Until recently, when people considered lighting, their thoughts turned to accessories like table lamps, ceiling fixtures mounted in the center of the room, and, if they were daring, perhaps track lighting. Those fixtures often tended to call attention to themselves and cast shadows in all the most unflattering ways. But that was then. Now the lighting design industry has seen a revolution in fixtures and methods. Because it influences every visual image we perceive, lighting is now recognized as integral to good overall design.

The kitchen is the new center for entertaining. Kitchen lighting should be both task-oriented and comfortable.

Today lighting designers keep the emphasis on people and their environment, through the use of unobtrusive fixtures and light sources. First, we assure a soft, overall illumination, or ambient light, using wall sconces, indirect cove lighting, or torchieres. Next, recessed adjustable fixtures provide accent lighting, the sparkle which brings out the beauty of your art and architecture. Finally, task lighting focuses light on the very spot you need it most for work or reading.

Dining area lighting is often overlooked. Don't miss an opportunity to show off.

Exciting possibilities materialize when you keep lighting in balance with people, art, and architecture. After you install a carefully designed lighting system, your rooms immediately open up. No longer is your attention attracted to glaring sources of light. Instead, you notice the impressive architecture and the fine paintings or sculpture.

At the same time, people become more comfortable and look their best, rather than finding themselves in shadow or eclipsed by art objects and light fixtures. You may find that now people congregate in areas they used to ignore. Just as music in films is most successful when it's not consciously noticed by the filmgoer, properly designed lighting is often most effective when it's least obtrusive.

Exterior lighting visually expands interior spaces.