Beyond its functional role in cooking and entertaining, the kitchen is where memories are made and lasting bonds are created. If you find yourself glancing at your kitchen and sensing it needs a refresh, you’re not alone! Getting started can seem like a daunting task to undertake, but with some inspiration from these curated spaces and expert insights, you can transform your kitchen into a space you genuinely love. From sleek and modern to charming rustic kitchens, each of these spaces is begging to be replicated in your home and infused with your personal style. It’s time to breathe new life into your kitchen!

Moody Modern

Dressed in sophistication, this kitchen features dark marble backsplashes, gorgeous wood accents, and thoughtfully styled glass floor-to-ceiling cabinets. This space deserves lighting that highlights every square inch. The under-cabinet lighting and strip lighting in the glass cabinets create a moody ambiance with dramatic shadows and highlights that will have guests’ jaws on the floor the minute they step into this kitchen.

Cozy Corner

The contrast of the stark white against the warm earthy wood in this kitchen is enough to make anyone green with envy (like this daring backsplash)! The light and shadow of the sunlight brings beautiful dimension during the day, and when the sun sinks low, this trio of pendants takes center stage, bringing just the right amount of light to make this cozy kitchen corner glow.

Teal-Accented

This kitchen’s not short on space, but this clever play with colors makes the room feel even bigger. The color from the cabinets is carried seamlessly across the ceiling, creating the illusion of extra room height, and the white upper cabinets gracefully recede, creating the appearance of a wider space. The herringbone floors and luxurious marbled countertop and backsplash add layers of texture, personality, and warmth, and to crown it all, a stunning globe chandelier serves as the pièce de résistance, tying each element together into a harmonious display of creativity. Our love for this kitchen knows no bounds—it’s a masterclass in design ingenuity!

Charming Cottagecore

This kitchen is giving irresistible countryside cottage charm! The neutral color palette places the spotlight on the beautiful textures covering the backsplash, wood, and walls. The careful styling also pulls out all the stops, transforming this space into a haven perfect for late-night intimate conversations. Picturing a midnight snack beneath the glow of these pretty white pendants is nothing short of a dream!

Linear Kitchen

Clean lines give this kitchen a modern and industrial look where the natural beauty of the materials shines through. Every element – from the sleek cabinetry to the stone floor to the gorgeous linear light fixtures – contributes to a streamlined environment where form seamlessly meets function. In embracing clean lines, this kitchen stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of modern design, where simplicity becomes the ultimate sophistication.

Light and Airy

In this Scandinavian-style kitchen, light natural wood, subtle linear accents, and the inclusion of cozy chairs create an atmosphere that seamlessly marries modern design aesthetics with a warm, inviting aura. The light color palette brings airiness that feels both fresh and timeless while the linear accents (such as the backsplash and light fixture) bring order and simplicity. Adding cozy elements like the chairs brings a sense of hygge – a term embodying coziness and contentment – to the design, inviting guests and loved ones to come together and create lasting memories.

Monochromatic Kitchen

This small kitchen embraces the power of a monochromatic color palette where texture and scale are the unsung heroes. It proves that with a little creativity, gorgeous style is possible in any space! The ingenious globe wall sconce serves as a focal point that adds a touch of personality and is the perfect lighting solution for this small kitchen. By carefully selecting the right size features, every inch of the space was maximized for functionality and gorgeous aesthetics. Thoughtful design makes all the difference!

—

These seven kitchens not only showcase the transformative power of design but also emphasize that thoughtful choices can give you a kitchen that has it all – functionality and beautiful aesthetics. There are so many possibilities for a kitchen where creativity and connection thrive! Whether you lean towards the cozy charm of rustic aesthetics, the simplicity of a Scandinavian style, or a sleek and modern space, these kitchens prove that the heart of your home can be a reflection of your unique style and personality, and none of it could be possible without great lighting. Give Illuminate Lighting a call when you’re ready to create a space that truly feels like the heart of your home!

We all make mistakes – sometimes without even knowing it. If your home’s feeling dated and you don’t know why, these fixes will help you to bring your home out of the past.

Mistake #1: All grey interiors

Once the height of interior fashion, all grey interiors have fallen in popularity. Now, they’re more often seen as devoid of personality and boring. 

The Fix: Go bold

Bold colors are in! Tired of boring exteriors, homeowners are adding life and color to their homes. If a solid, bold color feels intimidating, try painting a single feature wall or hanging a large, graphic art piece instead!

 

Mistake #2: All tan exteriors

If you’re missing contrast, you’re missing out. For a long time, realtors and home builders encouraged clients to choose “safe” colors, but what we’ve ended up with is rows of dirt-colored homes that look like they’re lost in time.

The Fix: A bit of paint goes a long way

The easiest way to spruce up the exterior color of your home is to paint it – but that’s a pretty big undertaking. If a full paint job isn’t your idea of a good time, try painting your door to add a pop of color.

 

Mistake #3: Glass blocks in the bathroom

Wildly popular in the ‘90s, glass blocks were originally used to let light in without sacrificing privacy. But, they ended up being a trend that didn’t last. 

The Fix: Privacy glass

Many modern bathrooms use simple clear glass in the shower, but if you’d rather shower in private, go for patterned, frosted, or etched glass. This glass comes in a variety of “levels” – so you can find one that will meet your privacy requirements without having to resort to bulky glass blocks.

