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Aside from helping you perform tasks more easily, make you feel safer and more comfortable; light can be the most dramatic way to decorate your home and can make a big difference in how you feel about your home. Lighting adds beauty and drama to a room. It can make a small room look open, and a large room appear cozy. It can create a stimulating atmosphere for a night of entertaining, or a quiet feeling of relaxation after a long, tiring day. In so many ways, lighting can make a difference and, it does so inexpensively compared to other home decorating or remodeling options.

A Refresher on the basics
Lighting should be planned to complement your lifestyle. When planning your lighting, look at the activities that occur in each room, the atmosphere you want to create and the decorative elements you wish to emphasize. Take note of those areas serving more than a single purpose and those that will require more than one type of lighting. Remember to deploy (or layer) the three basic types of lighting that work together to light your home as well as add general ambiance to each room.

General Lighting: Also known as ambient lighting provides an area with overall illumination
Task Lighting: Helps you perform tasks such as reading, cooking, homework, hobbies or home accounting
Accent Lighting: Brings focused lighting to highlight your prized possessions or a wall texture or feature A good lighting plan combines all three types to light an area, according to function and style. The following will help stimulate your own imagination as you go from room to room.

  Track Lighting (Accents) For Any Room
** PLEASE DESCRIBE THIS IMAGE ** Accent Lighting for lighting objects on a wall, the wall itself, or any
vertical surface, position the track and the fixtures as shown at left and use the following check list.

1....... Generally, fixtures should be aimed at a 30 degree angle fromthe vertical to prevent light from shining in anyone's eyes and to avoid disturbing reflections on the surface of the object. Usually, one fixture is required for each object being accented.

2....... Measure the distance ("B" to "C") from wall, on ceiling as shown in the table below.

3....... Mount track at "Location" ("A" to "B") from wall, on ceiling, as shown in the
A to B Location (inches) B to C Distance (feet)
13"
20"
27"
34"
41"
2 feet
3 feet
4 feet
5 feet
6 feet

  Track Lighting (Wall Washing) For Any Room
** PLEASE DESCRIBE THIS IMAGE ** For non-textured surfaces use wall washing.
For textured surfaces use wall-grazing as described below:
Ceilings up to 9 ft: mount the track 2 to 3 feet from the wall
Ceilings from 9 to 11 ft: mount track 3 & 4 feet from the wall.
When adding the fixtures (heads) space them the same distance
apart as the track is from the wall.

  Track Lighting (Wall Grazing) For Any Room
** PLEASE DESCRIBE THIS IMAGE ** For dramatic shadows on textured surfaces (such as draperies,
stone, or brick) mount the tract 6 to 12 inches from the wall,
with the fixtures the same distance apart and aimed downward
for a grazing effect.

  Track Lighting (as General Lighting) For Any Room
** PLEASE DESCRIBE THIS IMAGE ** General lighting can be provided by track fixtures aimed at the
wall or by spill light from fixtures used for accent lighting or
wall washing.

  Recessed Lighting (Accents) For Any Room
** PLEASE DESCRIBE THIS IMAGE ** Use the chart to select a bulb for the size of beam desired to accent the subject. Light levels range from 20 to 60 foot-candles at the center of the beam. Example: A 2-foot. mounting distance, a 50W "MR-16FL" bulb will cast an 8 x 3-foot beam.Lamps aimed 30 degrees from vertical. (L) & (W) indicate where candlepower drops 50% of maximum.
Distance from
Wall (D)
Lamp
Selection
Beam
Length (L)
Beam
Width (W)
2 Feet
from Wall
(8 ft. Ceiling)
50W PAR-36 WFL (12V) 5 ft. 2.5 ft.
50W MR-16 FL (12V) 8 ft. 3 ft.
75W R-30 SP 4.5 ft 2 ft,
75W R-30 FL Wall Bottom 7 ft.
3 Feet
from Wall
(10 ft. Ceiling)
75W PAR-38 FL 5,5 ft 2 ft.
25W PAR-36 NSP(12V) 2 ft. 1 ft.
50W MR-16NSP (12V) 2 ft. 1.5 ft.
50W MR-16 NFL (12V) 5.5 ft. 3 ft.
75W PAR-38 SP 3 ft. 1.5 ft.

