FIND YOUR LIGHT
Much like the wise women in the Clueless film, I have to design a lighting concept. Cher and Dionne knew just how important it was to create the perfect hue for the optimum vibe. Lighting in a space really can set the entire tone of a room. That’s why it is so important not to let it become an afterthought. Planning a solid lighting layout from the get-go is a must.
In most of our rooms we are using recessed can lights as a base. Let me say that while can lights might seem boring, if you want function, task lighting or have a room with little natural light these are just essential. It’s better to have the option of more light and then you create mood with pendants, lamps and decorative options. Never discount good cans…LOL!
Now the fun part, decorative lighting. We have decided to install flush mount ceiling fans in the majority of the rooms. This is a choice based on the fact that Florida is, well, hot as you know what! So the placement of the other overhead lighting (i.e. pendants and chandeliers) must be done with strategic thoughtfulness. The other thing to take into consideration is choosing the right style to go with the era and design of the house. This house has quite a few original fixtures. I love to mix the old with new. This flush mount light in the top photo is a vintage midcentury modern fixture that was previously in the laundry room. It had me at hello. I’m planning to spruce it up and relocate it to the hallway where it can shine and be appreciated. Then, by incorporating some timeless clear glass pendants over the breakfast bar in the kitchen it will really help to bring the space up to date. These particular pendants were on sale at Pottery Barn (you can see them here) and I snagged them right up.
Tip 1: It’s important to go room by room, draw out your lighting design and see it on paper.
Tip 2: You can control the most sterile of lighting by simply adding a dimmer switch. We’ve pretty much put everything on a dimmer.
Check out the instagram page for more photos of the original lighting fixtures and stay tuned for which ones we repurpose. Random side note, anyone else humming Manfred Mann’s “Blinded By The Light” now?