 

Mistake #4: Marble or tile countertops

In the 80s and 90s, marble countertops were often the go-to luxury choice, but it’s impractical in the kitchen because it scratches and stains easily. Today, marble countertops tend to feel over-the-top and dated. Tile countertops were also a popular budget option, but similarly, they are a nightmare in the kitchen – the grout is porous and impossible to keep sanitary and clean, and the individual tiles can crack if exposed to heat. Both of these countertop materials will make your home feel dated.

The Fix: Modern materials

The best option is to replace them with a more modern material like quartz or granite. If that’s not in the budget, or if you’re renting, you can also try covering dated countertops with a laminate sheet.

 

Mistake #5: Mirrored closet doors

This 1980s staple was a must for making spaces feel larger, but in today’s design world it often feels more tacky than tasteful. 

The Fix: Freestanding mirror

If you still need a place to check your ‘fit before you leave your room, instead opt for a freestanding or leaner mirror. 

 

Mistake #6: Crammed closets

Staying by the closet for a minute, another thing that can make your home feel dated is a crammed closet. It’s a disorganized mess that leaves you wondering how long ago the collecting started.

The Fix: Donate and Organize

In a world where we’ve forgotten how to reuse rather than replace, our closets are easily cluttered by the redundant and obsolete. It’s an issue so far spread that there are hundreds of books written about it, and we have entire stores dedicated to helping us organize our homes. 

First, go through and donate anything you haven’t worn in a year. Second, invest in smart space-saving closet organizers that fit your needs. If you’re feeling fancy, try adding some LED string or puck lights inside shelves or over collections. It might take a weekend (or two, or three), but that’s what it takes to bring your stuck-in-the-past closet back into today’s world.

 

Mistake #7: Outdated appliances

Listen, appliances can be pricey, and sometimes it’s better to stick with the devil you know. We get it. But it doesn’t change the fact that your dated microwave oven combo is tethering your home to the past.

The Fix: In with the new

Replacing a large, dated appliance with a modern version makes a huge impact on the entire space. (We’ve also seen some pretty cool things done with a bit of paint or contact paper for the DIY-inclined.) 

 

Mistake #8: Builder-grade light fixtures

When you buy a home, there are often little surprises that come up. “It came with the house” is cute when it’s unexpected lilies and crocuses in the spring… not so much when it’s the flush-mount dome lights, less affectionately nicknamed “boob lights”. 

The Fix: Swap it out

Swapping out one light fixture for another is usually an easy, beginner-level DIY. Stop in at a local lighting showroom (you’ll find better quality lights for the same price as a hardware store), choose one you love, and bing bam boom you’re back in the modern age.

 

Mistake #9: Relying solely on a single ceiling light

Ceiling lights are great – they give off ambient light for an entire room. But… if that’s your only light source then your room is likely to have dim and dingy corners that pull the design down.

The Fix: Add a lamp

Light Layering is a big deal in the design world. Whether it’s a floor lamp, table lamp, or even a wall-mounted sconce, adding another layer or two of light will do magical things for your space. 

 

Mistake #10: Exposed and cluttered cords

Nothing screams “my home was designed before the modern age” like draped or messy bundles of cords. 

The Fix: Cable management

There are so many options to help manage your messy cords. From peel-and-stick cord hooks to spiral cable wrap, to hook and loop tape on the back of a power strip, to flat plugs that fit behind furniture, there’s a solution for every problem if you just take a minute to look for it. 

 

Mistake #11: Cluttered bedside 

We’re too far into this modern age to be dealing with a messy bedside table and nowhere to charge a phone.

The Fix: Multi-purpose lamp

Gone are the days of diving under the bed, knocking things off your nightstand, looking for a phone cord. Lamps with USB charging ports come in a huge range of styles, and make it easy for you to plug in your phone at the end of the day. They’re also a great option for guest rooms – no one likes to beg a forgotten charger block off their host.

 

Mistake #12: Wood paneling

All the rage in the 70s, wood paneling has plagued home buyers for decades ever since. 

The Fix: A modern take

If you love the look and feel of natural wood in a space, you can still have it! There are plenty of modern takes on this design, including acoustic wood paneling that does double duty – giving you a natural design element and dampening the sound in the room.

 

Mistake #13: Old (or nonexistent) patio lights

If your outdoor space is poorly lit, or lit by old fixtures, it’s a great way to make it feel older and less cared for than it actually is. Lighting matters!

The Fix: String lights

It’s such a simple fix there’s no surprise at all at how popular string lights have become. Add a few connected strands to your outdoor space to make it feel cozy and comfortable. 

 

Mistake #14: Poor exterior lights

For so many, the exterior lights on their home are an afterthought. Over time, exterior lights can be sun-faded or scratched from years in the elements, and they can make your home feel unkempt. Similarly, too-dim light fixtures can make your home feel dark, dingy, and dilapidated.

The Fix: Better fixtures

Whether your exterior lights are dingy or dim (or both), replacing them is one of THE easiest ways to give your home an instant facelift. While you can hire an electrician to do this for you, this is an easy project for most homeowners when the fixtures are easily accessible.

 

Mistake #15: Weeds

It doesn’t matter how well you care for your home on the inside, if the first impression says “I haven’t been cared for in a while” then it’ll make your whole home feed dated. 

