Styles & Trends

Lighting Design to Match Your Home: Modern, Traditional, and Transitional Lighting Styles

by admin · Jan 6, 2021

When our clients furnish a new home or upgrade their lighting, one of their main concerns is matching light fixtures to their overall design. After all, what kind of lighting look good with shabby-chic or modern farmhouse décor? It’s a valid question!

Just like fashion or interior design, lighting fixtures can be divided into general styles based on common qualities and trends. It’s worth looking into—knowing what general style you’re looking for can help narrow your search to only the fixtures that fit you best. Read on to learn more about the three main lighting categories: Modern, Traditional, and Transitional.

Modern

In architecture, it might look something like that. As for lighting, the modern style was born in the early 20th century and hit peak popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. Modern designs are often minimalistic with neutral tones. Lighting fixtures, like the one below, incorporate straight, clean lines with a seamless flow.

Popular materials are bubble glass and natural materials, such as wood and metal. LED integrated fixtures are also the epitome of “modern”. For further examples, browse the Stix Collection from Sonneman – A Way Of Light. Similar fixtures showcase minimally scaled LED linear pendants and wall bars in a variety of lengths, finishes, and lighting configurations.

Traditional

Traditional style lighting and design has staying power! Like the timeless architecture above, these light fixtures last a long time and never go out of style. Traditional design is typically more formal and ornate. These refined fixtures, like the one below, feature intricate details and thoughtful design. Often inspired by classic architecture, traditional lighting fixtures add sophistication, warmth and richness to a space.

Bronze, brass and gold are commonly used materials within traditional decor. Traditional style usually matches from room to room, blending consistently throughout the home. For example, this Lorainne collection from Savoy House features oxidized black metal rods, along with arms and lamp posts topped with soft white fabric shades. It’s airy yet eye-catching, polished yet playful.

Transitional

Find yourself drawn to styles a bit more unique, yet not quite as minimal as modern architecture? Transitional style is extremely versatile and widespread, making it hard to define but easy to love. In essence, it’s the midway point between traditional and modern lighting styles. Transitional pieces are less ornate than their traditional counterparts, but not as streamlined and out of the box as modern fixtures. They combine the best of both worlds for a clean, comfortable, contemporary look.

Like in the fixture above, neutral colors are popular here, along with fabric and wood. Brushed brass and black are common finish colors, like the warm brass in the Kearney Collection by Savoy House. These fixtures have gently rounded brass rectangles surrounding a vintage black candelabra. The four lights have clear glass covers and a warm color temperature. The look is clean and sophisticated, making it the perfect piece for a transitional home.

Feeling more equipped to find your perfect fixture? Obviously, there are plenty of variations on these three main groups of design, such as: Modern Farmhouse, French Country, Mid-Century Modern, and Contemporary. If you’re interested in learning more about those styles, or anything listed above, give us a call! Illuminations is here to make home lighting easy.

QUICK TIPS FOR BUILDING A COZY BOOK NOOK

by admin · Oct 20, 2020

The inglenook is a cute name with a charming history. It literally means “chimney corner” and began as a wooden seat built into the space on either side of the wide fireplaces common in 17th-century English houses and cottages.

Over time, the concept evolved to it’s own room near a fireplace room right off the kitchen and was meant to be a cozy place to get warm. It was a little room inside of a bigger room.

The concept of an inglenook has been reinvented recently and is used more generally when talking about how to convert a simple space with seemingly no defined use, to a creative nook that you can’t wait to be in! The modern concept of the nook nook is something to consider for an odd space without a definite purpose.

Some rooms have an obvious furniture layout that will fit them. For instance, the sofa will only fit the room going one particular direction to where it is facing the TV area. Some rooms have several layouts and there’s not just one right way of laying them out. Regardless of your room setting, finding a place to create your own little inglenook to curly up and read may be easier than you think. A cozy book nook can be created along a blank wall, in a corner full of windows, or even on the backside of a sofa! Here are some helpful hints to create a modern day inglenook that can still “warm” you when sit and stay awhile.

Book Storage: A book nook includes books so have a fun way of storing them in this little area. A cute big basket, simple wall shelves, or a storage ottoman can all make for a fun way to define your space.

Something to Sit On: It may be time to get that cute accent chair you’ve always wanted. For the grown-ups, a chair with an ottoman or something to put your feet up on will do the job. For kids, fun-print floor pillows or cushions will call their name.

Define the Space: Set your space apart from the rest of the room, even if it’s still part or your room—remember, a “little room inside of a bigger room.” A small rug will do the job of defining this space.

