Switchplates and electrical outlets should be painted or wallpapered, the same as the rest of the wall so that they blend in. Why spend money on an expensive brass outlet cover if you are just drawing attention to a plug? (If you own your home and your floor or table lighting is in the middle of the room, think about having an electrician install a couple of outlets directly in the floor below your lamps.)
Whether you own or rent your home, make sure that all the overhead fixtures have dimmers (http://www.dimmers.net/). Lutron makes some of the best dimmers around. They are aesthetically pleasing, quiet, and you can take them with you when you move (http://www.lutron.com/).
