Design Lighting

The Look: The concept of "ambient lighting" (illumination that comes from all directions) is particularly important in the living room, an area of the house where people tend to gather for long periods of time and engage in an array of activities.

How to get it: Stay away from downward-facing recessed lights, and instead use lights that bounce off the ceiling for ambient illumination. Use soffit (light under a hanging structure) or valance (light on a wall, shielded by horizontal panels) lighting, recessed or track lighting that is directed toward the walls, or even with plug-in floor lamps that have upward-facing bulbs.

The Look: With its dual purpose of food preparation/cleanup area and gathering spot, the kitchen requires careful consideration of both task (directional) and ambient lighting.

How to get it: Utilize the natural window light with a ceiling mounted or recessed fixture above the sink. Using under-cabinet lighting is a good way to illuminate the countertop work surfaces without relying on an overhead light that will cast shadows on the person working at the counters. You don't need lights in the middle of the kitchen. Instead, make use of directional lights on countertops and kitchen islands.

The Look: With its emphasis on personal grooming that requires viewing oneself in a mirror, bathroom lighting should be more task-oriented.

How to get it: A perfect light scheme includes lights above and on both sides of the mirror to help fill in shadows.

The Look: The primary focus of dining room lighting is the table, and fixtures placed directly above the table may provide both ambient and task lighting for this room.

How to get it: Dimmers and dimmable light bulbs are particularly desirable as they provide flexibility in establishing a relaxing atmosphere. But don't forget to light the walls, as dining rooms often have decorative paint treatments or wallpapers.