

enclosed pipe within the light pole

Additional electrical capacity may also be needed to assist in street, tree, and/or
event lighting.

How to Choose the Right Lighting for

Each Room
Six Methods:Foyer, Halls, and StairwaysLiving AreaDining RoomKitchenBath and VanityExterior LightingQuestions
and Answers

Lighting is one of the key elements that helps make your house a home. The proper
lighting enables you to perform tasks easily, makes you feel safer and more

comfortable, and allows you to enjoy your home at its full potential. Each room, however,
has specific and unique general and accent lighting needs. Here are some tips and
ideas to consider when planning your lighting needs for each room in your home. If you
are uncertain about what type of lighting fixture you need, or you're just looking for
inspiration, take a few minutes to browse through this guide!

Method

Foyer, Halls, and Stairways

1.

1
Use lighting and decoration for a first impression. The foyer conveys the first impression of
a home's interior. Center a traditional chandelier, contemporary pendant, or transitional close-toceiling fixture in your hallway to provide basic illumination and create a welcoming atmosphere.
Make your artwork come to life and illuminate it with halogen light from track or

adjustable recessed down-lighting. Mirrors also add a special decorative touch to a foyer.

Make sure to size the decorative fixture to the space. Not all foyers can accommodate a
large chandelier, so make sure the size proportions are correct. Likewise, if you have a larger
space, you'll need a larger fixture. If you'll be able to view the fixture from above, make sure to
select a foyer chandelier or pendant that looks attractive from second story viewing.

3
Remember that stairways and halls must have good general lighting for safety.To prevent
accidents, stairs should be lit from top to bottom with switches in both places. For safety in
hallways, place lighting fixtures every 8 to 10 feet (2.4 to 3.0 m). Tie in the fixtures you choose

by matching your foyer chandelier or pendant with close-to-ceiling fixtures for hallways and
smaller chain hung fixtures for stairways.

4
Use matching wall sconces to complement the hanging foyer fixture. Always mount a
sconce above eye level (approximately 66" from the center of the fixture to the floor) so that the
lamp source is not visible.

Method

Living Area
1.

1
Use lighting to bring out the best in your living spaces. Enhance your room's ambiance,
dramatize wall textures, accent artwork, or just provide general illumination for your den, living
room, family room, playrooms, or bedrooms. A variety of different types of lighting fixtures will
work for both your general lighting and accent lighting needs.

2.

2
Use recessed lighting to light a general area. This is preferred because the light source is
concealed. Close-to-ceiling fixtures, wall sconces, and interior lamps are also excellent choices
and provide ample lighting. These fixtures are not only decorative pieces, but are ideal sources
of task lighting for reading or playing games.
o

While traditional wall fixtures with arms remain the most popular form of wall
lighting, more contemporary wall sconces are gaining popularity for accent lighting.

3
Try recessed lighting or track lighting to make a room come alive by accenting artwork,
wall washing, or grazing. Interior lamps are also a great choice.
o

When table space is limited, wall lamps are a good alternative.

4
Try CFL Lighting to get more value for your money.

Method

Dining Room

1.

1
Create a focal point with lighting. Your dining table is in place, chairs are pushed in, and the
table is set. The only thing remaining to complete the picture is the center piece, your light
fixture. This lighting fixture is the focal point of your room, so it needs to express your own
personal style, while still satisfying general lighting needs. Whether your dining and entertaining
style is casual and laid back, or is generally more formal, choose a fixture that reflects you.

2.

2
Use a chandelier or pendant for general lighting. Both fixtures are excellent sources of
lighting and are sure to set the tone of your dining room. Recessed wall washers can also
provide additional light while helping to create an illusion of a larger room space.
When hanging a chandelier, make sure that the chandelier is 6" to 12" smaller

than the narrowest side of the table. The bottom of the pendant or chandelier should be
approximately 30" above your table.
Chandeliers with 200 to 400 overall wattage provide abundant illumination for a

dining room.

Consider a chandelier with an integral downlight for additional light on the table.

3
Add accent lighting to the room, too. Aim adjustable halogen recessed fixtures on the table
and chandelier. This will provide additional light on the table, and will also bring out the brilliance
of the chandelier. Consider companion sconces on either side of a china cabinet or hutch.
Cabinet lighting mounted inside valences and cabinets also adds drama.

Method

Kitchen

1.

1
Realize that the kitchen is often the busiest part of the house. Not only are your meals
prepared here, but your family and guests gather here as well. Sufficient and adequate lighting
is a must for performing all your culinary needs, helping your kids with their homework, and
reading the paper.
o

Sketch a plan of your kitchen that focuses on activity areas and then decide what
kind of light each area will need: general, task, accent, or decorative.

Use higher watt bulbs in task areas.

A glass or plastic pendant will provide ample "up-lighting" to cover the entire

dinette area with light.

2
Go with decorative fluorescent fixtures centered over a workspace. Kitchens less than 100
square feet require a two lamp fluorescent, up to 250 square feet will require supplemental
lighting. Down lights mounted 18" off the edge of the cabinets, and spaced 3' to 4' on centers is
an excellent way to create additional general lighting.