The Fix: A little elbow grease

Whether you do it yourself or hire it out, keeping your front yard looking well-kept will make your entire home feel up-to-date. 

 

Mistake #16: Obvious fake plants

We get it – taking care of plants isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. And we’re not here to throw shade at anyone that uses artificial plants to bring life to the inside (or outside) of their home. But – if you’re using fake plants that LOOK fake, then you’re more likely to remind guests of their Great Aunt Marjorie than be complemented on your decor.

The Fix: Invest in quality artificial plants

There are incredible options available for artificial plants that look lifelike. It’s worth it to focus on quality over quantity and invest in artificial plants that will look great for years to come.

 

Mistake #17: Old throw pillows

We love a good throw pillow. It brightens a space and gives a comfy touch or personality. What we don’t love is a dated or dingy throw pillow. 

The Fix: Replace or recover

The throw pillow world is your oyster – with a new pillow cover you can say goodbye to your dated pillows and hello to your new space. If your pillows are dingy and don’t come clean in the wash, we’re sorry but it’s time to say goodbye and start fresh. 

 

Mistake #18: Cluttered home office

We’re not judging you if you close and lock the door to your office when guests come over. We’ve all been there. But a cluttered office can make your home feel less than – and for many people working in a cluttered space can make it harder to concentrate.

The Fix: Add functional storage

We’re not here to tell the work-at-home artists to put their stuff away, but we do believe in the power of great storage to make a space easier to use. When the things you aren’t using are out of the way, you have more room to work and fewer distractions. And… maybe it’ll be okay for your friend to peek their head in and say hello.

 

Mistake #19: Ugly organizers

Sometimes when we start organizing, it’s tempting to buy the cheap fixes that look, well, awful. They’re a great way to get started, but if your regular-use organizers are all function, no design (dated coat rack, cheap plastic over-the-door shoe organizer or spice rack, dented fabric bins, etc.) then they might be bringing down your home’s design. 

The Fix: Organize with design in mind

There is no shortage of organizers on the market, and no matter which place in your home needs one, you’re sure to be able to find something that both works and looks good. Take your time and swap them out one by one, or buy a whole system that matches. Any way you do it – you’re sure to make your home feel fresh again.

 

Mistake #20: Popcorn ceilings

It’s no secret that popcorn ceilings are almost universally disliked. Aside from the less-than-aesthetically pleasing appearance, popcorn ceilings from before the 1980s (and some into the ‘80s) often contain asbestos, making them a health hazard if they are damaged or disturbed. 

The Fix: Remove or cover

The best way to fix popcorn ceilings is to have them professionally removed, and then refinish your ceilings. For a more economical option, some homeowners opt to cover them with faux ceiling tiles instead.  

 

Mistake #21: Old wallpaper designs

Whether it’s a tiny pattern or a dated border, old wallpaper can make you entire home feel dated – no matter how well you’ve decorated around it. 

The Fix: Modern wallpaper

For a while, wallpaper was almost a dirty word in the design world. But we’ve recovered from our overreaction and are back to loving wallpaper – in modern prints of course. 

 

Mistake #22: Weak sink and shower fixtures

It doesn’t matter how well cared for they are, if your sink and shower fixtures leave you dreaming of waterfalls and firehoses… then they aren’t doing you or your home any favors.

The Fix: Swap it out

A quality faucet or showerhead can make your entire bathroom (or kitchen) feel new again. Swapping them out is a relatively basic home improvement project that most people can tackle on their own – and it’s often renter-friendly, just put the original fixture back on before you move out.

 

Mistake #23: Chaos pantry

Your pantry doesn’t have to be social media ready at all times (especially if you have kids), but if your pantry is perpetually overstuffed and disorganized, it can make your kitchen feel dingy and dated (not to mention it makes it harder to find a midnight snack).

The Fix: Add a few organizers 

We’re not suggesting that you go out and buy a bulk set of glass containers and a label maker (although more power to you if you do), but there are plenty of simple and affordable ways to create more usable space in a pantry, like adding a small freestanding shelf or an undershelf basket. 

 

Mistake #24: Old or dingy cabinet handles

We see and use our cabinet handles all the time, so it’s easy to forget how much they impact the way a room feels. If you’re less-than-thrilled every time you need to open a cabinet door or drawer, your kitchen or bathroom hardware may be making your home feel older than it really is.

The Fix: Replace them with handles you love

Replacing the handles on your cabinets is so simple. New knobs and pulls come in a huge variety of styles and colors, so feel free to go a little wild if you want – they’re easy to swap out again later if you change your mind.

 

Mistake #25: Tired Doorknobs

Doorknobs aren’t hard to replace, but most homeowners choose not to. This often means that your home’s doorknobs end up staying in the past… and taking your home with them. You might not even realize it’s happened – just like the cabinet knobs above, we often forget to really see them after a while.

The Fix: New knobs

New doorknobs may seem like a subtle change – but they’ll make a big impact on the way your home feels. 

 

Mistake #26: Not repairing wall damage

A few small dings here and there aren’t a huge deal, but if you leave large dents and holes in your walls or trim unattended they will start to make your home feel run-down. 

The Fix: Wall repair kit

Depending on the size of your hole, you might be able to get away with just some spackle and a putty knife, but larger holes need a bit more support. Wall repair kits are cheap, and there are hundreds of helpful YouTube videos that can you walk you through the repair. It’s usually a quick fix – minus drying time.

