The Best Lighting Techniques

Light Dimmers

• Light dimmers are a traditional method of controlling light levels. They replace the "on-off" switches in your home. Sometimes, you may want a very brightly lit room, such as when sewing or doing other fine detail work. At other times, you may want dim levels, such as when watching TV. Dimmers are made for either conventional lightbulbs or fluorescent bulbs. Each type of bulb has its own dimming characteristics. Therefore, the dimmer units are not interchangeable. Lighting experts at General Electric Corp. recommend using a special fluorescent bulb if you're going to use dimmers designed for conventional bulbs.

Track Lighting

• If you have a wall that has to be highlighted, consider track lighting. These are small lamps mounted on a track suspended from the ceiling. The benefit of track lighting is the track is similar to a monorail system, and the lights are movable around the track. You mount the track first, and place the lights where you want them. Some tracks are flexible, allowing you to create a variety of lighting effects. These lights are useful if you have, for example, a painting that you wish to illuminate. Track lighting systems are readily available from suppliers, such as Lamps Plus.

Decor Matching

• You must consider the overall decor of the room when developing a lighting technique. For instance, if the room has a 19th-century Old West look, modern fixtures would look completely out of place. Conversely, if the room has a modern European look, Victorian-era lights would clash with the decor. In lamp selection and placement, a qualified interior designer or architect can assist you with making the right decisions.

Skylights

• Skylights are an energy-efficient way to let natural light into your home. Skylights are ceiling mounted, and have tubes that penetrate the roof. The tubes have clear covering, so rain and weather are blocked, but light is not. If you have a dim area of your house, consider skylights to let in natural light. A qualified roofer or builder should install these, since the lights have to be securely sealed at the roof. Also, a qualified interior designer can assist you with placement. Skylights are manufactured in a variety of styles, and readily available.