Measuring Up your Home

If you’re planning on some home improvements this Spring and are looking at making cost-effective changes, look no further. The Light Company is a leading stockist of major lighting brands along with a range of homewares from the iconic Laura Ashley, including made-to-measure curtains.

Our expert Judy Davison would like to share some important tips when it comes to measuring for these specific items so you don’t make expensive mistakes and have to pay out to return items which don’t fit properly or suit the room they are intended for.

Measuring Up for Lights

Choosing the right lights for your home involves measuring the areas where you want to place them. Here’s what you need to do before choosing the best fit for your home:

• Determine the purpose of the lights before measuring. Do you need them for general illumination, task lighting, or accent lighting?
• Measure the height of the ceilings in the room where you want to place the lights. This will help you determine the appropriate size of the light fixtures.
• Measure the length and width of the room to determine the appropriate number of light fixtures. As a general rule, multiply the room's square footage by 1.5 to determine the wattage needed for the room.
• Consider where you want to place the lights and whether you want them to be wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or freestanding. Measure the available space to ensure the light fixtures will fit properly.
• Check for any obstructions, such as beams or vents, that may affect the placement of the lights.
• Consider the style of the room when choosing light fixtures. Choose lights that complement the decor and enhance the ambiance of the room.
• If you're unsure about how to measure for lights, seek advice from a professional electrician or lighting designer like the Light Company.

By following these tips, you will ensure that you choose the right lights for your home and create the desired ambiance in each room. Check out our website for the full range of lighting options here.

Measuring Up for Curtains

When measuring for made-to-measure curtains, follow these steps:

• Determine the style of curtains you want: Before measuring for your curtains, decide on the style you want. Do you want your curtains to hang to the floor or stop at the windowsill? Do you want them to have a gathered or pleated look?
• Measure the width of the window from left to right. If you want your curtains to extend beyond the window frame, add 20-30cm to the width measurement.
• Measure the length of the window from the top of the window frame to where you want the curtains to stop. If you want your curtains to hang to the floor, add 1-2cm to the measurement to allow for floor clearance.
• Consider the curtain header which is the top part of the curtain that attaches to the curtain rod or track. Depending on the header style, you may need to add extra length to the measurement. For example, if you choose a pencil pleat header, add 2-3cm to the length measurement.
• Check for obstructions as if you have any obstructions, such as radiators or furniture, near your window, measure around them to ensure your curtains will fit properly.
• Always double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy before placing your order.

When ordering made-to-measure curtains, it's also a good idea to consult the manufacturer's measuring guide or seek the advice of a professional if you're unsure. See our full range of Laura Ashley made-to-measure curtains here.