How to Choose the Right Light Fixture

It's a common question... how do I choose the correct light fixture/chandelier? I am going to help you.

What size should I be looking for? And to be perfectly honest, often I just eyeball it. However, I know that many clients like to be more precise than that and need concrete directions on this subject.

What size do I need? If we are talking about the foyer, entryway, family room or bedroom - the easiest way to get an approximate height is to take your ceiling height and times it by 2.5. For instance, if your ceiling height is 10', you would take 10 x 2.5, which would be 25, so a light fixture about 25" tall is what you need to use as an approximate size. Really anywhere between 2.5 and 3 is good. So for 10' ceilings, a light fixture about 25" to 30" is a good place to start. Some light fixtures are very "airy" and are visually light, so in those cases you can even go on the larger size. As far as the width goes, take your room dimensions and multiply. For instance, if your room is 12' x 15' that is 12 plus 15 equals 27, so use 27" as your estimate.

What about over my kitchen table, dining room table or island? Where should I hang it? Hang your chandelier so that it's lowest point is 34"-36" from the top of the tabletop. If you want to place two smaller light fixtures over a long table or island, choose a diameter that is about one-third of the width of the table or island.

There are so many great sources and designs now. The right lighting can make a huge impact and give your room a whole new feel. It is amazing the personalities that light fixtures have these days! They are so fun!  So go ahead and replace that dated light fixture.... you will be glad you did. 

 

Just wallpaper it!

There's nothing better than getting in a new wallpaper book down at Barbara Stewart Interiors! I love looking through the books, seeing all the new designs, and checking out all the new patterns, colors and textures!

Here are some tips to help guide you through the process of selecting a new wallpaper...

* First of all, have a professional wallpaper hanger come over and measure to tell you how many rolls you will need. He will be the one hanging it, so you need to have him measure it. These guys (or ladies) have done this long enough, they know what to account for (windows, doors, sinks, etc) and they will also take into consideration the pattern repeat of the wallpaper you select. If your pattern has a large repeat, you will need more rolls. The last thing you want to do is run out of wallpaper. I think it is always a good idea to order one extra roll. You just never know!

* Determine how durable this paper needs to be. Is it going into a room that doesn't get much wear and tear like the dining room or guest bedroom? If so, you can use a more delicate material and texture. Or it is going into a bathroom, kids room or entertainment space that gets used everyday? In that case select one that will be able to be cleaned off with a damp sponge easily.

* Take a good look at the space! Bedrooms call for a serene and quiet pattern and softer shades that will create a restful feeling. You can go for bolder more colorful patterns if wallpapering kitchen, living area or entertainment space. Another thing to take into consideration is the size of the space. Smaller patterns work well when the area has lots of windows, doors and wall art - and you can use a larger pattern when you are able to see a large area of wall.

* Here are some ideas to inspire you to just wallpaper it!