"blocking" is additional framing placed in a wall to anchor things onto. For using plaster molding (it is usually to heavy to be anchored into the drywall alone) it would be pieces of 2x4 horizontally between the studs near the ceiling. Some blocking (or a framing edge) should be present already to land the drywall top edge onto. Some additional blocking below that would be good for anchoring the plaster trim. place the blocking flush with the front edge of the stud on each side with the 4 inch face outward (might as well give yourself as much anchor area to hit as possible). I usually instal every other pieces by nailing through the studs, then go back and toenail the remaining pieces in place.

I think the better question is how far from the floor. I have a pet peeve against pendant lights hung so low that you have to be sure to look between them if trying to have a conversation across a counter. And they should be high enough that a tall guest (such as 6'5") can easily see beneath them if standing near them. I have the same comment for range hood heights. My tall husband gets frustrated to duck to cook with some range hoods.Or, to bump his head if he forgets to avoid hitting it. lafdr

Apparently Miele doesn't offer extended warranty on discontinued floor models. I looked up the model number for the floor model and it was made as early as 2012. I don't know when the newer models came out. How do I find authorized service centers for Miele? I didn't see it on their website. I searched Google and only found a few vacuum shops. I doubt they could fix my oven. I plan on calling Miele tomorrow.

I mounted them full-width of the room and LOVE IT THIS WAY! Thank you guys so much for the tip. Had it not been for you, I would have mounted close the window frame. Attached are photos and thoughts: - My room is actually pretty bright (window facing west), shooting against the light makes it look dark. - Yes, I know the curtains are way too short and not wide enough. I will buy double-width ones, and longer (then cut to the right length, just above the floor but not touching). - Yes, I will replace the ceiling fan. Let me know of any modern ones you think about. Either dark or light color is fine. - I will probably get rid of the vertical blinds and go for light-filtering curtains on the inside rod or bamboo/cellular blinds? The idea is to have an option to block out the harsh western sun at 5-8pm each day but not totally blackout the room. Any other ideas? - Are the curtains too high? I love the height but wonder if they are in fact crowding the molding too much. I also pulled the curtains too far out from the wall, I think if I push them in closer to the wall, it will crowd less. (I'm using Ikea curtain hardware with the adjustable slider mounts, btw.) - Are the curtain rods at the right distance from side walls? I think yes? - Do you guys think I should go for a lighter curtain color? I think I still like the dark rod. White rods kinda look too plastic-ey. - I love grommets because they slide and fold-up so nicely but willing to explore others (rod-pockets).