 

Mistake #27: Torch lamps

Once widely popular, torch lamps are known to many now simply as bug graveyards. While there’s nothing inherently bad about them – they often just feel dated, and they really are hard to keep clean between the dust and the dead bugs that build up in the shade.

The Fix: Modern lamp

There really are thousands of styles to choose from – and just about any style that doesn’t collect bugs in its free time should be an improvement. A quality, modern lamp completely transforms a space in two ways – in the style of the lamp itself, and in the light it shines on your space.  

 

Mistake #28: Heavy drapes and old blinds

Unless you’re heart is set in the 70s and you love a hefty thick fringe, heavy drapes can weigh down a room, making it feel dated. Likewise, old blinds can make a room feel dingy… and nobody wants that. 

The Fix: Modern window treatments

Curtains aren’t off the table – and neither is fringe! If you love a good statement curtain moment, there are plenty of modern alternatives that will breathe fresh life into your space. Modern blinds come in a wide variety of styles, and are much easier to replace than most people think. Many blinds come in standard widths, and most stores will cut them to size for you when you purchase them to get the right fit. 

 

Mistake #29: Analog thermostat

If your thermostat looks like it was installed before Apple went big, it’s time for an upgrade. 

The Fix: Smart thermostat

A smart thermostat will do a much better job of accurately maintaining your home’s temperature, which will help you save money on your utility bills. It will also look much nicer on your wall – which is a huge plus.

 

Mistake #30: Low-quality lights

In the age of online shopping, it’s so easy to search for a fixture, sort by price, and buy the cheapest thing you see without considering the quality. What you get may look good for a moment, but low-quality fixtures always chip or break, and they’ll make your home look outdated until they’re replaced.

The Fix: Ask an expert

When it comes to home lighting, you’re way better off checking in at a local showroom than heading to a big-box chain store. Showroom owners are choosy about which brands they carry, and have years of specialized experience in lighting that they can use to help you find what you need. 

 

Some people place lighting showrooms in the same category as boutique shopping, expensive and questionable – but that couldn’t be further from the truth. When you shop at a showroom you’ll find similar styles and prices you’d find elsewhere – without the buyers’ remorse. If you’re looking to update your home, stop by our showroom and ask one of our experts. We’ll help you narrow down your options and give you insider tips – and most importantly, send you home with exactly what you’re looking for.

 

Lampshades may seem like a small detail in interior design, but they can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of a room. Whether it’s a table or floor lamp, or even a sconce or pendant, choosing the right shade is important. The shade you choose needs to do more than just complement your décor, its shape and opacity will play an important role in how effective your lamp will be at creating the right kind of light for the space. In this article, we dive into 7 popular lampshade options, and provide you with insights that will help you determine what type of shade will best suit your needs.

The Basics

Lampshades come in a wide variety of shapes, and knowing their names will help you to narrow down your search results as you shop. But before we dive into the shapes and names, it’s important to understand a couple of basic details about how shades affect your light. The shade on a lamp impacts the quantity, direction, and color of the light that emanates from the fixture. 

Quantity

Opacity matters when it comes to lampshades. Some shades are made from a solid materials like ceramic that lets little to no light shine through. Many are made from fabrics or frosted or etched glass that allow varying levels of light to filter through. Others are made of fully transparent materials like plastic or glass that allow all of the light through. Understanding your needs for the space will help you to determine what to choose. 

For example: An opaque lampshade may be the best choice for lamps at eye level to avoid glare and eye strain. A light filtering shade is an excellent choice for ambient or mood lighting to create a soft, comfortable glow. Clear shades are perfect for places that need lots of light, like a desk, workspace, or kitchen.

Direction

The shape of a shade will impact where the light can shine. The more opaque a shade is, the more important it is for you to be aware of the direction it will direct the light. A fully opaque shade will direct all light out the openings, and many have a reflective surface on the interior to maximize the amount of light leaving the shade. These shades help you to shine light where you want it, and nowhere else. Semi-opaque, light-filtering, and transparent shades will allow light to shine in all directions (although brightness levels will vary), so directionality is less important for these shades unless they’re being used as task lighting, in which case you’ll still want to be sure the opening on the shade is directed towards your work or desk space. 

Color

Swapping out a lampshade can make an old lamp feel brand new, but it can also have unintended consequences on the way the rest of the room looks. The color of the light on the bulb will take on some of the color of the shade. This can change the way colors look in your room on everything from the furniture to the paint on your walls. You can combat this a little bit by changing the color of the bulb you use if you find a shade you love, but neutrals are usually the safest route if you want to avoid unexpected color clashes. 

With these basics in mind, let’s dive into seven of the most popular lampshade shapes!

Drum Lampshades 

Drum lampshades are one of the most common and versatile options available right now. They feature a cylindrical shape with equal diameter at the top and bottom, creating a clean, minimalistic, modern look. Drum lampshades give off soft and even ambient light in all directions which makes them a great choice for many spaces. Drum shades look great on most base types – from dainty to sculptural. It’s hard to go wrong with this popular option!

