Why not try lighting your living area solely with lamps? It’s an American trend that’s fast catching on. Choose lamps with interchangeable shades so you can follow the season’s colour fashion. Remember to ensure lamp points are part of the lighting plan for the room if you want your lighting automated.

 

 

 

Make a feature of your artwork with rod lights. They come down from the ceiling and distribute an even light to the art work – much like in a gallery. Choose a subtle colour so the light blends in with the rest of the room.

 

 

 

Pendants made from a natural finish such as porcelain work well with the earthy natural colours that are popular in interiors, as opposed to chrome or white fittings, which tend to clash with natural furnishings. Aluminium also matches well with natural interiors and isn’t as pricey.

 

 

 

The trend of indoor/outdoor living has led to the integration of indoor/outdoor lighting. A flick of a switch will light up the water feature and deck as well as the indoor eating area, forcing the fusion of indoors and outdoors. Create this effect by automating your lighting system.

 

 

 

Chandeliers are the perfect way to add a bit of glamour to your home. One thing to remember is that they are a feature art-piece rather than the sole light source. If there is a feature chandelier in the room, the main light will come from down lights and up lights distributed subtly throughout the room.

 

 

 

Feature pendants are great because they are a good light source as well as being aesthetically pleasing. Aligning three in a row creates a focal point for the room and distributes decent light to all corners. Try using feature pendants in the living room where good light is needed for entertaining, reading and television viewing.

 

 

 

Fluorescent lighting is making a comeback in the kitchen, replacing the popular cabinet lighting system. Lighting in a kitchen is about achieving the right brightness rather than creating a mood so fluorescents are the perfect solution. They are economical and create a bright, even light.