Fireplaces made of brick or stone can be emphasized with recessed
downlights installed in the ceiling over the mantle to create an
intriguing grazing effect across the surface. Wall sconces on each
side of the fireplace are an attractive addition that draws attention
to the fireplace area, while providing general lighting for the living
room.
Game tables require bright, even overhead lighting. Shaded pendants
equipped with either incandescent bulbs or energy-efficient compact
fluorescent tubes are one solution (see illustration). Or, install
two recessed downlights over each half of the table. |
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Reading requires task lighting that comes from behind the reader's
shoulder. This can be accomplished by placing a floor lamp either
at the right or the left of the reading chair. The bottom of the
shade should be located at eye level to avoid glare. |
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Paintings can be highlighted with low-voltage, tungsten-halogen
picture lights. These frame-mounted lights spread a beam of bright,
white light across the face of the painting.
House plants can be accented by aiming an uplight can at the wall
behind the plant, creating a dramatic silhouette of the plant against
the wall. |
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TV, video games, and computers require low-level general lighting
that does not wash out the screen's image nor reflect into the viewer's
eyes. Miniature track lighting can be installed under shelves to
provide both general and accent lighting. Choose from accent spots,
mini-lights, and compact or linear fluorescent light sources.
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Bars can be lighted from above with recessed or track fixtures,
or with miniature, low-voltage pendants that hover intimately over
the bar.
Glass shelves and glassware can be accented by two recessed adjustable
fixtures. The use of low-voltage fixtures with tungsten-halogen
bulbs will emit a bright white light that will make glassware sparkle,
while providing added illumination for serving and cleanup. |