Empire Lampshades

With a narrower top and a wider bottom, empire lampshades are the go-to choice for those looking to give an elegant and traditional look to their space. That said, they can also fit into a more modern aesthetic when styled correctly and paired with the right base. Empire lampshades direct light downward, making them an ideal choice if you are looking for task lighting next to a cozy chair or at your desk. 

Square and Rectangular Lampshades

Unconventional yet stylishly chic, rectangular and square lampshades are perfect for adding a contemporary twist to your décor. These lampshades can make a bold statement, so they are perfect for those looking for a focal point in their room. Their shape allows the lamp to sit closer to the wall than circular shades, which means they work especially well on narrow surfaces like console tables and smaller nightstands. 

Bell Lampshades

Like their namesake, bell lampshades feature a flared base with a narrower top. These shades provide a touch of elegance and sophistication. They are most often used in traditional or vintage-inspired interiors. Due to their shape, bell lampshades cast a soft, subdued light. This makes them a wonderful choice for a warm, inviting living room or cozy bedroom corner. 

Dome Lampshades

Dome lampshades are simple yet elegant. They are an unexpected choice that can lean vintage, modern, or futuristic, depending on how they are styled. They are best paired with a thin, dainty base. Reminiscent of the domed cap of a mushroom, these are often a popular choice in biophilic designs as well. Dome lampshades direct light downward while also spreading it gently to the sides. They offer a balanced combination of ambient and task lighting, making them a great fit for most spaces. 

Globe Lampshades 

Globe lampshades are spherical and completely encase the light source, creating a gentle and diffused illumination. Since the light is cast in all directions, globe lampshades do not cast a harsh shadow or glare but rather create a warm, ambient lighting perfect for living spaces, dining rooms, and bedrooms. 

Coolie Lampshades

These lampshades have a distinct slanted shape that directs light downward, making them great for task lighting, such as desk lamps. While the shape of this shade is similar to the Empire shade, Coolie shades have a much larger difference between the top and bottom diameters, giving them a more distinctive slant. The unique shape of this shade fits especially well into retro, eclectic, and industrial-inspired spaces, and they make for an interesting centerpiece wherever they are placed.  

————-

Selecting the right lampshade for your space can be as simple as choosing the one that you like the best on the shelf, but if you want to truly do your lamp (and your room) justice, take an extra minute and consider the opacity, color, and shape of your shade, and how it will impact the way the light shines in your space. With just a little extra bit of understanding, you can create a well-lit and visually appealing environment that reflects your personality and enhances the atmosphere of your home. So, go ahead and shed light on your style with the perfect lampshade!

You don’t have to do it alone! For help finding the perfect shade, stop by our showroom and let the experts at Illuminate Lighting help you find exactly what you need, without the hassle. 

 

The only constant in life is change, and as we near the mid 2020s, it’s quite interesting to see the trends that have come and gone in the past 4 years. Subway tile? Bye! Shiplap? See ya! Signs with words? Live, Love, No Thanks!

Interior design technology and trends move at a rapid pace these days, and with influencers and celebrities lending their talents and tastes to those of established interior designers, we’re seeing a wider range of design styles in homes – and that’s ideal, right? Just like your fashion sense, interior design is personal… and there’s nothing as boring as a bunch of cookie cutter houses that look exactly the same, inside and out. 

Here are a few of our favorite interior design styles to covet (and copy!) in 2024. 

 

 

Modern minimalism

Homeowners and renters are not yet ready to let the modern minimalist trend go, and for good reason. It’s comfortable without being cluttered, and bright without being sterile. Wood tones and natural textures live in harmony with matte blacks and crisp white walls, and greenery abounds.

Pendant lights with woven, ceramic, or paper shades provide a warm glow AND a dose of casual, inviting style. And while you may not find many knick-knacks filling the corners of modern minimalist homes, a lush plant in a beautiful pot is always welcome.

 

 

 

Biophilic

Homes built and decorated with biophilic design in mind foster a connection between humans and nature, by incorporating natural textures, shapes, patterns, and light. Many studies have suggested that humans are healthier, happier, and more productive when surrounded by nature – so it’s no surprise why biophilic design is growing in popularity. 

Whether it’s a Brooklyn flat or a Montana ranch, you’ll find tons of greenery in every part of the biophilic home (shower plants, anyone?), large windows to let in the natural light and air, and plenty of natural materials like rattan, wood, and linen. One key of biophilic design? It should be holistic– so one room with plants isn’t going to cut it. Each room should have its share of nature, be it a rattan light shade and Boston fern on a bedside table, or a wall of plants and a giant skylight in the kitchen. 

Have a black thumb? No worries – biophilic design is about bringing nature to all of your senses, so lean in to what works best for you. Whether it’s a focus on using natural materials, finding ways to maximize natural light, or adding a small fountain to recreate the sound of a bubbling brook, there are lots of ways to connect to the natural world that don’t involve daily watering. 

 

 

 

Maximalism

On the other end of the spectrum from minimalist design is the fun, festive, interior design style of maximalism! Made popular by interior designers like Justina Blakeney, maximalism isn’t afraid to mix colors, patterns, textures and styles into one convivial home that brings joy and doesn’t take itself too seriously. To ensure things look magical but not messy – choose a common thread to weave throughout (like in the room above, mustard yellow!)

Your lighting options in a maximalist home are endless, with pendants, sconces, and lamps in every hue and texture you can dream up. Go for a gold dining pendant in the shape of an agave, or a glittery oversized capiz chandelier in the hall. Maximalism says “why not?!” to all things bold and beautiful. 

