Placement of lamps and fixtures relates closely to what you're using the light for, especially with task lighting. For reading, a lamp should always be placed behind the reader's shoulder and high enough so shadows don't fall on the page. The bottom of the shade should be at eye level to avoid glare. You shouldn't be able to see the socket, harp, or bulb from a seated position.

Put floor lamps to the right or left of the reading chair or sofa, about 20 inches away. Desk lamps should be placed so the lampshade is at eye level, with an opaque (not sheer) shade to cut down on glare. If you're reading in bed, side lamps should be at least 20 inches higher than the mattress, swing-arm lamps slightly higher.

For dining, place chandelier or pendant lights 30 inches above the table. Chandeliers should be about 6 inches narrower than the table on either side, so people don't bump the chandelier when standing. If possible, install a dimmer switch so you can create low ambient light and a wonderful sense of atmosphere. It saves electricity, too.

For watching TV, a low level of light is generally required, so light doesn't wash out the screen or bounce into the viewer's eyes. Hallways and foyers are the first place guests see when entering your home. Try lighting a hall table with an attractive, small lamp so that guests feel a sense of welcome.

Once you've lit areas properly for the activities that will be taking place nearby, consider the accent lighting. This lighting will be what makes a room memorable and inviting at night. First decide on several focal points. A beautiful fireplace can be accented with wall sconces on either side. Paintings hung on walls can be lit with picture lights that mount directly to the frame and shine a pool of bright light down on the art. Picture lights make paintings glow and come alive.

Art objects, collections, or even a bowl of fruit on a buffet table can be dramatically lit from above with recessed "downlights," which provide a warm bright spot of light. You may want to place sconces on either side of a buffet, or single fixture mounted directly above. China or glassware inside a display cabinet can be enhanced with tiny "striplights" under the shelves, making crystal sparkle even brighter.

Houseplants or potted trees can be lit from behind with "uplights," which create wonderful, theatrical shadows on a wall. And track lights in a room allow you to swivel light where you need it, and keep an ever-changing display of beautiful objects outlined with dramatic light.