With all the talk of living green and preserving natural resources, lighting manufactures are offering consumer’s option when selecting light bulbs for their homes.  Selecting energy efficient lighting goes beyond cutting your electric bill; it is also paying a huge favor to our natural resources and the environment. 

When you visit many home improvement stores, there are countless promotions and campaigns on display encouraging consumers to consider switching to energy efficient light bulbs and fixtures.  Let’s explore the world of energy wise lighting and the advantages of this type of lighting.

One of the biggest advantages to energy wise lighting is the cost saving to the consumer.  Switching from regular light bulbs to fluorescent light bulbs can save $30 in energy costs over the life the bulb. Fluorescent light bulbs provide the same amount of light as incandescent light bulbs but last ten times longer.  Compact fluorescent light bulbs generate over 65% less heat which is safer than high heat incandescent light bulbs.

 If you are unsure about fluorescent light bulbs, consider replacing some of the light bulbs in your home on a trial basis.  Replace light bulbs in high traffic that use lighting for extended periods of time areas such as family rooms, kitchens, dining rooms and porch lights.  Using this method will allow you to determine if switching to fluorescent light bulbs will lower your home electric bill.

When purchasing fluorescent light bulbs , remember that these bulbs use about a fourth of the wattage required by regular light bulbs, so you would replace an incandescent 60 watt light bulb with a 15 watt fluorescent light bulb for the same amount of light.  You may also notice that fluorescent light bulbs cost a little more than incandescent light bulbs, however, fluorescent light bulbs can last 10-20 times longer than regular light bulbs.  There is also a larger variety of fluorescent light bulbs to select, ranging from warm white tones to white tones similar to day light.

Making the decision to switch to energy efficient light bulbs if a “win” for any homeowner looking to save money or conserve natural resources.  When your current regular light bulbs need to be replaced, consider fluorescent lighting.

Swing Arm Lamps are wall mounted lamps often used in living rooms and bedrooms. These lamps are available in an assortment of styles catering to just about any style of home décor. These lamps are great options for those that desire a versatile, space saving and stylish lamp.

Versatility
A swing arm lamp is very versatile for a number of reasons. One of the biggest factors is the design of the lamp. This wall mounted lamp can be placed in a number of positions. How the lamp is angled or placed depends on the type of lighting desired. For example, when against the wall in its normal position, this fixture provides general lighting. However, when the lamp is pulled out to light a specific area, it then provides task lighting. There are not many lamps or light fixtures that offer this type of versatility.
Space Saver
Any time an item can be mounted on the wall, there is space saved. With the swing lamp mounted to the wall, space on bedside or end tables is left open for other decorative pieces. These lamps also do not require any floor space. Not only does this save space in your room, but is also makes for several placement options.
Style
Whether decorating a home office, living room or bedroom, there are several swing arm lamp styles available for purchase. The industrial look of this swing arm lamp can enhance several styles of décor ranging from vintage to contemporary. These lamps can also be positioned to provide decorative lighting or accent lighting which is definitely an enhancement.

Swing arm lamps offer several advantages to home decorators. These lamps range in price from very inexpensive to somewhat expensive. Versatility, style and space are just a few of the reasons swing are lamps are welcome in many homes today.

 

Image courtesy of Circalighting.com

Pendant light fixtures are a great source of lighting for a number of rooms in the home. There are drum pendant light fixtures ideal for lighting a kitchen or dining area or more complex fixtures great for the foyer or living area. This unique pendant light by Omer Arbel is a stylish free hanging light fixture perfect for creating drama in your living room. If you want the effect of a dramatic chandlier, but you are not fond of the design of a traditional chandelier, consider a free hanging pendant fixture.

 

Image soure: homedecorarcade.com

If your budget for lighting for your daughter’s bedroom is small, don’t worry. There are tons of lamps in several styles, sizes and colors that agree with any budget. Check out these lamps perfect for a girls bedroom and all under $30!
1. Desk Lamp with Pink Shade

This simple pink lamp is works great for functional lighting in a girls bedroom.  This lamp can be placed on top of a desk or bedside table.

