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When shopping for light fittings you will need to bear in mind what sort of light the lamp will provide. You might find a particular design immensely appealing to look at, but the actual light effect it produces could prove unsatisfactory for certain tasks. Make a study of the many different types of fittings on offer in specialist lighting shops before you come to a decision. By using a combination of fittings it’s possible to create a flexible lighting system that can dramatically change the mood of the room without compromising the more functional aspects of your lighting requirements. Single, central ceiling lights hanging from a flex do nothing to improve a room. A chandelier is a very different matter, especially when the level of light is controlled with a dimmer. Other forms of ceiling lighting that adapt well to most styles of decoration are low-voltage downlighters and wall-washers. Downlighters either provide general pools of light or pinpointed circles, depending on the angle of the beam in the reflector. Wallwashers are useful if you want to highlight a collection of prints or drawings. Spotlights can be mounted on a variety of surfaces and are adjustable: for example, they can be used to focus attention on a particular painting or work of art. Uplighters provide an effective form of background or ambient light by projecting a wide band of light onto the walls or ceiling, which is then reflected back into the room. By throwing the light upwards, you emphasize the height of the room.

Wall lights are available in any number of styles. Sconces can prove ideal for period- style rooms but make sure such a light is fitted with a dimmer switch, as the bulbs are often left unshaded and the light can appear harsh. Work or task lighting contributes enormously to making your living room an enjoyable and relaxing setting for work and study — reading in poor light results in eye strain and a lack of concentration, just as light reflected on a computer or television screen becomes a constant source of irritation. If the technicalities seem bewilderingly complex, think about obtaining advice from a lighting consultant. Many will provide the initial consultation free of charge. From the many fittings and options available they should be able to solve any lighting problem.

The installation of new wiring should of course be undertaken before you decorate, hence the importance of working out exactly where each fixed lighting point is to be located. Once you’ve decided how the room is going to be arranged, work out how you wish the room to be lit, according to the time of day and its various functions. Draw a clear, measured floorplan and elevation of each wall for your electrician, showing exactly where you wish points and switches to be positioned. If you leave the decisions to him, he will inevitably choose the easiest option, not the one that is most convenient or appropriate for you. Don’t make the mistake of underestimating the number of power points that you will need. Extra ones are easy and inexpensive to install at the initial stages, but when added as an afterthought with surface-mounted cable they hold little decorative appeal. At this planning stage it is important to separate the power circuit from the lighting circuit. The lighting circuit controls thosefittings such as ceiling lights and table lamps that will be operated from the room switch.

The power circuit allows for appliances that draw more power, such as hi-fi units, vacuum cleaners and computers.

It is of course possible to give any room an instant facelift simply with the addition of one or two well- chosen lamps. Low-voltage floor and table lights may cost rather more than the tungsten equivalent, but when linked to a dimmer they can transform the appearance of the room. Though they are somewhat pricey, when you decide to move on, the lights move with you. Another ploy is merely to substitute new lampshades for tired or dated ones, making sure you resist any temptation to play dull and safe.

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