PERFECT SPACE: Make Your Living Room Most Livable

Photo courtesy of Crystorama

A beautifully lit space makes living and entertaining much more enjoyable. To create a well-lit space, light must be layered. This technique allows you to illuminate each feature separately to control the aesthetic focus.

Layering does more than just provide optimal lighting for reading and conversing. Lighting can draw the eye to the detail in trim work, emphasize cabinet grains, or even draw attention to the texture of flooring.

Photo courtesy of Tech Lighting

To make your living room a place for truly living, follow a few simple steps:

• Replace a large chandelier with two smaller ones, each on its own dimmer. Especially in larger spaces, multiple small chandeliers can help break up large ceiling expanses.

• Rotate shade colors on sconces and chandeliers by the season. It's a great way to freshen up a space without spending a lot.

• Add low-voltage lights as accents and spotlights. Re-positionable fixtures offer flexibility and control in directing light individually toward chairs and artwork.

For more lighting design ideas, visit Farrey's Lighting & Bath