  Recessed Lighting (Wall Washing) For Any Room
** PLEASE DESCRIBE THIS IMAGE ** Use the chart to choose the desired light level. Find the spacing (S) for the fixtures. For the required number of fixtures, divide the length of wall by spacing (S). Place the fixtures the same distance from the wall as (S). Example: For Medium Light Level with wall washers with 100W "A" bulbs, five fixtures are needed to wash a 10-foot wall.
Lamp
and
Wattage
Spacing(s) for
Medium Level
(15-20 footcandles)
Spacing(s) for
High Level
(30-45 footcandles)
100W "A" 2 ft. -
150W "A" 4 ft. 2 ft.
150W "R" 3 ft. 2 ft.

  Recessed Lighting (Wall Grazing) For Any Room
** PLEASE DESCRIBE THIS IMAGE **
The recessed treatment for wall
grazing is similar to wall washing
specifications. If the texture is
darker, use slightly brighter bulbs
Use the chart to choose the desired light level. Find the spacing (S) for the fixtures. For the required number of fixtures, divide the length of wall by spacing (S). Place the fixtures the same distance from the wall as (S). Example: For Medium Light Level with wall washers with 100W "A" bulbs, five fixtures are needed to wash a 10-foot wall.
Lamp
and
Wattage
Spacing(s) for
Medium Level
(15-20 footcandles)
Spacing(s) for
High Level
(30-45 footcandles)
100W "A" 2 ft. -
150W "A" 4 ft. 2 ft.
150W "R" 3 ft. 2 ft.

  Recessed Lighting (as General Lighting) For Any Room
Don’t worry..
it is not as complex
as it sounds
take your time!
General service "A" bulbs (in recessed fixtures) provide wide light distribution. "R" and "PAR" bulbs concentrate light. Coverage per fixture is based on providing 15 to 25 footcandles of light. In rooms with darker color use higher wattages. The "spacing ratio" number must be multiplied by the fixture's mounting height above the lighted area (tabletop, floor, counter, etc.) to give the maximum spacing for even illuminations.
Room Fixture “A” Bulb “R” Bulb
75 w 100 w 150 w 50 w 75 w 150 w
Cone 25 40 50 15 30 65
Baffle 20 30 50 10 25 60
Lens 25 35 55 - - -
Diffuser 20 30 45 - - -

  Living Room


When designing a lighting plan for a living room you'll want to include general lighting for entertaining, task lighting for reading, and accent lighting for artwork, plants, and interesting architectural features. Dimming controls are ideal for the living room to allow you to design lighting to fit moods and activities. Fireplaces made of brick or stone can be emphasized with recessed downlights installed in the ceiling over the mantle to create an intriguing grazing effect across the surface (see wall grazing). Wall sconces on each side of the fireplace are an attractive addition that draws attention to the fireplace area, while providing general lighting for the living room. Reading requires task lighting that comes from behind the reader's shoulder. This can be accomplished by placing a floor lamp or a table lamp either at the right or the left of the reading chair. The bottom of the shade should be located at eye level to avoid glare. Paintings can be highlighted with low-voltage, tungstenhalogen picture lights. These frame-mounted lights spread a beam of bright, white light across the face of the painting. House plants can be accented by aiming an uplight can at the wall behind the plant, creating a dramatic silhouette of the plant against the wall.

  Family Room



When designing a lighting plan for a Family room you'll want to include general lighting for entertaining, task lighting for games and hobbies, accent lighting for plant and interesting features. Dimming controls are ideal for the family room to allow you to design lighting to fit moods and activities.

Fireplaces made of brick or stone can be emphasized with recessed downlights installed in the ceiling over the mantle to create an intriguing grazing effect across the surface (see wall grazing). Wall sconces on each side of the fireplace are an attractive addition that draws attention to the fireplace area.

Reading requires task lighting that comes from behind the reader's shoulder. This can be accomplished by placing a floor lamp or table lamp right or left of a reading chair. The bottom of the shade should be located at eye level to avoid glare.

TV, video games, and computers require low-level general lighting that does not wash out the screen's image nor reflect into the viewer's eyes. Miniature track lighting can be installed under shelves to provide both general and accent lighting. Choose from accent spots, mini-lights, and compact or linear fluorescent light sources.

Track lighting makes a great addition for general lighting in a family room. especially in a renovation situation. Also see Living room tips for artwork and wall hanging lighting and plant lighting.

  The Dining Room




Dining room lighting should be both beautiful and functional. This requires a mix of general, task, and accent lighting that can set the mood for a number of functions, including a formal dinner, a family get-together, and other activities such as homework. Dimming controls will enable you to vary the light.

