Plan outdoor lighting around the entrance, routes and places you actually use after dark. Choose the position, light direction and controls before selecting the decorative fitting, then confirm that the exact product suits its exposure and installation.

Choose home accessories by giving each piece a purpose and a place. Measure the available space, check its practical requirements and decide what it contributes to the room before buying a collection of decorative objects.

Choose a picture frame around the image you want to display, then the position it will occupy. Check the image aperture, overall dimensions and standing or hanging arrangement before deciding on colour and decorative detail.

Choose wall lights around their purpose, projection and position. Decide whether you need useful reading light, softer background light or a decorative feature, then check the wiring, switching and dimensions before committing to a design.

Choose a table or floor lamp for the place where it will be used. Check the footprint, shade height, reach, switch and cable route, then decide how its light and shape contribute to the room.

Choose spotlights by deciding what each head should illuminate. The number of heads and the fitting’s appearance do not tell you whether it will light a work surface, a wall or a room comfortably.

Choose a lampshade by checking its fitting first, then its dimensions and the light it produces. A beautiful shade is only useful if it fits the base safely, screens the bulb from normal viewing positions and suits the space around it.

Choose a mirror that works with your room: practical advice on size, reflections, frame finishes, lighting and wall fixings from Illuminations of Camberley.

The essential questions to ask before buying decorative lighting, covering showroom viewing, lead times, bathroom IP ratings, LED dimming, whole-house planning, installation and warranties.