Good Taste / May 2007
Let There Be Light
There’s more to light than meets the eye, according to GE Lighting Specialist Kathy Presciano. When developing a lighting plan, homeowners should look at the entire space, considering how each room is used and what tasks will be taking place there. It’s important to consider dimensions, décor, furniture placement and existing fixtures, as well as windows and skylights that provide natural light.
Since it is both a workplace and a room for casual entertaining, the kitchen should be able to change its mood to suit the moment. According to Kathy, “A well–designed plan provides ideal lighting for every situation. Start by imagining all the activities that will take place here-dining on the island, food preparation on the counter, reading the newspaper-and consider layering light to help you be most productive and comfortable in this space.”
Even light distribution and flexibility are essential in the kitchen. She suggests recessed fixtures spaced evenly throughout the kitchen with additional lighting positioned above islands, working countertops, sinks and ranges and perhaps, some additional ‘task’ lighting. “You likely will want lights directly above the island. In addition to the downlights throughout the kitchen, consider some nice hanging pendants with halogen lamps.” Under-cabinet lighting can be helpful as well. “Mount fixtures on the leading edge on the underside of the wall cabinets to light the front edge of the kitchen work surface. For doing dishes and other preparation, it’s best to have fixtures centrally located above the sink.”
In today’s multi–purpose dining areas, lighting should be suitable for other family activities, too, like bill paying and homework. “Consider layering light for enhanced flexibility. Since activity in this space centers around the table, be sure you have plenty of light pouring down. Try a chandelier with dimmable features surrounded by two recessed fixtures for added brightness. The downlights will provide excellent light for the people, and the chandelier will act as the apparent light source. You should also incorporate other layers of lighting within the room. Downlights alone will cast shadows on the faces of those sitting at the table.”
According to Kathy, “The minimum diameter of the chandelier for most dining rooms is 20 inches and should be no greater than the length of the table minus 12 inches. Or, measure the width of the room in feet. Double that figure, and you will get the diameter of your ideal chandelier in inches. For example, a 12-foot wide room should have a chandelier no wider than 24 inches in diameter. Consider natural light, too, and try accent lights to highlight artwork, china cabinets, architecture and more.”
Bedrooms aren’t just for sleeping. Kathy believes they should have flexible lighting that can change from functional to romantic to suit the moment. “Bedside lights are key, for nighttime reading and for finding your way out of bed in the dark.” Lamps located on a bed–side table are one option, but for those who prefer clutter–free nightstands, ceiling-mounted hanging fixtures can also provide close-up reading light. For suspended lights, consider mounting the switch within arm’s length from the bed.
“Another great option is to mount swing-arm lamps on the wall, enabling you to focus that reading light right where you want it.”
According to Kathy, “Recessed downlights will supplement bedside lamps. You may even consider dimmable lights-perhaps in the form of a wall-mounted sconce. This is great for mood-setting.”
One of the most important considerations, for bathroom lighting is shadow-free “grooming” light. The most important lighting is always near the mirror. “Grooming light requires shadow-less light from above and from both sides of the mirror or counter. Never aim the light directly at the mirror or the result will be unpleasant glare.”
If the mirror is 36 inches wide or greater, she recommends a ceiling fixture at least 24 inches wide or shielded wall fixtures mounted above the mirror. “You may also opt for a fluorescent tube light or several energy-efficient bulbs down each side of the mirror. For bathrooms with small mirrors, select three matching fixtures. Use a ceiling fixture above the front edge of the counter top or sink and hang two light sources-preferably pendants-on each side of the mirror about 60 inches high and 30 inches apart.”
For bathrooms with high ceilings, track lights can be used to accent tub and shower areas. Bathrooms larger than 100 square feet should have overhead and mirror lights, but smaller bathrooms are often fine with just mirror lighting.
Safety should be the top consideration in the bathroom. Lighting fixtures should be positioned so they won’t come in direct contact with water or wet hands.
Copyright © 2007 A Woman's View. All rights reserved.
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