Tricks of the Trade from Murray Feiss Designers

A great lighting strategy can do so much more than create a safe, inviting atmosphere in your home. With the right lighting scheme, you can dramatically enhance your home's aesthetics (and value) by accentuating its best features, and
de-emphasizing "problem areas." Here, the world renowned lighting designers at Murray Feiss offer their exclusive tips and tricks!

Creative Ceiling Solutions

• To make low ceilings seem higher, bounce light from up-lighting fixtures (like torchiere-style wall sconces) to visually "raise" ceilings.
• To highlight dramatic Cathedral or beamed ceilings: Use wall sconces to cast uplight, emphasizing beamed ceilings.
• To disguise rough or patchy surfaces, keep lighting off of the ceiling by using only downlighting. Imperfections in a surface will be less noticeable without direct light shining on them. Beautiful, decorative fixtures (such as chandeliers) can also serve as alternate focal points.

Accent Lighting Tips

• Highlight textured surfaces for a fascinating look. Whether it's a tile backsplash or a stone fireplace, textured surfaces should be brought to life with the proper accent lighting. For the best results, "skim" the surfaces with a slightly-angled light.
• Consider backlighting decorative objects. Placing a simple light behind decorative fixtures, like plants or sculptures, creates a fascinating accent lighting effect. This works particularly well with accent pieces that have translucent components, like glass or even the water in fountains.
   

One of the nation's foremost lighting brands, Murray Feiss offers a wide range of fixtures that are "architectural in concept and comfortable in design. Browse all of our Murray Feiss designs to find a piece that's right for you!