Perfect Lighting

The three types of light sources from which one can choose in planning a lighting scheme are:

• Incandescent
• Fluorescent
• Halogen

Most homes use incandescent bulbs because of the warm, natural-looking light. This type of light most closely mirrors daylight.

Used mainly in commercial areas, fluorescent light is more economical because it uses less energy and the bulbs last longer. Fluorescent light is being used more now in homes, but its main disadvantage here is that is makes skin tones look less natural. Also, most of these types of bulbs can't be dimmed.

Another energy-saving light is the halogen bulb. These bulbs last longer, and have a brighter, whiter lights than either incandescent or fluorescent bulbs. However, they are more expensive and their contact elements are not compatible with standard lamps

Keep this rule of thumb in mind: incandescent light is best in living and dining areas, fluorescent and halogen light is best for task-oriented areas.