Mixing Metals
Interior lighting is one of the most important elements of a design, yet it is often one of the last details to be considered. No matter how carefully you've planned out your space, the design is not complete until the basic lighting elements are incorporated.
Not every space is fortunate enough to have natural light to create the perfect atmosphere therefore choosing the right artificial lighting is critical. Sourcing the perfect light fixture is quite time consuming as there are so many factors to consider but let’s be honest, choosing the light bulb has become one of the most stressful parts. Buying a light bulb used to be a quick trip to the hardware store and was so simple and inexpensive but now be prepared to include as much time researching the light bulb as you did the fixture.
LED options can be overwhelming. There’s warm light, cool light, day light, white light , vintage, voice enabled bulb, Bluetooth bulb, smart bulb and oh let’s not forget the shape of the bulb… pear shape, candelabra, globe, rope, tube, screw base, pin base, motion sensor, dimmable …..ouff..ok let’s just breathe. How about we stick to what we love best …the light fixture.
Warm VS Cool Lighting
We LOVE layered lighting!! We love pot lights, sconces, chandeliers, pendants, cabinet lighting, lamps and art lights and yes most preferably all in the same room since we like to use lighting to make the most of a room's size and shape. Up lighting makes a room feel larger, low hung pendants will create an illusion of height and clusters of lighting make large rooms seem cozier and we also have to take into consideration the tasks that will be completed in each space. Cooking requires more concentrated lighting, therefore a combination of bright downlights and recess lighting, in cabinets and above stove tops, is very helpful. For reading, flexible and directional lighting aimed away from you is best. Powder rooms require a combination of sidelights and downlights.
To make sure that the lighting does not overpower your space, dimmers will quickly become your new best friend since not only does it provide energy efficiency but is also an effective way to quickly change the atmosphere, mood and warmth of the room instantly.
Accent Lighting
Once we’ve decided what lighting we need to compliment specific tasks, we now have to source the perfect fixture and choose amongst thousands of options. Do you remember when we would choose one fixture and we purchased the entire family (and if you don’t remember those days, please appease us). The collection was found in every room in the house but those were also the days when buying a light bulb was easy. Thankfully we are all now comfortable mixing metals, collections, styles and yes…bulbs.
Ceiling Jewelry
Throughout the years, not only have we undeniably complicated the lighting shopping experience we have also completely stressed out every electrician and contractor as we have become incredibly particular and passionate about our love for lights. One thing is for sure, we have been so fortunate to have worked with amazingly patient electricians who stay calm and smile, well at least we think it’s a smile, as they help us navigate through our light fixture placement and light bulb dilemmas. A huge shout out to all our awesome local electricians and a special two thumbs up to Smiley John!
Electricians
We will admit that choosing the perfect fixture is not an easy task since a light fixture can become a focal point in the space so choose wisely, carefully, attentively but most of all have fun with it!
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