Achieve the perfect lighting

BULBS
Incandescents
Inexpensive, widely available in various shapes and sizes, and easy to install, filament bulbs are a popular choice. However, these bulbs often burn out quickly. Reflector bulbs, an incandescent subgroup, have a narrow, controlled beam that projects double the amount of light of typical filament bulbs. Parabolic reflectors have an even narrower beam, shining four times the light.

Halogens
Technically a subset of incandescents, halogens combine filaments with gas to create a brighter, whiter light. Although these bulbs are typically more expensive than incandescents, they last longer, can be dimmed and conserve energy. Low-voltage halogens provide the same type of light but in a controlled beam, practical for all lighting effects.

Fluorescents
Available in long tubes and compact bulbs, fluorescents last 10 times longer than incandescents, burn about five times brighter, consume less energy and emit little heat -- but can't be dimmed.

So, which to choose? "The trick is to match the type of light source with your decor," says Bruce. "You have to integrate it into the full design."

For a room with warm materials such as wood and terracotta, incandescent yellow or orange hues work well. With cooler tones, such as grey and blue, whiter halogens are a better choice as they render a room's colours truer than incandescents and fluorescents. For energy efficiency, though, choose fluorescents, especially in areas that you tend to leave lights on, for example hallways, kitchens and laundry rooms, suggests Bruce.

More important than what you decide upon, is when. After a new house is built or following renovations, rewiring can be messy -- and expensive.