Avoid using one central light source, which will create hard, shadows and possibly glare. Instead aim to use plenty of different lighting sources to create pools of light; this will give a more interesting effect.
Your main eating area, an adjustable reading light beside or behind your chair, which can be switched while seated, will prove invaluable. Two or three table lights or free standing floor lights placed around the perimeter will give the room a more spacious feeling. Picture lights or spot lights can be used to illuminate bookcases, pictures or any other interesting objects.Wall and pendants on a dimmer switch can raise the level of illumination in a room without needing to adjust any of the other light sources but beware of glare if they are mounted too high. Indirect lighting from wall washers (light fittings designed to light the wall and ceiling often made in ceramic or plaster) will create dramatic effects.
Remember that the light given from wall washers will be coloured by the surfaces on which they are mounted.Floor lights can be very effective at adding general lighting to a dark area where it is not easy to fit wall lights, ceiling lights, or table lights.A floor up lighter gives a bright wash on the ceiling. Some are fitted with dimmers and others have a second flexible arm for reading.
GB Lighting.co.uk, 99 Sleaford Road, Boston, Lincolnshire. PE21 8EY, Telephone 01205 355776 Copyright: GBLighting and all suppliers
