Shelves were born to serve. They help us organize our lives, asking for little in return (especially floor space). Boasting more storage per-square foot

By Meaghan Leonard with Hooker Furniture Even though I am in my senior year studying interior design at High Point University, I just recently learned

How should I light my Living Room or Family Room?

Living rooms and family rooms benefit from the layered approach perhaps more than any other areas of the home.

If a television is present be sure to have soft ambient light to make the viewing experience pleasurable. These rooms are perhaps the most used rooms in a home so remember to avoid glare off of reflective surfaces. Task lighting may also be important in parts of these rooms so think about everything that goes on in these rooms when planning your lighting.

Once I have the right size chandelier, my dining room is complete, correct?

Not quite. The chandelier should not be your only light source in the room. Wall sconces, and buffet lamps are some examples of fixtures that can help balance this room. Also, don’t forget light by candle, or possibly by fire when planning your dining area.

In location of lighting, are there other do’s and don’ts?
 

One of the most important interior design considerations in the placement of light fixtures is the glare they produce. Direct glare – as from a bare light bulb – is the worst kind.

Always use the correct bulbs to avoid glare and also beware of reflected glare, light that bounces off of other objects into the eyes.

My room seems too big/small…. how can lighting help?

The direction in which you point the light can be very helpful. Ceilings can pose problems, or they can become special features. If the ceilings seem too low, bounce light from up-light fixtures (like torchieres) as this can visually “raise” the ceilings. Cathedral or beamed ceilings can also he highlighted and take on new importance in the overall design of a room with up lighting. Two common problems in older homes are rough or patchy surfaces., and high, cavernous ceilings. To alleviate lighting issues, keep the lighting off the ceiling by using only down lighting (like chandeliers or semi-flush mounts). Imperfections in a surface will be less noticeable without direct light shining on them.

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Room dimensions can “appear” to be altered with the proper lighting. Smaller rooms can look more expansive and large rooms can be warmed with the correct lighting fixtures. Washing the four walls of a room with soft light, combined with a light toned paint can create the effect of a larger room. Conversely, a large room illuminated with a few soft pools of light concentrated on certain objects or areas can make a room feel smaller and more intimate.

Decorating Is Not Complete Without a Selection of Stylish Lamps. Lamps bring not only light, but great style as well. They have two roles. One

Having a beautiful home isn’t just about matching colors and patterns and great furnishings. In fact, a well designed room isn’t going to mean much to you if it doesn’t feel like it’s a good representation of you.

Part of the joy of home ownership is the ability to personalize your space, making it a reflection of who you are and what is important to you. Accessories will help you personalize and pull together your rooms for a look that is uniquely you.

Begin small. Wow, a whole house is intimidating, no matter how much confidence one might have. I think a bedroom is a wonderful way to