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7 Stunning Kitchens that Will Inspire You to Install Pendants Immediately

7 Stunning Kitchens that Will Inspire You to Install Pendants Immediately

by admin · Oct 11, 2024

Pendants lights – not only do they make a great focal point, they also provide the perfect amount of light when the late-night ice cream cravings hit. From moody modern to rustic charm, pendant lights effortlessly fit into just about any interior style, making them a favorite choice for homeowners and designers alike. With a little inspiration, your kitchen can find its perfect pendant match to infuse your kitchen with both charm and functionality!

Clean Lines

This kitchen should be on the cover of a magazine! We love how these tapered black pendants draw your eye upward and make the ceilings feel even taller! They’re perfect for a kitchen with a modern vibe, but they are so versatile that they’ll pair well with any style.

Rustic Charm

These cage pendants bring a little modern charm to a kitchen with a rustic flair. The black contrasts with the white and wood kitchen accents, and ties together the cabinet hardware, chair legs, and window casings. They give the whole kitchen a cozy atmosphere that lends itself to even the most important conversations! Obsessed is an understatement.

Matching Marble

Contrast is important in interior design – but it’s not the end-all be-all for lighting choices. Instead of matching your fixture finishes with t he cabinet hardware or appliances to make them pop, consider looking into pendants that match your countertops or cabinet color! Choosing pieces you love lets your personality shine through the design and it obviously pays off.

Industrial Modern

This kitchen has stunning industrial elements we can get behind – exposed brick, iron window casings, and sleek cabinet fronts to name a few! The warm tones turn a colder industrial style into a comfortable space where you’ll want to spend your time. But the pièce de résistance of the entire space is this gorgeous asymmetric pendant cluster hung over the island. This modern fixture ties everything together for a cohesive look that we couldn’t love more!

Monochromatic Breakfast Bar

Monochromatic can be a tricky look to pull off, but when it works, it works. Using all green for the cabinets and walls makes the wood and yellow accents pop! The green dome-shaped pendants hung above this bar blend in with the walls to highlight the most-used area in any kitchen – the countertop! The accessories on this counter give the otherwise monotone space plenty of personality with practical pieces in fun pops of color. You could easily whip up some toast and hot chocolate without even opening a drawer! 

Dainty Glass

Glass shades are always going add a touch of elegance to a space, but these ones really pull out all the stops. They’re the perfect size to give you enough light to chat with your loved ones while you’re baking your famous cookie recipe or setting out a snack bar for the big game. The gold accents on these pendants pair beautifully with the faucet, and the result is a kitchen we are dying to steal. 

Timeless Beauty

Updating your kitchen can be a massive undertaking – you shouldn’t have to do it every 5 years. Instead, pick classic pieces like these matte black pendants that will match your style for years to come. A pendant with a classic shape in a neutral finish will adapt to whatever fashion throws your way – and it’ll look gorgeous doing it.

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No matter the style, pendants are a staple in kitchens for a reason! Pendants provide much-needed extra light in important countertop work spaces… and they totally transform the mood and atmosphere of your kitchen! No matter what direction you choose, your new kitchen pendants are sure to make a statement. 

For your next kitchen lighting project, don’t get caught catching buyers remorse – check in with a local lighting expert that can help you find exactly what you need. When you’re ready to get started,  give us a call and our experts will help you narrow down your options and give you tips on your next stunning kitchen lighting project.

Filed Under: 2024, Kitchen Lighting

Trending: Organic-Inspired Interiors – Bringing the Outdoors In

Trending: Organic-Inspired Interiors – Bringing the Outdoors In

by admin · Oct 4, 2024

“What is the good of your stars and trees, your sunrise and the wind, if they do not enter into our daily lives?” –E.M. Forster

Imagine stepping into a home that feels like a sanctuary, where every corner echoes the beauty of the world outside. That’s the magic of organic modern design. It’s a canvas that celebrates the elegant simplicity found in nature, weaving it seamlessly into our personal spaces.

What is Organic Modern Design?

This nature-inspired design trend has been growing in recent years and is all over social media and in interior design publications – and for good reason! Organic modern design is an interior design style that harmoniously blends contemporary aesthetics with elements of the natural world. It emphasizes clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and an abundance of natural light. 

This design style celebrates the relationship between humans and the natural world, incorporating organic shapes, textures, and colors into modern, clean-lined living spaces. The goal is a warm, inviting space that creates a sense of tranquility, balance, and a connection to nature.