 

 

 

Brutalism

Vogue calls brutalism “a movement about honesty” and we can see why – in a brutalist home, there’s nothing to hide! Some might find brutalist interior design and architecture to be intimidating or, as the name says, brutal. But you’d be amazed how inviting and warm it can be! Brutalist homes embrace much of what makes minimalism shine, while utilizing industrial materials like concrete, and embracing hard lines and corners. In a brutalist home, furniture and decor are sparse, simple, and rugged – but a quick Google search shows how truly beautiful brutalism can be.

When it comes to lighting, ceramic, metal, and concrete fixtures reign supreme. Brutalist style chandeliers, sconces, and table lamps  are as impressive as they are functional, and when walls and floors serve as a blank slate, lighting has an opportunity to truly shine.  

——————————-

Curious about maximalism or biophilic design? Consider choosing lighting fixtures that allow you to sample the feel of these styles in your home without a complete overhaul. An airy woven reed pendant light or a bold metallic chandelier are minor (easily reversible!) additions that can make a big impact on a home.

No matter your personal tastes, it’s always exciting and fun to watch where interior design is headed, and to bring in elements of any (or all) that make your home feel more you.  Stop by a showroom today to check out lighting fixtures in every style you can imagine – and let a lighting expert help you find the perfect on-trend light for your home!

 

If you’re building, renovating, or just ready for a change in lighting, there’s nothing worse than spending hours researching and choosing a light fixture, only to get it home and find out that a measurement got missed somewhere along the way and it won’t work the way you wanted.

Before you buy, read and bookmark this article for quick reference. When you’re armed with the best information, you’ll make the best choices. 

And remember, the very best way to get your information right from the get-go is to ask a lighting expert – so don’t skip the trip to your local lighting showroom! They’ll be able to help you avoid any common mistakes and help you get what you want right from the start.

Understanding Light Output

You’ll want to get familiar with a couple of vocab words before jumping in. 

• Watts: The amount of energy or electricity a bulb uses. Has nothing to do with brightness.
• Foot Candles: The amount of perceivable light from a fixture at one foot away.
• Lumens: The amount of overall light given off by a light source. Has nothing to do with power consumption.

How These Terms Relate To Each Other

Comparing a fixture or bulb’s wattage and lumens will show its efficiency. A bulb with low wattage and high lumens uses less power to generate more light, meaning it will cost less to light your home. 

Not all rooms are created equal – bedrooms generally need less light than a kitchen. To determine how many lumens you need, multiply the square footage of the space by the foot candle recommendation. For example, a typical 300 sqft bedroom will need around 3000-6000 lumens in total. [Sqft of room x min and max foot candles = Total min and max lumens needed]

This total includes all types of light in the room, from ceiling fixtures to lamps to sunlight. For best results, you never want to have all of the light in a room come from a single source. A great lighting plan considers the times of day the room will be used, accent lighting like reading lamps, and activities that happen in the room. If your room can transition perfectly from busy daytime work to a relaxed evening at home, then you’ve nailed it.   

 

Universal Standard Measurements

While most fixtures have their own set of standard measurements for placement and sizing, there are a handful of things that are universal. For brevity’s sake, we’ve put those things here rather than repeating them for each fixture. 

• Height and Head Clearance: Keep at least 7’ of clearance between the bottom of the fixture and the floor. If there is any chance that a hanging fixture could be in the way, especially in places like hallways and stairs, raise the fixture a bit more to avoid accidents. Vaulted or high ceilings may need more clearance between the fixture and the floor to look balanced. Lower fixtures will make a room feel more intimate, while higher fixtures are less noticeable (which is sometimes the goal).
• Door Clearance: If you’re installing a fixture near a door, keep 6” of clearance between the bottom of the fixture and the top of the door.
• Weight Limit: Modern standard ceiling light boxes are manufactured to hold up to 50 pounds when installed correctly. It’s important to check the weight of your fixture and the structure of your ceiling before installing any ceiling fan or a fixture over 35 pounds. Installing the extra support doesn’t usually cost much – and it’s way cheaper than paying for damages if an improperly supported fixture falls.
• Dining Table: The max width of a light fixture over a dining table should be around 1/2-3/4 the width of the table. The bottom of the fixture should be just above your seated eye level so that it doesn’t obstruct the view – usually about 30-36” from the table surface. Always center the fixture over the table, not in the center of the room. [table width x ½ and ¾ = min and max fixture width]
• Great Rooms and Multi-Purpose Rooms: You’ll want to consider all angles when choosing fixtures for rooms with multiple uses. For example, many great rooms have a dining room between the kitchen and living room. You’ll still want to follow standard dining fixture recommendations to start – but you’ll also need to hang your fixture high enough to avoid glare and an obstructed view while standing and using the rest of the space.

Standard Measurements by Fixture

Standard measurements will work well in almost every home, but there’s always room to bend the rules a little for a fixture you love or in a unique space. For rooms or areas not mentioned, refer to the general standards and/or rooms with similar uses.