A chandelier is the focal point. It serves as a decorative style element that enhances the beauty of your fine furnishings. When the light is dimmed, a soft, glowing candlelight atmosphere is created. If equipped with a downlight, the chandelier provides task lighting for the table and accent lighting for a centerpiece.

Recessed or track lighting provides general lighting, while enabling you to highlight prized possessions. A ring of four recessed downlights around the dining table supplements the chandelier, while providing accent lighting for your tableware. The pure white light of low-voltage fixtures with tungstenhalogen bulbs will make your crystal and silverware sparkle

A buffet or sideboard can be flanked with wall sconces that complement the style of your chandelier. Displayed objects can be accented with recessed downlights installed in the ceiling.

A family portrait can be dramatically high-lighted with recessed adjustable accent fixtures.

A China cabinet, breakfront, hutch, or wall niche can become a showplace for your prized collectibles by installing strips of low-voltage mini-lights under the shelves.

  The Entertainment Room



When designing a lighting plan for an entertainment room you'll want to include general lighting for entertaining, task lighting for games and hobbies, accent lighting for bars and games tables. Dimming controls are ideal for the entertainment room to allow you to design lighting to fit party moods and activities. Track lighting makes a great addition for general lighting in an entertainment room as it allows you to direct light to the needed area and maintaining versatility.

TV, video games, and computers require low-level general lighting that does not wash out the screen's image nor reflect into the viewer's eyes. Miniature track lighting can be installed under shelves to provide both general and accent lighting. Choose from accent spots, mini-lights, and compact or linear fluorescent light sources.

Glass shelves and glassware can be accented by two recessed adjustable fixtures. The use of low-voltage fixtures with tungsten-halogen bulbs will emit a bright white light that will make glassware sparkle, while providing added illumination for serving and cleanup.

Game tables require bright, even overhead lighting. Shaded pendants equipped with either incandescent bulbs or energyefficient compact fluorescent tubes are one solution (see illustration). Or, install two recessed downlights over each half of the table.  

  The Kitchen



The kitchen is primarily a work area, but it is also a gathering place for family. Lighting should be comfortable and functional.

A large ceiling fixture, equipped with energy-efficient fluorescent tubes will supply plenty of well-diffused general lighting. Sink, range, and countertops areas need supplemental task lighting

At the sink & range, individual recessed downlight, equipped with an energy-efficient compact fluorescent tube installed in the ceiling or soffit, will provide needed task lighting

Undercabinet lighting is ideal for countertops. Mount as close to the front of the cabinets as possible to avoid glare reflecting off work surfaces. Fixtures generally range from 12 to 48 inches long and should cover at least two-thirds the counter length.

Kitchen cabinets can be accentuated by placing low-voltage mini-lights over, under, or inside cabinets.

Soffits and other concealed locations can also be treated effectively with ow-voltage mini-lights. These inconspicuous strips of miniature incandescent bulbs will highlight your cabinetry, while adding a warm, comfortable atmosphere.

  The Breakfast Room

Breakfast Rooms, Dinettes, or dining nooks can be lit with decorative pendants. Used with a dimmer control, these ceilinghung fixtures will provide extra “as needed” space for task lighting for homework, hobbies, or family business and allow you to raise or lower the light to fit the need.

  The Home Office


In a home office, you need an environment that is free of harsh contrasts and distracting glare. Add task lighting for office and computer work, and general lighting for the surrounding area. Ceiling fixtures can provide well-diffused general lighting, while eliminating shadows on the desk. Fixtures should be overhead & to the right & left of the desk so the light is over the shoulders. Lighting in front of a desk causes reflections.

Credenzas can be illuminated with slim undercabinet fixtures. Mount them as close to the front of the cabinet as possible to avoid glare reflecting off the work surface.

Pictures, mementos, professional certificates, or an attractive plant can be highlighted with track lighting.

A table lamp will provide additional light to the desk/keyboard areas. Position the lamp so it does not reflect in the computer.

  Hallways, Foyers and Stairways




In the entrance foyer, general lighting is needed to welcome guests and assure safe passage. This can be furnished by a handsome ceiling fixture that emits a generous spread of light. If more light is needed, consider placing matching wall sconces on either side of a foyer mirror. Hallways should be illuminated every 8 to 10 feet for safety. You can accomplish this with ceiling fixtures, wall sconces, recessed, or track lighting. Movable track fixtures will give you the general lighting you need for safety, while allowing you to accent any artwork or family photos.

