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Design Help

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Perhaps you would like a new perspective on your lighting plan?  Just call for an appointment and bring your plans and selected material samples.  Melanie, our lighting consultant/interior designer, will help you define your lighting needs and offer suggestions on how to accomplish the best design for your space.  We can work off blueprints for a whole home plan, or help design a single room in your home.  
 
Well designed lighting brings out the beauty of your home, but choosing the right lighting can be difficult.  We want you to be confident with the lighting decisions you will make for your home with these valuable tips.

How much light do I need in an area to light it properly?

  • To calculate how much light you need in an area, multiply the length times the width of the room.  Then multiply that number times 1.5—that number equals the amount of wattage you will need for proper general lighting.

  • For a specific task lighting in areas where stronger light is needed, multiply the area's square footage by 2.5

 
How do I determine the proper width and height for my foyer light?

  • To calculate the diameter for your light, add the length and width of the area it is going in.  This measurement equals the diameter of the proper sized fixture for that area.

  • To determine the proper fixture height, the bottom of the fixture should be at least 7 feet from the floor.  Depending on ceiling height, you could use a flush mount or semi-flush mount fixture.

  • Two-story foyers will require a larger fixture, possibly a 2 or 3 tier version.  If there is a window above the front door, center the fixture so it can be seen from the outside.

 
What is the best way to light a hallway?

  • Ceiling lights should be placed every 8-10 feet.  Wall sconces should be spaced every 6-8 feet and mounted about 66” from the floor.

 
How do I determine the proper size chandelier for over a dining room table?

  • To size a chandelier for your dining room, measure the length and width of your room and add those figures together.  The sum, converted to inches will equal the chandeliers diameter.

  • In most cases, the bottom of the chandelier should sit approximately 30”-36” above the tabletop.

 
How high should I mount the wall lanterns around my front door?

  • In all cases, the center of the bulb should rest approximately 66” above the threshold of the door.

  
What about the body height of the wall lanterns?

  • When hanging 1 lantern-your lantern should measure about 1/3 the height of your door.

  • When hanging 2 lanterns-your lantern should measure about ¼ the height of your door.

  • As a general rule of thumb, your lantern should appear to be about half the size of your door from the street.

 
What is the best way to light a bath or powder room?

  • If one light is used, figure either full width of the mirror or up to a foot smaller on each side.

  • If you have a longer vanity with double sinks, consider using two smaller lights centered above each sink.

  • The lights above the mirror should be mounted about 75”-80” above the floor

  • If using sconces on each side of the mirror, the fixtures should be mounted at eye level to distribute light evenly across your face.

 
What size fan does your room require?

  • 90 square feet or less = 42” blade sweep

  • 90 to 100 square feet = 42” to 46” blade sweep

  • 100 to 150 square feet = 52” to 54” blade sweep

  • over 150 square feet = 56” to 70” blade sweep or multiple fans

 
Which direction should my fan rotate in Summer/Winter?

  • In Summer, the fan should rotate counter-clockwise.  This will force the room air down on you giving you the wind chill effect that makes you feel cooler.

  • In Winter, the fan should rotate clockwise.  This will draw the room air up towards the ceiling and force the warm air.

  • Adding dimmer switches on select lights gives you an even wider range of possibilities.

  • For larger room consider controlling regional areas separately.

  • Use the same color bulbs throughout a room for a consistent look.

Extra tips to create just the right atmosphere in your home:
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