Enhance home with good lighting

Once upon a time, installing interior lighting meant someone stuck a ceiling fixture in the middle of a room and called it a day. Often, that lone light was supplemented with a floor or table lamp.

Fast forward to present day. Lighting has become an integral part of interior design. Not only is lighting practical, providing illumination when sunlight is scarce, but it can be used as a decor element, adding drama and visual interest.

Manufacturers have responded by offering a wider variety of lighting fixtures -- pendants, wall sconces, chandeliers, recessed and track lighting -- that can complement all sorts of interior styles.

Before buying any type of light fixture, people should determine their needs. What is the room used for? Next, one needs to know the room's size (including height) and layout.

The American Lighting Association, a trade group of lighting manufacturers, divides lighting into three categories: general, task and accent lighting.

Rules for Each Room

• Kitchen lighting needs to be versatile. A small kitchen might require only a central ceiling fixture for general lighting and task lighting under cabinets to brighten a countertop. A larger kitchen with multiple features, such as a dining table, an island and a computer workstation, requires a blend of general, task and accent lighting.

Consider using recessed downlights over the stove and sink areas for cooking and cleaning jobs.

If a kitchen table is used, it should be illuminated. A decorative pendant light or chandelier are two choices. Add light above and under cabinets. Above-cabinet lights emphasize high ceilings; under-cabinet lights brighten a countertop.

• Bedroom ceilings are typically 8 feet to 9 feet high, so using a short fixture or one flush with the ceiling would be a better choice than a long one. Reconsider having a light installed over the bed. Soft light at face level is better than direct overhead light.

Add task lighting with floor or nightstand lamps on both sides of the bed.

• Bathrooms require proper lighting for close, personal tasks. Experts recommend starting with vanity lighting because it does the most work in providing light for makeup application, shaving and styling hair. Using layers of light is better than using one source. Layering also reduces glare.

Use frosted bulbs instead of clear ones to further reduce glare. Consider using a recessed fixture to light a tub. Aim the beam toward the tub's outer edge.

• Dining rooms benefit from layers of light. Place a chandelier over the table with accent lights on both sides. Accent lights such as wall sconces will help brighten the room's perimeter.

If chandelier-style lighting will go above the table, choose a fixture with a diameter 12 inches less than the table's width. It should hang about 30 inches above the table.

Consider using a dimmer switch with dining-room lights to create ambience.

Does the table do double duty as a homework area? Use a portable light to brighten the area.

High or vaulted ceiling? Consider a two-tier chandelier to help fill the space.