Update and Re-Invent Your Home Lighting By Brian Gottschall At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

Lighting plays an important role in both the look and the function of your home. From simple table lamps to specialized fixtures and switches, there are many things you can do to bring some variety when it comes to lighting your home.

Dimmer switches:
Installing dimmer switches is a great way to increase the usefulness of your light fixtures. These can be installed on just about any kind of lighting fixture, from chandeliers to table lamps. Dimming the lights can create a soothing effect in any room of the house. In the bathroom, you can enjoy a relaxing soak in the tub after a long day at work. In the dining room, dim the lights for a romantic dinner for two. Or, create a soft glow in the living room when you are entertaining guests.

Accent lighting:
You can use simple up-lights that only need to be plugged in to the nearest wall outlet. These are great for illuminating dark corners and can easily be hidden on top of a dresser or armoire, or tucked away in a large potted plant. You can also install spotlights that are designed specifically to highlight artwork or design features of your home.

Table lamps:
Contrary to what you might think, table lamps aren't just for sofa end tables. They can add charm to a bookshelf and break up the monotony of rows of books or knick-knacks. A small, decorative table lamp can also be used in the corner of a bathroom or kitchen countertop.

Undercounter Lights:
In any area of your home where you'll be working with detail, whether in an arts and crafts room or in your kitchen, you'll want to have adequate lighting for the job. Especially in kitchens, undercounter lights provide both visual appeal and a practical solution to the needs of food preparation.

Layer Your Lighting:
In each room of your home, use two or more different types of lighting. For example, your living room may include a ceiling fixture, floor and table lamps, and spotlights for artwork. This principle applies to any room in your home. Layering your lighting serves the dual purposes of creating visual appeal, as well as providing the right lighting type for whatever task or activity you undertake in the room.

Install Motion Sensors:
Motion sensors can be practical both indoors and out. While most people are familiar with porch and floodlights that are activated by motion, you can install motion sensors in hallways and foyers indoors that are designed to light up in the night time. This enhances your safety, since it can prevent accidental injury in dark areas of your home. It's also highly convenient, and saves energy since you won't need to leave hallway lights on all night.

Explore novel ways to add light to the rooms of your house. Remember that creative lighting solutions don't have to be expensive, and many can be installed quickly without professional assistance. For example, layer your lighting by using a ceiling fixture, table lamps, and up-lights in the same room.

Once you've updated the lighting in your home, keep an eye out for areas that may require improvement. You may find that you need more task lighting in a certain area, or you may want to add additional accent lighting to highlight certain features of your home. Keeping your lighting fresh and up-to-date will enhance the form and function of your home.

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