Task Oriented Lighting, Drapes, Mud Room
and more Interior Decorating Advice

Q.It seems like all the lighting options that provide enough light for reading, crosswords, etc are heavy duty, industrial looking fluorescent fixtures. My eyes aren't getting any younger so I need bright light but I would like attractive fixtures and "soft" light if possible. Is it? Thank you.

A. It sounds like you are using overhead lighting (lights in the ceiling) for specific tasks. Overhead lighting is for the purpose of general illumination only.

It may help if you use a task oriented light. Some examples of these are a table style halogen that would have an adjustable arm or a pharmacy style lamp that is able to swing over your project.

Visit a lighting store and you will be surprised at the variety. Lighting just the area that you are working or reading in is the key.

Q. I was recently brought to task by a friend when I used the word "drapes". She acted as if I had used a curse word and said that they should never be called "drapes." They are "draperies." Is this true?

A. There are a hundred plus words that are specific to the window covering industry. They are used to clarify a style or method. Drapes or draperies are two of those descriptive words.

Window treatments can be very simplistic as well as very complicated. As a designer, I focus on the appropriateness of the treatment to meet the needs of the environment of the window and the people using the space.

The words that you use are tools in defining or clarifying a method to the customer or a workroom. In many cases there are multiple methods or styles used at the same window.

Also not all professionals use exactly the same words. I believe your friend is focusing on a moot point.

Q. Please settle an argument. What exactly is a "mud room" Is it the same as a "Florida room?"

A. A mud room is a space that is used for transitioning from outside to the living area.

The intent is that wet, dirty shoes can be cleaned or left there. Many times the "mud" room is also the laundry or everyday coat closet.

A "Florida" room is an enclosed area with a lot of windows that have the ability to be opened easily for a great deal of ventilation.