Decorating Lifestyles Blog

Lighting June 4, 2008

Have you taken a look around your rooms lately, or even outside, at your current light fixtures?  This area is so often overlooked - people will purchase new furniture, paint a new wall color, totally re-accessorize a room, and not think about updating the lighting!  Besides the fact that new lighting can achieve that “instant decorating”  I have talked about before, changing out your light fixtures can be very affordable.  If you are lucky enough to have a husband, brother, or friend that knows how to change light fixtures, then you really must consider this now!

Here are a few guidelines that I offer clients when taking on this project themselves.

~ If you’re not sure where to start, think about your outdoor entry or garage lights.  These seem to be forgotton about most often. 

~Think bigger this time.  Most outdoor lights, entry lights and chandeliers can be replaced with something a little bigger, usually it’s better to try going bigger - remember, lights always look a bit larger when on display in stores.  Here is a little guide that works great for selecting a new light that will hang over a table:  The light should be hung 20-27 inches above the table (most chandeliers are hung way too high, so try and follow this guideline for a well-decorated look!).  Add 3 inches to the distance for each additional ceiling foot.  So in those rooms with vaulted ceilings this rule should be followed precisely.  A chandelier or pendant lights width should be at least 12-18 inches less than the tables width.

~It’s OK to mix finishes, anything pretty much goes now.  A black or iron finish is versatile enough for most room styles, and you can mix a nickel or bronzy finish with it.

~One easy way to improve your lighting situation is simply to reduce the bulb wattage, especially on an overhead light in a family or dining room-if a 60 watt is the maximum, use a 25 or 30 watt bulb.  You may also want to add dimmer switches.

~We can’t forget about ceiling fans for those who have them.  First, do you really need a light fixture attached to it?  These can be removed and just have the fan.  Or if you do need the light, put those lower watt bulbs in, get a dimmer switch, or replace the light with a light kit that has a bowl light. This diffuses harsh downward light from exposed bulbs.  Most light kits are universal to existing fans.

~We should talk about other lighting sources as well - like lamps and sconces.  Three light sources are typically recommended in most areas.  Again, replacing table lamps can be very affordable and can update a room instantly.  Mix those finishes or go for a matching pair of floor lamps on both sides of a sofa.  Lowes or Home Depot will sometimes have a set of table and floor lamps in a box for as little as 50-60$.  I also like the wall sconces that can be wall mounted -JCPenney and Home Decorators Collection- and just plugged in to an outlet (make sure you are buying this type versus some that have to be wired by a pro or very good handyman).  Make sure you are not looking directly into a light bulb when sitting near a table lamp. 

Just start with one room and see what a huge difference updating your lighting can make.  My clients are always amazed at the change it makes to a room or area.

Please read my Decorating Tips category for a few more lighting solutions.

As always, be brave and make a few changes, you’ll love how it reflects YOUR lifestyle.

Happy decorating,

Carolyn