Over the past several columns we've discussed planning a room, and how to work a furniture plan from conception to completion. This month, I'd like to address forms of lighting, and how to use light effectively in a space. All of us need and use lighting every day, but very few people give any thought to how lighting effects their room, their effectiveness, and even their mood.

Consider for a moment walking through a neighborhood just at dusk, as the sun is setting in a blaze of color and the warm golden glow of lamps shines out from the passing houses. It gives you a warm happy feeling, doesn't it? Compare that to the harsh glare of fluorescent lightning in any discount store… totally different feeling, isn't it? That is one of the best ways to describe the importance lighting gives to our lives.

Lighting your home is easy when you consider the basic ways that light is used. For our purposes, we are going to divide lighting into three categories, general illumination, task lighting, and ambient (or atmospheric) lighting. A good room generally has at least two of the types, a well thought out room has all three.

John Fortuna, The Design Dude

General illumination is usually ceiling or wall mounted, and thusly, part of the architectural shell of the room. Chandeliers, flush mount lights, most recessed lights, wall sconces, and bath wall fixtures are all classified as general illumination. When switched on, they provide light to the whole room. I recommend dimmers on all general illumination as the light can be excessively bright and difficult to control otherwise. The nice thing about general illumination though, is that it allows you a chance to express yourself and your design sensibility in a room that is easy to alter should you ever decide to move or change design themes.

Task lighting is anything that makes a specific task easier. This includes reading and desk lamps, under cabinet lighting, makeup lights and more. Think about how you are going to use the space, and plan accordingly. A good rule of thumb for table lamps is you should never go be able to sit more than 3 seats from an available

source of light for reading. That means at  absolute worst case scenario, in a living room with a sofa loveseat and 2 chairs, you should plan on 2-3 table lamps. You may, of course, substitute a floor lamp for one of these if you space requires it. A task light usually does not light a whole room by itself, but rather is supplemental to the general illumination.

Ambient lighting is used mainly for effect or to create a mood in the room. Ambient lighting is usually soft, subdued and doesn't have enough power on it's own to allow you to read or work in a space. Types of ambient lighting include toe kick lighting, art spotlights, picture lights, and candlestick and accent lamps. Think of ambient lighting as an enhancer of your scheme, and you are using it correctly.

Think of your lightning as more than a finishing touch, consider it an important component of your space! Until next month remember to look at, love, and live with great design!