FLUSH AND SEMI-FLUSH LIGHTS

• General Sizing: Add the length and width of the room in feet together, then record that number in inches to determine the best width for a ceiling fixture. For example, a 10’x20’ living room can accommodate a 30” wide ceiling fixture. (This formula works well for most ceiling-mounted lights, not including fixtures like ceiling fans and recessed lights.) [room length in feet + room width in feet = optimal ambient fixture width in inches (no conversion, just change the units)]
• General Placement: Flush and semi-flush lights are generally installed in the center of a room, or over the center of a specific-use area like a dining table. Flush mounts work best in rooms with standard ceiling heights at 8’, and may feel dim if installed on a tall ceiling. Semi-flush lights hang down from the ceiling, and work great in rooms with 9-10’ ceilings. 
• Bathroom: It’s best to maintain 8’ between the top of the bathtub and the bottom of a fixture. Flush mounts are a great choice for ambient lighting in a bathroom, but they don’t work well as the only light in a bathroom, as they can create shadows on the face. For best use in the bathroom, combine your ceiling fixture with a pendant or sconce near the mirror.

PENDANTS 

• General Sizing: For single pendants, the same room length in feet + room width in feet = fixture width in inches formula from above works well. For grouped pendants, sizing depends largely on personal preference and the available space for installation. 
• General Spacing: When hanging multiple pendants, the minimum spacing between them should be about 18”. For larger pendants, the recommended minimum spacing is equal to the diameter of the pendants. For example, 20” wide pendants should be hung at a minimum of 20” apart.
• Kitchen Island: There are many ways to hang pendants over an island, and there isn’t one hard-and-fast set of rules. Here are a few guidelines to consider:
  • For islands up to 6’ wide, the max is usually two pendants, but you can sometimes get away with three small pendants if you prefer that look. For islands over 6’ wide, many homeowners choose to use three or more pendants to maximize light coverage across the countertop.
  • To determine how far away from the edge of the island pendants should be, divide the diameter of the pendant in half. For example, the side of 18” pendants should be a minimum of  9” away from the edge of the island. [pendant width / 2 = recommended distance from pendant to edge of island]
  • A large, single pendant should not exceed 2/3 of the island’s width. For example, the widest you’d want to go on a pendant over a 6’ island is about 48”. [total island width x ⅔ = max pendant width]
• Sinks and Counters: The standard distance from the counter for a pendant is 30-40” but 36” and above is best. When using pendants for task lighting, choose a fixture that allows the light to shine in the right place – a pendant with a solid bottom won’t light a counter very well.
• Bedroom: As a reading light above a bedside table, aim for the lighted portion of the pendant to be about 55-60” above the floor or 30-36” above the mattress. 

CHANDELIERS

• General Sizing: To determine the ideal diameter, add the length and width of your room together in inches. For example, a 15×20 room would need a chandelier approximately 35” in diameter (15+20=35). To determine the ideal height of the fixture, plan on around 2-3” of height for each foot of ceiling height. For example, in a home with 8’ ceilings, a chandelier should be about 16-24” tall (8×2=16, 8×3=24). A two-story foyer in that home can easily support a chandelier that’s 32-48” tall (16×2=32, 16×3=48). [room length in feet + room width in feet = optimal chandelier width in inches (no conversion, just change the units)], [ceiling height in feet x 2 and 3 = min and max chandelier height]
• General Placement: Chandeliers are a bold design choice intended to stand out and make a statement. They’re almost always placed in the center of a room, or centered over a part of a room with a specific use, like a dining table or a clawfoot bathtub.
• Dining Table: In a room with 8’ ceilings, the standard height is about 30-36” above the table, then add 3” for every foot over 8’ in ceiling height. Always center the chandelier over the table, not in the center of the room.
• Two-story foyer: Keep the bottom of the chandelier above the height of the first floor.

SCONCES

• General Sizing: When it comes to sizing and scale, there isn’t a great universal formula here – it’s left largely up to personal preference and a good eye. A good rule of thumb for sconces is this: The closer you’ll be standing to look at whatever the sconce is lighting, the smaller the sconce should be. 
• General Placement: Sconces are usually placed around eye level, around 60-72” from the floor. In rooms with higher ceilings, 66-72” will feel more balanced. Take into consideration the style of the fixture – a sconce with a bare bulb will feel more comfortable a bit above eye level, whereas a sconce with a shade will feel more comfortable if the shade is at eye level to avoid catching the glare of the bulb from under or above the shade.
• Dining Room: Because people will be seated for the majority of the time, sconces should be hung slightly lower in the dining room – closer to 60” from the floor.
• Bathroom: Sconces work best placed on either side of the mirror at eye level, around 4-12” away from the edges depending on the look you’re after and where the electrical boxes can be installed. Sconces can also be centered above the mirror at just above eye level, usually between 60-70” off the floor. 
• Bedroom: As a reading light above a bedside table, aim for about 55-60” above the floor or 30-36” above the mattress. 
• Porch, Patio, Doors: When choosing a sconce to go near an exterior door, look for one that is 1/4 – 1/3 of the height of the door. For example, the most common standard door height is 80”. To determine the best sconce size, 80” ÷ 4 = 20” and 80” ÷ 3 = 26.6’ tell us to look for a sconce that is around 20-26” tall. Generally speaking, outdoor sconces should be positioned at around 66-72” above the ground at the center of the light. You can fudge the high end a little for extra tall spaces, but going above 72” isn’t usually recommended. [height of exterior door x ¼ and ⅓ = min and max of sconce]
• Garage: The best practice is to put a sconce on either side of every garage door, with the bottom of the fixture around 1’ from the top of the garage door. With this configuration, opt for fixtures that are 1/4 – 1/3 of the height of the door. For example, an 8’ garage door will look best with sconces that are 24”-32” (96” ÷ 4 = 24” and 96” ÷ 3 = 32”). When hanging lights centered over the garage doors instead, be sure that the fixtures are large enough to light the full width of the driveway. [height of garage door x ¼ and ⅓ = min and max of sconce]

