How Illuminating my home is.......

We are way beyond the point when lighting was simply functional, allowing us to work and not stumble around after the sun went down. If function was all it meant to us, every room in our house would have one huge, efficient, fluorescent light fixture on the ceiling and maybe a night-light or two for after dark. Instead, lighting does much more such as …

• Create a mood or atmosphere.
• Define a space.
• Provide security and safety.
• Highlight artwork or a section of your home.

Your lighting needs will be defined by these factors and others. Before you install a particular type of lighting, ask yourself the following questions:

• Who will be using this area and for what purpose?
• Do I want a traditional or modern look?
• How often will anyone be in this room?
• How much am I willing to spend?
• Is energy conservation important to me?

At a minimum, the code calls for one switch-controlled light per habitable room. Hallways, stairways, and garages also must meet this code requirement. This can be accomplished with permanent fixtures, such as ceiling lights, or through a switch-controlled receptacle into which a lamp can be plugged. Bathrooms and kitchens, however, must have an installed fixture. Your first step is to establish your minimum lighting needs and then choose the style of fixture you want to meet them.