How to choose lighting for the living room

• How to choose the right lighting
• How to choose lighting for the living room
• How to choose lighting for the bedroom

* Ceiling lights that are a striking designer, like a chandelier, can create a wow-factor and add glamour to a living room. They also provide the best even light across the room, however very bright lights can make a room feel cold. Consider fitting the lights to a dimmer switch to control the brightness.

* Wall lights are a good way of creating a warm, welcoming feel. Fitted above the seating and in alcoves, wall lights can create a sense of different zones around the room, making it feel larger. Picture lights not only illuminate art or photograhs, they create a feature on the wall, and consider fitting lights under shelves for more atmosphere.

* Downlighters and spotlights are ideal if you want a minimal feel and don't want the lighting to make a statement.

* Lamps are more versatile than wall lights as they can be moved around the room to create different looks. Lamps come in many different shapes and colours and can be a useful way of defining a particular style, such as contemporary or traditional. Floor standing lamps are great for bringing extra light to a dark corner.

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