Illuminating Tips

One of the components often overlooked in a builder's model, yet one that is vital to its success, is pre-planning a lighting design, says Judith Sisler Johnston, president of Sisler Johnston Interior Design in Jacksonville, Fla. Professional interior designers will often work together with a lighting specialist to ensure that floor outlets are included when plans call for furniture to be "floated" in the center of a room or that unsightly cords will be eliminated.

Johnson also recommends that recessed lighting should be used in conjunction with decorative lighting in task and entertainment areas such as kitchens, great rooms and offices. Choose lighting fixtures after interior finishes and furniture are selected to ensure that they complement one another, she says. The right choice of lighting fixtures can add to a room's ambiance by setting a romantic mood or helping to fill up an expansive space.

Sisler Johnson Interior Design has won more than 50 awards from building industry associations.