The worst offense to me is lighting a room solely by one single overhead light- a dome light or fan/light combo. It creates a harsh atmosphere and feels institutional like a doctors office.. who likes a doctors office or enjoys being there? It makes a room feel smaller- the architectural details and corners are diminished and unflattered. Yes... in some cases overhead lighting is needed and is fine if partnered with other light sources- beautiful lamps, strategically placed recessed lighting, sconces, track lighting or a dramatic statement fixture.
For entertaining... never use an overhead light by itself... not only is it unflattering
to your walls, but is also very unflattering to your guests. No one looks good with a single light pouring its rays down on their heads... showing off wrinkles, baggy eyes and a much needed trip to the salon. Turn on the those table lamps, wall sconces, light some candles, and if you are lucky and blessed.. flip the recessed lights switch! Your rooms will glow and so will your guests. I've entertained for years and this works! Plus your guests will give you tons of compliments about your home and how cozy it is.
Another great thing about ambient light.. it hides flaws and dirt... kind of like putting a soft filter lens over your room. And if you didn't get the dusting done or the floors washed... no one will notice! Again I have experience with this. Everyone always remarks how clean my home is... ;) Now I must say that some rooms are very hard to light with lamps only. I have a wood cathedral ceiling in my living room and the lamp light gets positively swallowed up in the wood. I have the most lights in that room to compensate but really it's never quite enough. We didn't build our home so I don't have the luxury of recessed lighting which would help. What's a girl to do? Even being married to a carpenter has it's limitations!
The new light bulb regulations concern me. These "green" bulbs are supposedly good for our environment but to me... they cast COLD light and maybe not so good for me. And the bulbs themselves are ugly. This very much grieves the designer in me. Will I be perpetually depressed? I will have to constantly burn candles to cast some warm flattering light... this could get expensive. sigh. ~ the Artist
great articles on living room lighting:
http://www.foxnews.com/leisure/2012/08/28/7-tips-for-lovely-traditional-living-room-lighting/
http://interiordec.about.com/od/lighting/a/Living-Room-Lighting.htm
Pottery Barn- beautiful mercury side lamps!
Good example of multiple light sources
Pottery Barn- a light that angles over your sofa! Great for reading and knitting.
cozy
Pottery Barn- another creative angled light over sofa
Pottery Barn- bring nature in... beautiful twin glass lamps
a trend- bring an outside fixture inside for drama!
Pottery Barn has a great selection of unique wall sconces
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