3
Use under cabinet lighting to help prevent shadows on the counters, while adding critical
light to the workspace. Fluorescent under cabinet fixtures are also a cost efficient lighting
source. In open areas over sinks use recessed downlights mounted directly over the sink.
o

Mounting mini-pendants 18" to 24" above the work surface is an ideal way to light
up a breakfast bar or counter dinettes, a pendant on a dimmer, hanging 24" to 30" above the
table, is ideal for task lighting. Size the fixture to roughly 12" less than the diameter of the table.

4
Illuminate your special home objects, architectural detail, or food presentation areas with
track or recessed lighting. Use under cabinet lighting in cabinets, valences, and toe spaces
and create drama while also supplying additional light to navigate around your kitchen in the
evening.

5
Choose fluorescent lights to provide that missing ambient lighting. The ambient light
provided by fluorescent fixtures will fill in your kitchen's shadows, reduce contrast, and light
vertical surfaces to give the space a brighter feel.

Method

Bath and Vanity

1.

1
Don't forget about the bathroom. Bathroom lighting is probably the last place people want to
invest time and money. Mirrors go unlit, and oftentimes one ceiling fixture is used to light up the
sink, mirror, and shower. However, as whirlpool tubs become larger and steam showers are
added, more and more time is spent relaxing in the bathroom. Since you begin and end your
day in the bathroom, why not spend a little extra time considering which fixtures and lights would
work best?
o

Halogen bulbs are generally the standard for bathroom lighting, but the newest
compact fluorescent bulbs are also a great option.

2
Use several recessed down lights or decorative surface-mounted fixtures for areas over
100 square feet. Add companion close-to-ceiling fixtures to supplement bath wall brackets in
larger bathrooms. Companion close to ceiling fixtures supplement bath wall brackets in larger
bathrooms.

3
Mount one fixture over the mirror to light a bathroom, but realize it can cause shadows
on the face. If using recessed lighting, avoid creating shadows by not mounting them directly
over the mirror.
o

Adding wall brackets to the side of the mirror is one of the best way to eliminate
shadows on the face. For mirrors under 48" wide use, vertically mounted wall brackets and
position them 75 to 80 inches (190.5 to 203.2 cm) above the floor.

If the fixture uses exposed lamps, do not use a higher wattage than 40 watts.
Fixtures with clear or well diffused glass use nor more than 75 watts. Color corrected fluorescent

lamps should be used when fluorescent fixtures are desired. A crisp white light renders skin

tones most accurately.

4
Use extra lighting in unexpected areas for both decoration and function. Try a small
recessed light directed at a piece of decorative art work or a beautiful powder basin creates an
extra layer of lighting.
o

In the shower, use recessed lights or a ceiling mounted plastic unit. Angle a
recessed shower fixture and highlight nice tile work or make your shower fixtures sparkle.

Don't forget the area over the commode! A recessed unit is always a great

addition.

Method

Exterior Lighting
1.

Use functional and fun lighting outside. Whether your goal is to enhance the beauty of your
home, or provide additional security, you have numerous lighting options to light up your home's
exterior. Extend the hours you can spend outside, or create a festive environment!

2. 2
Consider the types of lighting available. The selection of lighting fixtures is of two primary
types: decorative and functional.
3.

Use decorative fixtures are used along pathways, on walls and posts, and entrance
foyers. The design of these fixtures should complement the look and feel of your house and
landscape while providing sufficient lighting for safety, security, and functionality.
When installing a wall lantern, size the fixture to the door and surrounding space.

Wall lanterns should be mounted slightly above eye level at about 60" to 66" from the center of
the fixture to the floor. Post-top lanterns can be selected to match the style of the wall lanterns.

Large post top lanterns make a better impression when used in large open space.

Be mindful, however, that most lantern-style fixtures are glaring light sources.They spill
light in all directions and can be a cause of light trespass (onto others' properties) and
distracting glare for drivers. Many lighting designers forgo lantern style lights entirely and instead
use lights with hoods (that shield the glare) and lights that are positioned within plant material so
they are hidden completely.

5
Use hidden lights for functional purposes. They are strategically positioned around the
property to selectively illuminate plant material and architecture. A skilled lighting designer

positions fixtures so only the effect of the illumination is seen, not the lighting fixtures
themselves.

Include some lighting for security, too. Add landscape lighting, deck lighting, and step
lighting to not only bring out the beauty of the home at night, but also add extra security and
safety.

Reader Questions and Answers

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Try to use LED light everywhere. It is actually cheap if you think that it last for over
50 000 hours and use very little power. And the best is that it give very nice light
and is very elegant.

Tips
You can get a better sense of how long an LED light will really last by looking at its

warranty. If a light claims to last for 20 years, but only has a one-year warranty, then that's a
clue.

While LED lights are very good eco options, don't be fooled by claims of 50,000 hrs.
(about 20 years of use). These claims are for the tiny light-producing chips, not for the

electronics that allow them to work. LED's and their electronic components are very sensitive to
heat, moisture, and voltage spikes.

If the LED lamp is inside the home and is open to air (such as with track lighting) then
truly long life can be expected. If, on the other hand, the LED lamp is in an enclosed fixture
(especially in the outdoor environment) then life could be drastically reduced because enclosed
fixtures are like ovens that bake the LED's and make them very unhappy.

If you purchase a light with a three-way switch, you will need a three-way bulb.

Add on a dimmer and really set the tone of your room.

Use increased wattage in areas where tasks are performed, in rooms with ceilings higher
than 8 feet (2.4 m), and in rooms with dark colored floors and walls.