Light: Poor lighting is hard on the eyes and can ruin the appeal of the most beautifully crafted reading nook. Where possible, use natural light is great. Its good for the soul easy on the eyes and is the greenest form of light available.

When natural light is not an option, supplement with a lamp to bring in some color, an element of style and some nice task light to your area. Floor lamps are by far the most convenient way to bring lovely lighting to your gorgeous new reading nook.

Wall sconces give an elegant look to any space. While more difficult to mount, these lights turn into permanent fixtures and will are offer a reliable beam for reading any time of day. Mounting two on opposite ends of the nook, cover both sides while offering a “dim zone” in the middle if you do not want bright light. Adding a dimmer switch is a great idea that allows you to adjust the brightness to the perfect level no matter the task.

No Phone, No Problem! Your inglenook is calling you to come and read a book. Get cozy, grab a throw blanket and leave your phone behind.

Comfort can be found by young and old in the depths of a wonderful book. Creating a “book inglenook” that calls you to come and stay awhile is simple and rewarding.

6 Simple Hacks for Perfect Kitchen Pendants

by admin · Sep 29, 2020

The kitchen is not only one of the most functional rooms in the home, but it’s also a central place to express your style! Kitchen lighting should combine excellent functionality with equal flair, and there’s no better way to do that than with pendant lighting. Here’s an in-depth guide of 6 vital principles to help you choose and hang the perfect pendant light in your kitchen.

1. Quantity

Odd numbers make for natural design groupings, so aim for odd groupings of lights when you hang pendants. Consider each kitchen area separately, creating one group over the kitchen island, another over the sink, and a new one in other unique areas of your kitchen. You’re the boss here—so break the rule here if you think two lights are better than three.

2. Scale

Hang something too big, and it will encroach on needed space. Hang a fixture that’s too small, and it won’t provide enough functional light or stylistic pizzazz. The edge of a pendant fixture should hang 6” from the outside edge of the island, with appropriate space between pendants.

Tall ceilings can handle a larger pendant, so if you’ve got vaulted ceilings, consider choosing a fixture with extra height and bulk to capitalize on the grandeur of your ceiling. If you’re debating between several good options, bigger is better!

3. Light Output

Some finishes, like chrome or polished nickel, are reflective and seem to ‘disappear’ when the lights come on. Other finishes are bold, providing high contrast against kitchen cabinetry. Most fixtures come in multiple finishes, so decide if you prefer architectural and bold, or a light floating feel.

Even better? You don’t have to match the finish of the fixture to your kitchen hardware. Consider the colors in your kitchen—appliances, flooring, décor, accent pieces. If your kitchen has gold knobs and a dark hardwood floor, those tones easily justify a gold, bronze, black, or even two-tone fixture! Don’t limit yourself here.

5. Style

The kitchen island is a great place to define the style of your home, so be daring! If you’re decorating your forever home, hang a pendant you really love. If you plan to resell, consider hanging a trendy, popular fixture that will appeal to the largest group of buyers later.

Whatever you hang, avoid an awkward look by hanging your light at the correct height. The bottom of the fixture should sit 30-36” from the top of the counter to best emphasize the beauty of your pendant and preserve needed space.

6. Function

Light output is one element of a pendant’s functionality, but the styling and shape of the light also have significant impact. Open and airy fixtures lighten the look of the kitchen, creating negative space and emphasizing kitchen openness. They spread light more generally throughout the kitchen.

Opaque, metal fixtures create solid, positive space that fills in gaps and draws the eye. This solidness directs the light downward and brightens usable counter space making solid fixtures better task lighting than glass ones. Both options are good, but some will be better for your needs than others.

With such a wide array of pendants to choose from, you’re sure to find one that works for you! Compare your top favorites for their functionality and flair, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Illuminations with any questions.

Everything You Need to Know About DIY Track Lighting

by admin · Sep 14, 2020

Track lighting can be a wonderful addition to your home. These stylish, functional pieces have limitless uses, including:

Directional task lighting
Over-the-table or kitchen island lighting
Artwork spotlight lighting
Over-the-mantle lighting
Eye-catching general lighting

Designers have traditionally used track lighting in narrow hallways or to highlight art on the wall in studies, but because of its incredible flexibility, it is now used more extensively in living rooms, bathrooms and even bedrooms. This adds a contemporary touch to almost any space, making it perfect for a new build home or for renovated spaces in an existing home.

However, because multiple pieces are needed to assemble a functional track lighting system, picking the right one for you can seem daunting. The good news is that simple track lighting systems are made up of three different pieces, and knowing more about them can help you pick the right one.

1. The Track

First, take a look at the track itself. If you’re buying an all-inclusive fixture, style and size are your primary concerns. Is it large enough for your space? Will it perform its function and add the style you want?

