When trying to solve a lighting dilemma – all kinds of solutions are tried that waste energy and do little to get the right light in the right amount to the right areas of the room. Because lighting can be one of the most difficult elements of design that many homeowners are unsure of the correct lighting solutions. Sometimes it’s knowing what not to do that makes all the difference. So here are some common lighting mistakes and how to get it right.
MISTAKE #1. INCORRECT LAMP HEIGHT
A most common question – What is the correct height for an end table, or bedside lamp, or buffet table? The answer to that depends on the height of the table on which it is to set.
MISTAKE #2. WRONG SHAPE OR CHARACTER OF LAMP
This is a very common mistake – and most of us have made at least once. A too small lamp on a large table or a very large lamp on a small table will not only make the lamp and table look disproportionate but it will also make the sofa or chair next to it look wrong. Take a look at your table. Is it a big heavy table? It will accept a large visually heavy style lamp. Is the table more petite or thin? The lamp for this table should be a lighter and more delicate style.
MISTAKE #3. INAPPROPRIATE LAMPSHADE
Like the lamp itself the lampshade has to be right as well. The most common mistake with the lampshade is buying one that is too large for the table the lamp is intended for. Choose a shade that has a diameter no larger than 2 inches less than the base height. For example, if your base is 15 inches tall the shade should not be more than 13 inches in diameter or widest part of the shade.