Chandeliers are now being used not only in the dining room, but also the living room, bedroom and bath, as well. When using a chandelier in the dining room, remember that it will be the focal point of that room. There is a misconception that the size of the room should determine the size of the chandelier. The size of the table is what establishes the size of the chandelier. A good rule of thumb, is to measure the width of the table (NOT the length) and then subtract 12" from that. This leaves the size of the chandelier that should be hanging above the table. 30" above the table is the perfect height!

Pendants can provide both task lighting and accent lighting and are a great solution to lighting kitchen counters and islands, as well as game tables and over end tables. Fixtures should hang 30" above the counter tops.

Foyer fixtures not only greet your guests, but make a statement about the importance of the entrance to your home. Unfortunately, most tend to size the foyer fixture too small, rather than too large. With today's high ceilings and two story foyers, the size should be determined not by the size of the "walk in" but by where it will be hanging, which might be 12 feet above the actual foyer floor, in a more open area, or centered in an atrium window. MOST foyers need substantially more than a dining room sized fixture. TOO large is better than too small. Ask a lighting representative to give you an idea of how large the fixture should be for your particular needs.

Wall mounted fixtures are becoming more and more popular, as a lot of today's home have no over head lighting. Larger rooms and more opened floor plans increase the utility of wall lighting. Consider using wall mounted fixtures for dramatic effect in the master bedroom. Mount wall sconces 62" to 72" above the floor.

Outdoor lighting is once again something we tend to purchase too small, rather than using the size of our entranceway, the size of the door and how far off the street one's home is, to determine

how large the fixture should be. A good rule of thumb is to hang outdoor wall lights about 66" above the ground. the size of the fixture should be about 1/3 the size of the door. If your home is far back off the street, you will want the fixture even largere. There is nothing worse than a home wiht lighting fixtures that are disproportionate to the front entrance and front of the house. This is immediately visible when approaching the home. So remember, better to have the fixture a little too large than too small.

Hope you enjoy these lighting tips. Stop back weekly for more. If you have a questionyou would like answered drop me a line!!! barbara@lampandshadeoutlet.com