Home décor lighting has really taken a big step forward. Today’s lighting fixtures do so much more than simply illuminate a room. They can set the mood, be used as wall art, and even in some cases, improve your health.
Looking Up
Remember recessed canister lights? All the rage a couple decades ago, for the most part they were a practical choice…except for maybe the extra ceiling and sometimes wall holes, the fact they had a tendency to overheat, the hassle of having to change the bulbs and don’t forget they were unidirectional.
Thank goodness someone got smart and created disc lights. Everyone knows how energy efficient LED lights are, right? Well, how about a disc light complete with LED bulbs? Only about an inch in thickness, these lights look similar to old-school recessed can lights but perform much differently. First, disc lights are not recessed, they are mounted to the ceiling surface, so no extra holes to cause air leaks. The LED bulbs are permanently installed in the fixture itself and that means goodbye to changing out hard to reach bulbs. And LED bulbs have a life expectancy of 10-20 years, depending on usage, making replacing the fixture something you won’t have to deal with for a very long time.
Task Lighting
From kitchen counters and islands to bathroom cabinets and WFH offices, task lighting has become a separate lighting niche. And while natural lighting from a nearby window or skylight is a good source of task lighting, obviously it can’t be counted on 24 hours a day. Plus, while sunlight is great for things like reading or working on the computer, intricate detailed tasks including sewing and drawing definitely will need a dedicated task light. Before selecting a task lamp consider the following:
- Lamp and Shade Design, Style and Size
- Bulb Type Including Color and Wattage
- Reach, Flexibility, Ease of Adjustment
- Your Age and how it Affects Your Eyesight
Layered Lighting
According to the lighting experts, layered lighting is, “the use of multiple lighting types to create a well-lit and balanced space.” They break it down further by suggesting “ambient lighting for overall illumination, task lighting for work areas and accent lighting for areas of interest.” Basically this means, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Branch out and include different types of light fixtures when and where you need them. Like the comfort of turning on an overhead light when you walk in the door after a long day at work? Then install a decorative overhead ceiling light or add a light kit to a ceiling fan. Want a dedicated reading lamp next to your bed? Consider installing a permanent wall mounted fixture with an adjustable arm. Appreciate the warm and cozy feel that a mishmash of decorative table and floor lamps give? Then add them! Need a small spotlight on a piece of pottery or low wattage wall sconces to illuminate a dark hallway? The choice is all yours!
Finally ready to get started building your “forever” home? Compass Construction will be with you every step of the way. You give us your vision and we’ll bring it to reality. For more information or to schedule an appointment please connect with us by phone at 864-627-8804, by email at inquires@buildcompass.com, or simply fill out our safe and convenient online form.