Stairways should be illuminated from top to bottom to prevent accidents, with switches at both ends for convenience. If hall and foyer fixtures do not illuminate the entire stairway, you can install a chain-hung or close-to-ceiling fixture above the top step or landing.

  The Bathroom





In the bathroom, you need plenty of even, shadow-free general lighting for shaving, grooming, and applying makeup. In small bathrooms, mirror lights will illuminate the entire room, but in larger bathrooms, an additional ceiling fixture is needed for general lighting. A recessed infrared heat lamp will give you added warmth on chilly mornings.

For small mirrors, decorative wall brackets on each side will illuminate both sides of your face evenly. You can also mount a wall bracket across the top of the mirror. Fixtures equipped with incandescent bulbs behind glass or plastic diffusers provide the most flattering light. If you opt for more energyefficient fluorescents, choose warm white tones. They come closest to the color of incandescents. Theatrical lighting strips around your bathroom mirror will give you the same excellent lighting the stars enjoy in their Broadway dressing rooms.

Tub and shower enclosures can be adequately lighted by placing an enclosed damp-location recessed downlight in the ceiling. These downlights are also recommended over whirlpool baths or in saunas.

The Bedrooms




When lighting a bedroom, you will want a warm atmosphere of relaxation, while providing some bright spots for reading and relaxation activities. A combination of general and task lighting that takes into account the age and lifestyle of the occupants is needed. Dimming controls give you the flexibility to vary the light as needed.

General lighting can be provided by ceiling fixtures, chandeliers, fan lights, recessed lights, or wall sconces, giving you the light needed to dress and see into drawers and closets.

At the dressing table, an adjustable, lighted magnifying mirror will provide ideal lighting for grooming and applying makeup. For closets, a recessed or surface-mounted closet light is suggested.

Swing-arm wall lamps on either side of the bed provides light for reading, while leaving tables free for clock-radios or books. Alternatively, hang pendants next to the bed, or install recessed downlights in the ceiling.

Children's rooms will benefit from the use of track lights, which can be swiveled, rotated, and aimed in any direction to shed light on play areas, hobbies, or homework. As the child grows older, the fixtures can be moved and redirected toward a music cabinet or desk



  Utility Zones




Utility/laundry areas need plenty of well-diffused general lighting for sorting and spotting laundry, measuring detergent, and setting dials. A large ceiling fixture with energy-efficient fluorescent tubes should do the job. Warm white tones will provide the best all-around color rendition.

Utility Sinks need plenty of well-diffused general lighting as well. Consider either A large ceiling fixture with energy-efficient fluorescent tubes or track lighting works well.

 Don’t forget the garage and carport. Several large ceiling fixtures with energy-efficient fluorescent tubes are very inexpensive and offer significant value for providing a very bright and safe area for mechanical work, unloading the car or sorting through stored items. If the area doubles as a workshop or a garden shed consider task lighting to suit. Outdoor fixtures should illuminate driveways and yard areas.

Outdoors and Security





Outdoor lighting enhances the beauty of your property, makes your home safer and increases the number of pleasurable hours you spend outdoors.

 A well-lit front entrance enables you to greet and identify visitors. Wall lanterns on each side of the door and a recessed or a hanging ceiling fixture under a porch or overhang offer best solutions. A 2nd entrance can be lit with a single wall lantern. For using the garage at night, you can install a wall fixture on the face of the garage. Photocells are available to turn fixtures on at dusk and off at dawn.

Illuminate the side of the house by installing a motion or heat sensitive control that will switch on the light if someone approaches. An automatic timer can control a portion of your outdoor lights at night.

Paths/driveways can be illuminated so one can move about safely after dark. You can install path lights, post lanterns or attach lights to the side of a house. Path lights will brighten walkways, while highlighting flower beds, shrubs, and ground cover. Path lights and bollards can also be used to define the boundaries of driveways.

Decks, porches, and patios can be converted into romantic evenings by concealing lights under steps, railing, or benche. Install a spotlight in the branches of a nearby tree & add strong light over the BBQ and/or the serving and outdoor dining area.




  Summary
** PLEASE DESCRIBE THIS IMAGE ** Thank you for Attending Illuminations-U Individual Room (Decorate with Light) e-Lecture You are now ready to Decorate with Light !
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