Q – How much light do I need in an area to light it properly?

A -  There’s actually a proven formula for calculating the proper amount of general light (usually expressed as the number of watts) you should have in each room or area of your home . . . and it’s not difficult, just some basic arithmetic.

Multiply the length times the width of the room.  Then, multiply that number times 1.5.  That gives you the amount of wattage you need to light the room properly for general illumination.

Example:  A room is 12 ft. x 16 ft. (12 x 16 = 192).  Then multiply 192 x 1.5 = 288 watts.  That means an 8-light chandelier using 40-watt bulbs would give 320 watts, which is even more light than needed.

For specific task lighting in areas where stronger light is needed, multiply the area’s square footage by 2.5 rather than 1.5 to find the needed wattage.  A kitchen work island or a desk area where schoolwork is done are examples of task areas in your home.

These same rules apply to every room or area in your home.

Q – How do I determine the proper chandelier width for a foyer?

A – Just add together the length and width dimensions of the foyer area.  What you get is the proper diameter for most any chandelier you’ll need there.
 
Example:  The area is 12 feet by 16 feet.  Added together this equals 28 feet.  Therefore, the foyer chandelier’s diameter should be approximately 28” in width.

Q - What is the height of the chandelier?

A – This depends on the height of your foyer ceiling.  Always keep in mind that the bottom of the chandelier should be at least 7 feet from the floor.  That may mean you need a flush mount (mounts directly against the ceiling), a semi-flush (also known as close-to-ceiling fixture, which hangs a few inches below the ceiling) or, if you have a tall ceiling, you may need a 2-tier or 3-tier chandelier.

If there is a window above the front doors, center the chandelier so it can be seen from outside.  If the foyer is extra large, you may also want to include wall sconces in the foyer.  Install them against the wall approximately 60” from the floor, 6 – 8 feet apart.

Q - What’s the best way to light a hallway?

A - There should be a fixture every 8-10 feet.  Either flush mounts or semi-flush fixtures can be used depending on the ceiling height (once again, remember that the bottom of the light fixture should be at least 7 feet from the floor).

If you have a long hallway, you may want to install wall sconces for added light and beauty.  The rule again is that sconces are hung roughly 60 “ from the floor, spaced 6 -8 feet apart along the wall.

Q- What is the best lighting source for a living room?

A - Your main light in the living room can be a chandelier, flush mount or semi-flush mount fixture. The bottom of the fixture should be at least 7 feet from the floor.

You may add wall sconces, or portable lamps to add more light and ambience. Sconces are hung about 60 inches from the floor.

Q – How do I determine the proper size chandelier for over a dining room table?

A – Here, as in the foyer, the dimensions of the room dictate the width (diameter) of the chandelier.  If that doesn’t appear to fit because of the size of your table, use ½ the table width for the chandelier’s diameter.

The bottom of the chandelier should be no lower than 30 inches above the tabletop.

Q – How do I highlight areas of special interest such as wall art or items inside a cabinet?

A – Recessed or track lighting can focus beams of light onto wall art objects.  Inside a breakfront or China cabinet, you can use low voltage Cabinet Lighting to provide the proper lighting.  The top and bottom of those pieces can be lit with Linear Lighting.

Q – What is the best general lighting for a kitchen?

A – You can use a chandelier, flush mount or semi-flush fixture as the main light in your kitchen. The bottom of the fixture should be at least 7 feet from the floor.

Q – What do I do about task areas such as islands, areas over the sink and counter tops?

A – A decorative pendant with 2 or 3 shades (depending on the size of the island) can be installed over your island for sufficient light and to add a decorative element to that area.

Q – How do I light a Dinette area?

A – Normally, a decorative pendant (single light – since this is generally a smaller eating area) or a Chandelier with a downlight will do the job while providing plenty of light on the table surface.  Use a dimmer to soften the light for mood dining when entertaining and to turn up higher for homework, hobbies, etc. when needed.  Again, the bottom of the pendant or chandelier should be 30” above the table.  Normally, 100 watts is sufficient for this area.

Q – What’s the best way to light a bath or powder room?

A – Most of us want to see a clear reflection in our bathroom or powder room mirrors so we can apply makeup properly or shave without cutting ourselves or simply brush our teeth correctly.

To avoid shadows, and to fully surround your face with flattering light, install a fixture at least 24” wide over the mirror, plus two wall sconces (one on each side of the mirror) at least 28” apart and 60” above the floor. If you have a double sink vanity, use a light that is almost as wide as the mirror.  The light should be mounted 78” from the floor, centered over the mirror.

Q- What is the best lighting source for a bedroom?

A - You can use a chandelier, flush mount or semi-flush mount fixture. The bottom of the fixture should be at least 7 feet from the floor.

You may add wall sconces, or portable lamps to add more light and ambience. Sconces are hung about 60 inches from the floor.

Q – What's the best solution for outdoor lighting?

A – You can add wall lanterns on both sides of your front door approximately 66 inches above the bottom of the door, slightly above eye level. The height of the wall lanterns should be from 1/5 to 1/6 of the entrance height.

Use a single wall lantern on other entrances to the house mounted on the keyhole side of the door.

You may use a chain hung lantern mounted over the front door beneath an overhang for added light.

Keep your pathways well lit with lanterns mounted every 8-0 feet for safety.

You can add a post light near driveways and walkways for added illumination and security.