How do I determine the proper size chandelier for the foyer?
Simply
add the dimensions together. For example, if foyer is
12’ x 16’, add the 12 plus 16 – to get 28. The proper size
chandelier would then be 28” in diameter. This works for any room. Make
sure the bottom of the fixture does not hang more than 7’ from the floor.
If windows are present, center the fixture in the window so it can be seen from
the outside.
Another
concept is to divide the width of the foyer by 3. For example, if the foyer
is 12’ wide, a 36” chandelier would center nicely with 36”
on both sides.
How do I determine the proper size chandelier for a dining table?
Choose a chandelier with a diameter half the width of the table.
It should be hung with the bottom of the fixture 30” above the tabletop
For and an 8ft ceiling. Go up 3” for each additional foot of ceiling.

When should I use a dimmer switch?
A
dimmer switch can be used with any decorative lighting fixture, such as chandeliers,
Pendants, or even bath lights. Use brighter lighting for parties while dimming
down for a quieter, more intimate setting. In addition to setting the right
mood dimming can significantly extend the life of incandescent bulbs.

What’s the proper height to install wall sconces?
Sconces
should be installed 60” from the floor. To illuminate an entire hallway,
they should be placed eight to ten feet apart.

When do I use portable lamps in a room?
They
should be used where additional task lighting is needed. The bottom of the
Lampshade for either a floor or table lamp should normally be 42” from
the floor.

Is there a rule for lighting a desktop?
Light
sources on desk should be approximately 16” above he work surface and
approximately 13” from the desk front.

How do I determine the correct amount of wattage to properly illuminate a 12’
by 16’ room?
Multiply
the room dimensions to get your total square footage (12 x 16 = 192). Then multiply
the square footage by 1.5 for the total illumination needed (192 x 1.5 = 288
watts) for specific task lighting within a space – for instance, the light
needed on an island in your kitchen – multiply the square footage of the
island (8’ x 4’=32 square foot)
Two 40 watt pendants would do the job.

In what area should I use semi-flush fixtures? What is their purpose?
The
ceiling height, the area, and the physical dimensions of a room will determine
the fixtures that should be used. Semi-flush fixtures provide unique styles
on low ceiling applications.

How can I get optimal lighting in my bathroom?
Avoid
shadows on your face with fixtures that use incandescent bulbs behind diffusers.
These radiate the most flattering light and color. Position sconces on both
sides of the mirror at least 28” apart and 60” above the floor to
fully surround your face with light, install a fixture that is 24” wide
over the mirror as well. Add a ceiling fixture to balance the light throughout
the room.

What are the differences between line voltage and low voltage?
Line
voltage is wired directly to your home’s 120 volt electrical system. Low
voltage needs a transformer to convert regular household current from 120 volt
to 12 volt.

What size outdoor lantern do I need on my house?
You
should think of the location from which the fixtures will be seen. While providing
safety and security, front lanterns mainly add to the décor and presentation
of your house. So the best viewing position is from the street. If the lantern
is too small, it may get lost on the huge expanse of the house front. Also,
think about the position of the fixtures in relation to the outlet box –
does it need to project upwards or does it need to hang with the majority of
the fixture below the junction level? The normal mounting height is 66”
above the ground, slightly above eye level.

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