At Home: Go to the dark side when designing lighting

Kitchens: Sink and stove areas benefit from having not only direct lighting from above, but also light from the sides. “You can eliminate shadows by including at least two sources of light,” Martin said.

Bathrooms: Sconces placed on either side of the vanity mirror give the best lighting for applying makeup and shaving. If you can't fit side sconces, and have only a single light over the vanity, add more light sources to balance shadows — and erase eye bags!

Bedrooms. Instead of bedside table lamps, Martin prefers wall-mounted fixtures with swing arms on either side of the bed. They can move to shine light where you want it, while freeing up room on nightstands.

Syndicated columnist and speaker Marni Jameson is the author of “House of Havoc” and “The House Always Wins” (Da Capo Press). Contact her via www.marnijameson.com.