Lighting
Chandeliers should be hung centered above the table approx., 30 to 36” from the table to the bottom of the fixture
Kitchen island pendants should hang approx. 30-36” above the island. (make sure the light is not glaring in your eyes when seated at the counter.)
Sconces should be hung just about eye level in hallways or bathrooms. Sconces next to the bed should be at eye level when sitting in the bead.
Things hung on a wall
Art should be hung at eye level to the center of the piece in areas where you will be standing.
Art hung above furniture, (like a sofa or console table) leave approximately 6-9” of wall exposed between art and furniture
Hang robe hooks 60” from the floor in bathrooms. Hang toilet paper holder 26” from the floor. Towel bars 48” from the floor. The ideal height for a shower head is 75-80” from the shower floor.
Rugs
Rugs under tables should allow the chairs to rest completely on the rug when pulled out (about 24-28 inches larger on each side than the table.)
Rugs should allow approximately 24” or more of floor exposed on all sides of the room.
Stair runners should leave show at least 3 inches on wood floor on each side.
Rugs under beds should start at the edge or a couple inches further than the nightstand. (why waste more of the rug under furniture)
“Legs on Legs off!” When placing a rug in a seating area I use this to determine what sits on the rug. If the rug is large enough have all the furniture legs on the rug. (8 to 10-foot conversation area)
Smaller expensive rug; place the furniture legs just touching the rug. Less expensive rug: the legs can rest on the rug. (keeps furniture from sliding, but every time someone sits; the furniture may shift slightly pulling the rug fibers.)
Correct carpet padding is important under an area rug.
A few more numbers
The ideal distance between a sofa and a coffee table is 18” (You need to be able to reach your ‘wine’ glass comfortably)
Kitchen island counter height should be approximately 36 to 42 inches.
Counter extension for stools should be about 10”. Stools should allow for 10” between the seat and the counter.