 Girls Table or Desk Lamp: $27.80

2.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Here is another desk or bedside lamp in purple. The pleated shade adds a feminie touch perfect for a girl’s bedroom.
Girls Table or Desk Lamp: $25.00

3. This stylish cube lamp is perfect for a teenagers bedroom. Ideal placement would be on a desk for homework or reading or bedside table.
Hot Pink PRINCESS Spinning Cube Lamp: $22.99

The foyer of the home is usually the entrance used by guests.  Creating a welcoming and stylish foyer is not a difficult task.  Along with various home accents and furniture, foyer lighting can greatly impact the overall tone of your space. 

Most sizable foyers are illuminated with multiple layers of light.  If a home has a sizeable foyer, there are likely several windows at the entrance of the home.  One popular light fixture used in sizable foyers is the chandelier.  There are large elaborate chandeliers and modern chandeliers to accommodate several styles of home décor.  Another light fixture commonly found in foyers is the semi flush fixture.

Things to Consider When Shopping for Foyer Light Fixture

There are two important factors to consider when shopping for a foyer light fixture.  When shopping for your light fixture, consider the size of your space and the amount of natural light in your space.

Correct Size

Placing a large chandelier in small foyer will not be very appealing.  Although the chandelier itself is a beautiful fixture, placing it in a space far too small will take away from the beauty of the fixture. The first step in shopping for light fixtures, gather the measurements of your foyer.  Carefully compare the diameter of your light fixture and the dimensions of your foyer. 

Amount of Light

If the foyer of your home has a nice amount of natural light from windows, your lighting design plan will not require as much lighting from light fixtures.  Not all light fixtures offer the same amount of light.  When selecting a light fixture, consider the amount of natural light in your foyer.  This will help avoid too much or insufficient lighting in your foyer.

When creating a lighting plan for a living room it is critical to consider the various activities that will occur in the space.  More often, the living room of a home is used to entertain guest, watch movies, and menial tasks such as reading.  Considering the intended use of the living room, most living rooms require several types of lighting in the overall living room lighting plan.  Let’s review common types of lighting used in living rooms:

General Lighting

Of all of the types of lighting, general lighting is the one type of lighting that is almost a requirement in living room lighting design.  General lighting illuminates the room for day to day activities such as entertaining guests or enjoying a family movie.  Commonly, general lighting is provided by a ceiling light fixtures or lamps.

Task Lighting

Task lighting is used to provide light in a specific space or area within a room.  This form is used to complete tasks that require attention to detail such as reading, completing homework or working on various crafts.  While this form of lighting provides efficient lighting for a specified area, it is usually not sufficient lighting for an entire room.

Accent Lighting

If there is a desire to place attention on decorative wall art, a mirror, or other plant, accent lighting is included in the lighting design.  Accent lighting either shines from above or below a specified area placing an emphasis on a particular object.  A light fixture often used to accent various pieces of home décor is recessed light fixture.

When creating a lighting plan for your living room, carefully access your space and the intended use.  Next, take a look at the many layers of light used in residential lighting plan and determine which best suit your needs.  We hope we have provided a clear illustration on how various types of lighting are incorporated into living room lighting planning.

Some houses can be dark and dingy. If your house is like this, then this can have an adverse effect on your mood and emotions. Why keep yourself in the dark when you can light up your home in many ways? Yes. You don’t have to stick boring old light bulbs and florescent lamps. Here are 5 unique ideas to light up your home.

 

 

Candle sconces. These are brackets that come in different shapes and designs and are used to hold candles. They can be placed on mirrors, stuck up the wall or on picture frames. Candle sconces can give your home a warm and romantic air. However if you think that candles are too unsafe then you can opt for wall sconces. Instead of candles, they utilize bulbs that run on electricity. Wall sconces come in different designs and colors. To make your room more inviting, use yellow light bulbs.

