| Selecting the Perfect Lamp | ||||
| 1. The perfect lamp
for your home should not just enhance the decor but also provide proper light where you
need it. A good rule of thumb is that you will need 5 lamps to light a 12 by 20 foot room.
Here is what to consider when choosing your new lamp. 2. What is the purpose of the lamp? Do you need general lighting to brighten a room or task lighting where you read or work? Do you want mood lighting or accent lighting to spotlight a special piece, or is the lamp itself a decorative accent to finish off a room? 3. Where will the lamp be placed? Generally, the light should be no more than 36 inches from the object to be lighted. For reading, the lamp should be placed beside the person's shoulder, with the bottom of the shade even with the person's cheekbone. To light a work space, place the lamp behind the person's working hand to avoid creating a shadow. The light should be about 15 inches above the work area. Place floor lamps about 2 feet behind the seating position, rather than alongside it. 4. What style, shape, and color do you prefer? Consider whether the decor in the room is traditional, contemporary, or transitional. Do you prefer ornate lamps or lamps with clean lines? You may want to bring fabric swatches or photos of the room to help you coordinate colors. 5. What type of shade should you choose? Translucent shades allow the light to flow into the room for general room lighting. Opaque shades work best for accent lighting or to direct light to a work area. 6. What is your price range? Lamps are available in a variety of price ranges. Remember that lamps often last several decades, so and investment in quality is worthwhile.
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