Style aside, indirect lighting is always better where the source is a near point source such as an incandescent lamp or a compact fluorescent. Indirect lighting means that the light is directed upwards; it's reflected and diffused from a white ceiling. This lighting is always more even, more efficient, more effective, and easier on the eyes than any kind of direct lighting except possibly linear fluorescents.

Indirect lighting's benefits were discovered and promoted at least 60 years ago. Americans were more thrifty - and perhaps more practical - in those days, so it was an easy sell. ;-)

The current fad for almost 100% direct lighting from cans and pendants is, in terms of functionality, a throwback to the plain steel reflectors used in the early 20th century.

With each passing year, I want and need better lighting to read or see anything it seems.

I want as much lighting as I can get, and it coming down, and not lighting up the ceiling instead. When I don't have enough light, I feel as if I'm going blind (which I guess I am with advancing age). Friends my age or older, say the same thing...can never have too much light, when light is needed for anything up close.

Sue