If you’re purchasing components separately to create a custom fixture, keep in mind that different companies use different “styles” of track. Most companies sell tracks in segments ranging from 2’ to 8’, usually in H-style, J-style, and L-style. Any style will work, as long as you make sure ALL the components are the same style.

2. The Power Source

Examine the space where you’ll place the track lighting. The power source can be added in the middle of the track, or on the end, depending on your needs. If your electrical box is between each end of the track, use a floating canopy. If your track system will begin at the electrical box, you will need a live end feed power source.

3. The Track Heads

These heads will add your personal style to the track, in addition to facilitating the light source. Similarly, select your bulb based on the task and atmosphere it’s meant to serve, whether it’s an integrated LED head or a standard light bulb socket. To attach the track heads, simply insert the connection points inside the track and rotate the connection point until they lock in place.

4. Custom Built vs. All-Inclusive Tracks

Top-tier track lighting companies, such as Nuvo Lighting, offer countless kits that include all three components. They’re ready for assembly and easily to install, and you know exactly how your track light will turn out.

On the other hand, they also sell the components separately to enable full customization. This way, you can create a track lighting fixture that fits your exact needs and style, even if it requires a bit more work to keep things consistent.

Keep in mind that some types of track lighting require additional parts. For example, a Flexrail system uses mounts with posts that suspend the track from the ceiling, instead of mounting it flush to the drywall.

Now that you know the basics, you’re ready to tackle your own lighting project! As always, feel free to contact one of our lighting experts with any questions. Here’s to you and keeping your track lighting project on track!

9 Mind-Blowing Uses for LED Strip Lights

by admin · Sep 14, 2020

If you’re looking to add some atmosphere or a little more “IT” factor to your living spaces, new and ultra-versatile LED strip lighting may be the perfect thing for you. Sized smaller than your pinky finger and capable of infinite adjustments in color, length, lumens, and voltage, LED strip lights like these can hide, and transform, just about any space you can imagine.

As a general rule, LEDs at 3000 kelvins (the ranking for light color) feel warm, cozy, and atmospheric, making them preferable for residential uses. These LED strip lights can transform virtually any space, so long as they can still connect to a power source. Ready for some of our favorite examples?

1. Kitchen Cabinets

Use LED strip lights under cabinets as trendy task lighting. It’ll illuminate your counters and your beloved backsplash. For extra pizzazz, add a strip under your bottom cabinets as well—it’ll add more dimension to your room and give you several good options for night lighting!

2. Hallways and Bookshelves

For some subtle lighting in the hallway, apply the strip lighting under the trim piece that is dropped from the ceiling. As for bookshelves, line them inside, under, or above shelves to dress then t up and make them extra inviting.

3. Artwork

In addition to spotlights or general lighting, lining the back or sides of a frame really makes artwork pop!

4. Master Bedroom

LED strip lights are a low-cost way to bring some soft mood lighting to your most relaxing space. Line them along your headboard, around artwork, or bordering your doors.

5. Night Light

Use a similar trick for small children up to teens, turning strip lighting into a fashionable, functional nightlight.

6. Bathrooms

Add LED’s behind your bathroom mirror for an extra glow, or consider one of their most functional uses ever—under the cabinet lighting! Prevent middle-of-the-night toe injuries by using subtle strip lights to illuminate the space.

7. Stairs

For extra convenience and safety, LED’s fit on the underside of a hand rail for night-time access or under the lip of each step. Say goodbye to stubbed toes and awkward stumbling!

8. Mirrors

Hanging mirrors have a gap that provides easy access for LED’s! You’ll love the extra task lighting for shaving, applying makeup, or just getting a good view with that extra glow.

9. Outside

So many great uses here! LED strips add some atmosphere to any patio, pool ledge, or pergola. Line outdoor pathways or stairs with these tiny lights and enjoy their practical side as well.

If you’re feeling excited by these possibilities, reach out to us to learn more! As your local lighting showroom, we know the ins and outs of quality, affordable lighting in all shapes and sizes. Illuminations is here for all your project needs!

Timeless VS. Trendy: Which Works Best In Your Home?

by admin · Sep 14, 2020

Keeping up with trends, whether commercially or only as an observer, can be a fun hobby! There’s so much variety, beauty, and class in this world. However, trends in fashion, décor, and even lighting, revolve quickly. If you’re thinking of replacing a more permanent part of your home, such as the flooring, plumbing, or lighting, it’s tricky to be trendy and timeless at the same time.

