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Lighting is an integral part of interior design and should be given as much consideration as you would give to paint colors and furniture styles. When planning your lighting scheme, think about the function of the room and the role that light will play in it. Different types of bulbs and fixtures serve different functions. For example, an art studio or office may require brighter and focused light, while a dining room could have softer light.

Lighting effects will greatly affect the atmosphere of the room. Ambient lighting is the type of light that washes an entire room with soft light. This is the basic lighting that most people have in their rooms. Accent lighting creates focused light on a certain object or architectural feature. Task lighting focuses light on a work area to help with visibility.

Different types of lighting fixtures can help you achieve the kind of light that you want. Ceiling fixtures are common for creating ambient light and are often found in hallways. Another option for general lighting is a floor lamp. Track lighting is a strip of spotlights that is mounted on the ceiling. Because you can usually adjust the direction of the spotlights, this source is excellent for general lighting as well as accent lighting. Other types of lighting include wall fixtures, table lamps, spotlights, pendants and chandeliers.

The type of light bulb you choose will determine the color of the light as well as intensity. Different types of bulbs work better for different purposes. Ordinary light bulbs are tungsten, and give off a slightly yellow glow. Halogen bulbs give off a pure white light that is comparable to daylight. Fluorescent bulbs give off a bluish, cool light. Incandescent light is warm and flattering. This category contains special types of halogen and fluorescent bulbs.

The most common issues people have in choosing a lighting scheme are saving money and energy. One option that is gaining popularity is LED (light-emitting diode) lighting. This type of light uses 75 percent less energy than typical light bulbs and lasts an average of 20 years. LED lights are slightly more expensive but will quickly pay for themselves by saving on energy bills. CFL light bulbs also use 75 percent less energy and last up to 10 times longer than typical light bulbs.

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