Designing for interiors is a balance of all elements.Lighting is the one element that can make or break an interior design.Lighting is the one element that can be altered, even after the floor coverings are down and the paint is dry.With a little clever and thoughtful planning, your room can be versatile with different effects and moods able to be created.

Initially you will need to measure the room and draw a very basic layout of where items are to go, including furniture, drapery, windows, artwork, feature walls, audiovisual equipment and the seating arrangement.

General Considerations for Planning Lighting

The Bedroom needs a varied lighting system. The best way to light the bedroom is by having several light sources instead of a single central light which may cast unnatural shadow.The range can vary from strong task light for dressing or working, to a soft subdued light for reading while your partner is sleeping.

Lighting for a bedroom can be dimmer.Lamps also bring a quite and relaxation mood.The shades should be deep enough to prevent glare,and its bottom should be at eye level, so its easy to read while sitting in a reclining position.The shades should be of natural color,not too dark or too light.Lamps with adjustable arms can be mounted on the walls.wall mounted spot lights that are aligned to the center of the bed and angled out.That way one person can read without disturbing other.

LIGHTS IN WARDROBES AND CLOSETS are beneficial,not just because they make clothes and other items easy to find,but because they ward off humidity,especially in rainy and winter months.Recessed down-lighters make the closet look attractive.

For bedrooms you will use a mix of table,wall,floor and pendant lights.General points to remember are:-

• A horizontal lighting system is required for your dressing table to avoid shadow on your face
• Lampshades which are dark from outside and white from inside will give your room a warm and cozy feeling
• Always shade the light bulb to avoid glare
• Vary the heights of the lights in the room; mix wall,table,floor and ceiling lights
• Position any task lights so you aren’t working in your own shadow.

ONE THING TO REMEMBER is that there should be always two sets of switches: one by the door and another by the bed.It is extremely tedious job to have to get out of the bed to switch off the lights.