Lamp posts. If you have a huge front or back yard then you’ll need to light it up with lamp posts. This can illuminate the outside of your home and make it a less likely target for thieves. Plus it would be safer for you and your family as you’ll have an easier time getting around. Lamp posts come in many designs, colors and height.
Deck lights. If you live in a huge house with a big deck then having deck lights can work to your advantage. There are many sizes and shapes when it comes to deck lights. They can also come in different colors. And since they often have a low voltage, they don’t generate as much in terms of electricity compared to regular lights. Aside from illuminating your house at night they provide a nice ambiance for sitting outside during clear nights.
Lanterns. Aside from deck lights, putting lanterns in your back yard is another nice way to light up your home. Lanterns often come in different geometric patterns. They can even be in the shape of different animals such as bird or butterflies. Lanterns can be used to light up your home both indoors and outdoors.
Playing around with the lighting is one of the easiest ways to add pizzaz to your home. So let your creative side lose and light up your home in these 4 unique ways.

Our guest author of the day is Chris Zuckerman. 
Chris Zuckerman is the President at his b deck and steel deck fabrication facility located in Atlanta GA. He loves to play golf and travel around the world with his wife and 3 kids.

Basement Lighting Design 101

Image courtesy of basementlighting.org

Basements are no longer used solely for storage.  Basements are used for a variety of reasons these days from entertaining friends, to storage, living space and at times even  as a workshop.  It is important as with any living space to properly plan lighting design for your basement.

Recessed Lighting and track lighting are both perfect for basement lighting. Basements are usually used to entertain or for recreation. Both recessed lighting and track lighting easily enhacnce the décor of a space. While these type of fixtures can upgrade a space instantly, they are very inexpensive in comparison to other forms of lighting.
When designing lighting for your basement, make sure the basic components are addressed. For instance, when mapping out the placement of light switches, make sure a light switch is placed at the top of the stairs or at the entry of the basement. It can be very challenging and at times to enter a basement without proper lighting. The power switch for lighting should be easily accessible. Also, ensure there is adequate power for the lighting design. Poor planning in this area can lead to power failures, faulty wiring or worse, a fire. Finally as with lighting design for any room, consider the use of the room. If a portion of the basement will be used for a study or office, make sure adequate lighting is provided for reading or similar tasks.
Your basement lighting plan is just a second away. Proper planning and careful execution can yield wonderful results. The tips we have shared are sure to get your basement lighting plan off to a great start!

Creating a custom light fixture for your home is an excellent option for homeowners looking to enhance their home’s decor. Not only are these light fixtures unique and one of a kind, they also allow individuals to add a touch of their personality to their home!

MopTopMaven created this beautiful Structural Pendant Lamp for her home. How beautiful! Think of the possibilities!

She even posts the following tutorial to help you get started:

DIY Structural Pendant Lamp (Adapted from Design*Sponge)
You will need:
40 Sheets of Felt (Although about 2 1/2 yards from a craft/fabric store should suffice, and will also be much cheaper)
Glue Gun
Glue Sticks

Melodi Lamp from Ikea (Mine was $12.99, although they had a BIG Melodi Lamp on sale for $4.99)
Scissors
Patience

Use a fabric pen/pencil to draw a circle about 1-2inches in diameter on a piece of felt.

Cut out the circle, and use it as a template to cut HUNDREDS of circles out – Don’t worry if your pieces aren’t all the same size.

Take a circle & fold it in half. With your hot glue gun, place a line of glue down the center of the crease [the back of the crease, not the front]

Overlap areas so that you can fill in the spaces, and create more of a “fluffy” appearance. That’s all there is to it, you can put them in all in one direction like I did, or lay them out randomly like Kate from Design Sponge.

Check out MopTopMaven to view more DIY projects!

LED Under Cabinet Lights – Contractor Kit

When shopping for a light fixture for the kitchen, many are not considering the design of their homes decor. Perhaps the buyer may consider matching the color, but that is about as far as many will reach.

We found the following exert from Contemporary Interior Designs very helpful. Check it out:
Modern lighting is generally characterized by clean, simple; however, it may also contain elements of elaborate scrollwork. Contemporary kitchen lighting fixtures may be constructed from iron, bronze, or brass. Generally, modern kitchen lighting does not have colored class in its elements. Because it is used primarily to enhance the brightness of a room, kitchen fixtures that have glass elements tend to be luminescent in their shades’ coverings. The homeowner’s personal tastes and the overall décor of the room will determine the appropriate type of lighting fixtures for a kitchen.

Very interesting right?
If you would like to read more, visit Contemporary Interior Designs for a wealth of information concerning contemporary style home decor.