I get many questions about proper lighting, so, during these dark days of winter, I'll address a few of them.

• A minimum of three down lamps, placed in a triangular pattern, will ensure the dark corners of the room are illuminated.

• Under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen softens the edges of all of the hard surfaces, while still providing task lighting for the counters.

• Simply changing the shade can bring an entirely different look to a lamp.  Try Home Goods for inexpensive lamp shades.

• The distance from the top of the dining room table to the bottom of the chandelier should be 28"-36", depending on the size of the table and chandelier.

• Recessed lighting, while easily illuminating a room, does not provide the ambience that lamplight does.  And it can be difficult to read if that is the only type of lighting in the room.

• Accent lights are wonderful to spotlight items of interest, such as paintings or plants.  Or place them in bookshelves to draw attention.

• And don't forget candlelight for a warm, romantic glow!

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Volume XLI