So how do you decide? Should you choose the latest look, with all the “Ooh”s and “Ahhh”s it’ll bring? Or should you be conservative and avoid something you’ll regret in 5 years? After all, tiny details can date a home. You know, wallpaper from the 70’s, pink tile in the 80’s, burgundy and forest green from the 90’s, bronze and faux finishes from the early 2000’s…

There isn’t one right way to go about this, nor is there one easy answer to the “trendy vs. timeless” debate. However, here are a few things to consider.

It’s Not All or Nothing

You may love some of the styles that have withstood the test of time: subway tile, herringbone (fabric and flooring), or wood floors. That’s great! On the other hand, that doesn’t mean that you can’t also incorporate this year’s hot paint colors and some trendy macramé hangings into your décor as well. Don’t try to decide everything at once, and don’t base all your decisions off of one piece of your home.

Consider Your Resale Plans

There are some cases when it’s better to choose trendy décor and finishes, even if the current trend is not your personal favorite. If you’re building a new home, remodeling, or flipping a home with any intention to sell soon, go trendy. Homes that are on trend show well and sell faster.

Avoid Over-Decorating

Though you could argue that “minimalism” is a trend in itself, we’re convinced that good use of space is timeless. Though it can be tempting to fill every shelf or cover every wall with your latest finds, an over-decorated, crowded space diminishes the artistic effect of any style. In addition, it’ll be easier to update your look later if you have few, carefully chosen accent pieces that can rotate with the next trend.

Be Smart About Trendy

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t have unlimited time and funds to remodel the kitchen or buy a new couch every time popular trend takes a new direction. However, there are plenty of simple, cost-effective ways to make your space trendy and new. Here’s a list of our favorite ideas!

1. Change an indoor paint color. Indoor paint runs its course in about 5 years, so it makes sense. You could even start with a small room… less time, big reward!

2. Rotate your rug or change it altogether. Rugs have a natural knap to them depending on how they are woven. A quick rotation may surprise you with a significant difference.

3. Update your throw pillows on the bed and couches. It’s a quick, cost-effective change!

4. Especially during the winter, add a plant or some kind of earthy décor element to bring a natural, refreshing feel to your space.

5. Switch out some art. Frames may be pricey, but prints usually aren’t! Buy a new family photo, modern print, or custom piece of art to freshen up your frames

6. Replace a key lighting fixture. In addition to updating your look, switching to new bulbs will save you money on your utility bill. Check out our catalog for some good recommendations!

7. Buy new dish towels or dinnerware. An extra pop of color can change the atmosphere in the kitchen or add some extra fun at dinner.

Make Your Home Your Own

Trends will come and go… And traditional styles? Even there, there’s a ton of variation! Contemporary. Transitional. Rustic. Vintage. Urban. Eclectic… no matter the style, take the time to create a home environment that speaks to you. If it suits your needs and appeals to your unique style, it’ll be timeless. Best of luck from Illuminations in your decorating adventures!

Dark Sky Lighting: Mysteries Revealed

by admin · Sep 14, 2020

When was the last time you really saw the beautiful night sky? Was it in your backyard last night or your last camping trip? Too often, the breathtaking night sky is just a summer memory, overshadowed by street lamps and light pollution.

That’s where Dark Sky lighting comes in. Dark Sky outdoor lighting is designed to point the light towards the ground and not up into the sky, where it can contribute to light pollution. In fact, a growing number of communities are now introducing dark sky ordinances that require dark sky outdoor lighting with specific types of reflectors, shields, cut-off angles, and bulbs.

Seem drastic? You’d be surprised how far-reaching the effects of overly bright outdoor lights can be. Not only do they add to light pollution and make it difficult to enjoy the stars, but they also disrupt the natural cycle of nocturnal animals. Excessively bright lights can also cause “sky glow”, an unnatural, manmade illumination of the sky that resembles smog.

Luckily, Dark Sky lighting is becoming increasingly common, and there are plenty of ways to transform your outdoor lighting to meet these new guidelines. Start from scratch with stylish, efficient new fixtures, or try some of the tips below.

Consider adding a motion sensor on your outdoor lights. It’ll turn on the light when needed and turn it off automatically when it’s not.
Instead of a new fixture, try a new bulb. Decreasing the lumens of outdoor bulbs makes for better night lighting, since it illuminates the area only as needed.
Consider shading your outdoor fixtures, blocking light from entering the sky unnecessarily. You can also point your fixtures at the ground to increase the accuracy of the light.
Avoid using light that crosses property lines. This can detract from property values and irritate neighbors, so try to be considerate by angling lights away from neighbors’ fences and windows.

Make your nights clearer and your lights smarter by investing in Dark Sky lighting. Not only does it protect the environment, it boosts your efficiency and saves you money. Not a bad deal, right? So give it a try and go enjoy those stars.

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