RECESSED LIGHTS

• General Sizing: Standard recessed lighting is typically 4-6” wide. 6” lights are the most common and are most often used for general lighting. 4” and 5” lights are often used for task or accent lighting, such as providing extra light over a kitchen counter. 
• General Placement for Ambient Lighting: The number of lights you’ll need will vary greatly depending on the size and brightness of the lights, the size of the room, and the height of the ceiling. The formulas below will get you a good rough estimate, but it’s usually a good idea to stop in at a lighting showroom and check in with an expert when planning a recessed light layout. There are a lot of things to consider, and recessed lighting is difficult to move after the fact if you run into an issue. 
  • Amount – A good place to start is to multiply the room’s square footage by the recommended foot candles to calculate the total lumens you’ll need. Then, divide the total lumens by the lumen output of the recessed lights you want to use. For example, for a 300 sqft bedroom, requiring 10-20 foot candles, using 370-lumen lights, you’ll want to stick to around 8-16 lights (300 x 10 ÷ 370 = 8.1) and (300 x 20 ÷ 370 = 16.2). [room sqft x min and max foot candles = total lumens min and max], [total lumens min and max / one light’s lumen output = min and max number of lights needed]
  • Spacing – It’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation, but a good rule of thumb for planning is to divide the ceiling height in half to determine how far apart the lights should be. Divide that number in half again to determine how far away from the wall the lights should be. For example, in a room with 8’ ceilings, space your lights about 4’ apart and 2’ from the wall. [ceiling height / 2 = distance between lights, distance between lights / 2 = distance from wall]
  • Zoning – If you have a room that serves multiple purposes (like a great room or a living room with a home office nook), measure and map out each area separately when planning your overall layout.
  • Existing fixtures – It’s very common for a room to have a grid of recessed lights in addition to a statement fixture like a chandelier or a ceiling fan. You’ll want to plan around the fixture location and take its light into account.
  • Furniture – A bright recessed light directly above a couch can feel uncomfortable and create shadows. In these situations, try to place lights around the perimeter and in the middle of the room to help with glare.
  • Dimmer switch – Sometimes a grid of overhead recessed lights can feel a little harsh. We always recommend installing a dimmer switch for your lights so that you can always feel comfortable in your space.
• General Placement for Task or Accent Lighting: Recessed lights are also used for supplemental lighting in places where that need a bit more light, like over a kitchen counter, a piano, a reading nook, etc. Place these accent lights based on where you need the light, but choose carefully – you want your task lighting to shine on your task rather than on your head or in your eyes. Some recessed lights can be angled, which makes getting the light in just the right spot a bit easier.

CEILING FANS

• General Sizing: Ceiling fan sizes are measured by the diameter of the blades, or the blade span. The size fan you need is determined by the size of the space it needs to cool. An undersized fan will feel weak and underwhelming, but a fan that’s too large can turn a room into a wind tunnel. Size recommendations can vary a little depending on the manufacturer, but this chart will give you a general idea of what size fan you’ll need:

• General Placement: For 8’ ceilings and lower, you’ll need a flush mount or hugger fan that attaches directly to the ceiling to keep the required 7’ minimum clearance to the floor. You also need at least 8” of clearance between the blades and the ceiling for optimal airflow. For ceilings over 8’, look for a ceiling fan with a downrod, which will drop the fan away from the ceiling. Aim to have your ceiling fan around 8-9’ above the floor for the best airflow.
• Airflow Efficiency and CFM: Cubic Feet per Minute refers to the amount of air moved per cubic foot that a ceiling fan can move in one minute at its highest setting. The higher the CFM, the more air a fan moves. To determine the efficiency of a fan, divide a fan’s CFM by the Watts. An efficiency score of 75 is the minimum requirement to label a fan as energy efficient. [CFM / Watts = Airflow Efficiency]

TABLE LAMPS

• General Sizing: Measure the height of the furniture the lamp will be on. Aim for a lamp that’s around ⅔ the height of the furniture, and avoid going above 1.5 times the height. (You may want to go smaller for lamps placed on taller furniture to avoid glare.) The widest part of the lamp and shade should be smaller than the width of the furniture. [best standard lamp height = table height x ⅔]
• General Placement: Best practice with table lamps states that the lamp should be at about eye level when you’re near it. For lamps near couches and chairs, that’s typically around 58-64”. Whether you spend most of your time sitting or standing in a room, the bottom of the shade should be around eye level to avoid accidental glare above or below the shade.

———————-

Don’t get stuck in the muck – if you’re planning a lighting project, save the stress and stop by our showroom. All we do is lighting – and we do it right. You’ll get free expert advice and access to thousands of fixtures – and customer service that you just can’t beat at a big-box store or shopping online. Skip the headache, and stop on by. We’ll see you soon!