This time of year, it can be a bit easy to get down about the amount of darkness in our lives. Sure, it's the festive season and all, with plenty to smile about, but with most of us arriving at work before it's fully light out and leaving the office long after the sun has set, it's easy to see how seasonal affective disorder can be a problem for so many people, not to mention a dip in vitamin D levels.
And while gorgeous lighting may not help with medical conditions caused by lack of sunlight, bright illumination in our homes can make the very short days seem not quite so bad.
Whether you're redecorating an entire room, or simply want to freshen up your decor with a new light fixture, there are many different options to choose from, including recessed downlights, pendant lamps and even elaborate crystal chandeliers - so how do you choose the right products for your requirements?
According to lighting expert Peter Bowles, the first step is to plan your new lighting scheme ahead of time.
"Too many people treat lighting as an afterthought, or place it a long way down the list of priorities," he says.
He suggests looking at the room at different times of the day in order to ascertain where natural light falls and how well it brightens up the room. Also determine any areas that may be underlit by artificial light - such as corners or small nooks. "Once you've assessed that, you're in good position to make a lighting plan and finally move on to choosing decorative fittings," Mr Bowles says.
When choosing the lights for your room, it might help to think about the fittings as jewellery for the space. You can choose between ornate items with traditional appearances, or opt for modern designs with simple geometric shapes.
Bowles also recommends homeowners consider the different types of lighting in order to achieve the best illumination and decorative finish. "A combination of general, task and accent lighting will ensure your home works on all light levels. Invest in good design with quality materials and sleek styling and it will stand the test of time," he advises.
