The Right Light

It's more than an overhead light fixture! Or a table lamp set next to your favorite chair! A well-lit room includes four major types of lighting - ambient, task, accent and mood - all which create a dramatic effect in your room.

Ambient or general lighting is indirect, and literally bounces off the walls and ceiling to provide comfortable background illumination. It's important that it be distributed evenly in your rooms, so that no areas are overly bright or hidden in the shadows. Recessed and track lighting are considered two of the best general sources of light.

Task lighting, does exactly as its name infers - it provides necessary light for specific duties, such as reading, writing or cooking. Again, it's important that task lighting be shadow free. Because of its "localized" nature, two great examples are reading lamps and under-counter lighting.

Accent lighting is purely decorative, and includes everything from up-lights and torchieres to sconces and spotlights. If you want to accent a work of art, or draw attention to an architectural element in your home, then accent lighting would be your best choice.

Mood lighting generally comes from flexible light sources. For example, if you want to change the mood in your dining room, simply add a dimmer switch to your chandelier, and you've instantly changed your room's ambiance.

Lighting is essential to any room. You may have a wonderfully designed space but without proper lighting your room won't shine. Call INTERIORS by Decorating Den and ask for Mishanna Rischar for your free in-home consultation. 805.525.9800