Should Lamps Be the Same Height?

Dear Melissa:

Should all of the lamps in my living room be the same height, and do you think that the lamps on either side of my couch should match? L. P., KY 

Dear L.:

The two most important things about lamps are (1) that you have enough light where you need it, and (2) that you aren’t looking up at the bulb when seated next to a lamp.

Lamps used as pairs should be the same height and scale, but these still don’t necessarily have to match. When you use lamps of various heights, survey the room to make sure your eye isn’t distracted by a large, showy lamp instead of being drawn to the focal point you intended.

If a lamp is too low, place it on a stack of leather-bound books for more height. Place a lamp that’s too high on a lower table, or try changing its harp or shade. Most rooms could use some height, so don’t exclude floor lamps. Why not consider a grouping of three funky accent lamps of differing heights, just for fun? M.A.K.

Carpet Care

Dear Melissa:

How should I care for a cotton area rug? It’s handmade and fairly expensive. Should I risk washing it? S.M., IL 

Dear S.:

Only if you want a misshapen pile of strings when you’re done. Fragile carpets should be treated professionally with stain repellants, kept out of direct sunlight, rotated regularly, and dry cleaned by a carpet expert. Treat carpets like the investments they are. Good care will prolong their life expectancy. M.A.K.

Quick Consultation?

Dear Melissa:

I’m not sure I want to invest in a decorator, although I need help with colors and mixing some patterns I have. Do decorators just do quick consultations? W.E., VA

Dear W.:

It is rarely cost effective for a decorator to come out to your home or office for just an hour consultation, although some do. You might get lucky if the decorator you want is having a slow spell during this economy, so call and ask. Perhaps the decorator will fit you in between local appointments, if you’re willing to wait. You may be charged a higher fee for a consultation, however; at the very least, offer the obliging decorator a cup of coffee. M.A.K.

Antique or New House?

Dear Melissa:

I’m house-hunting and the unthinkable has happened. I’ve fallen in love with an antique house with crooked walls and slanting floors. My friends are advising me to buy “new”, but my heart says this is the one. What should I do? N.K.., ME 

Dear N.,

Go with your heart, as long as your head agrees.

Of course the antique house has crooked walls and slanting floors. Goodness knows humans settle, too! However, that’s part of the charm. Talk to some owners of antique homes to get a feel for the lifestyle. Wonderful old homes often require concessions to modern living. They can be drafty and noisy (those creaks in the night and clanging pipes.) They require diligent ongoing maintenance, which can be expensive. Of course, if you truly desire an antique home, this is a labor of love.

Make sure you hire a qualified home inspector who specializes in old houses. He/she will understand the peculiarities of such a home’s wiring, plumbing, heating and structural systems. If there are significant problems, consider whether you have the financial and emotional wherewithal to correct them. I recommend waiting at least six months before considering any structural changes that may impact the home’s historical value. Get a feel for how you live in the house first, and always remember why you bought it in the first place. Good luck! M.A.K.