After the rollercoaster of the past few years, many of us are craving a deeper connection to nature and the outdoors, and the enduring popularity of the organic modern design philosophy is here to deliver. So, if you’re ready to pay homage to Mother Nature in your space in the coming year, take some inspiration from the gorgeous, earthy interiors below!

 

This boho-inspired bedroom leans into the organic modern trend with great use of warm tones and natural accessories; including a rattan pendant light hanging over a bed of simple cotton textiles, a textural jute rug, a display of dried grasses, and simple wooden roman shades. The decor pieces elevate this otherwise rather minimalist space.

 

An excellent way to bring an earthy texture and feel into your home is with fixtures and decor pieces made with natural materials – such as these pendant light fixtures made from woven rattan. Other materials to consider include bamboo, wicker, jute, seagrass, limestone, clay, cork, cotton, wool, and leather. 

 

This space seems simple but makes wonderful use of organic, flowing shapes and a subtle punch of color. The sage green wall color and credenza pair well with the soft off-white chair, abstract artwork, and clay vases. Changing up your paint or displaying a few thoughtfully selected decor pieces is an easy way to breathe life into a room.

 

This living room features a neutral, yet well-balanced color palette – commonly seen in organic design.  The layering of clean-lined furniture, lush green potted plants, and minimalist decor pieces keep the space airy and welcoming. 

 

Bathrooms are a great place to start your journey into the organic modern design movement. This bathroom retreat is characterized by a seamless blend of neutral-tones and wood textures. A freestanding bathtub sits beside rustic wood shutters, inviting in the lush plant life outside. A floating vanity keeps the lines in the space clean while leafy potted plants infuse the space with a calming, spa-like ambiance.

 

White they are a staple of organic design, you don’t have to make live house plants the focus of your space if it’s just not your vibe or if you don’t have the space (or the green thumb). You can still bring a little bit of the outdoors in with a few small, well-placed plants adorning your space – such as those seen on these raw wood bookshelves. 

 

Since we’re on the topic of plants and greenery, we can’t forget to talk about the drama that is a plant wall! Plant walls and vertical gardens are a unique way to honor nature and truly blur the lines between indoors and outdoors. The rest of the pieces in this chic space are neutral enough to keep the focus on the wall while still being eye-catching in their own right.

 

In this organic-inspired kitchen, natural wood-grained cabinetry, stone countertops, and carefully curated decor take center stage. The open wood shelving, wide plank wood floors, and wooden beam add a touch of rustic, artisanal charm.

 

Natural light should be emphasized whenever possible in organic modern design. Capitalize on the natural light streaming into your home and create an oasis in your bedroom sanctuary. Balancing out bold plant life with subdued, natural-toned bedding creates a harmonious look and feel.

Pro Tip: Maximizing the use of daylight not only reduces reliance on artificial lighting but also improves mood, productivity, and overall health. Consider the strategic placement of windows, skylights, and glass doors to flood your space with sunlight. 

 

Furniture and fixtures made from natural elements set organic modern interiors apart from other design styles. This beautiful, rustic driftwood light fixture with warm Edison bulbs in varying shapes is simply stunning and unlike anything you’ve likely seen before. For help finding your own unique, nature-inspired light fixtures, check out Desert Lighting! 

 

This bohemian-chic bedroom almost feels like a spa! A folding bamboo screen, simple wood bench, dried pampas grass, wicker lanterns, a wood basket, and earth-toned textiles bring warm, organic charm to the space. 

 

Color reigns supreme in this golden, earth-toned living room. Using nature-inspired artwork is an easy way to add a bit of the organic design trend to your own home. Also, how charming is that mushroom-shaped side table/ottoman?

 

The last few inspiration photos featured a lot of earthy accessories. You can embrace nature more simply, however, by showcasing your home’s architectural features and location. If you have amazing windows with a gorgeous view of the lush outdoors and ample natural light – like this swoon-worthy home – that’s all you need! Sometimes less truly is more. 

 

Gorgeous is an understatement when it comes to this expansive living room! Nature and organic elements can be emphasized through more than houseplants and decor alone. This space features breathtaking views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, an expansive natural stone fireplace, and beautiful warm wood flooring and bookcases. Don’t you just want to curl up here to soak in the snowy view, a warm cup of tea, and a good book?

 

As we move forward in a world seeking balance and harmony, organic modern design stands at the forefront of interior design trends. It’s a testament to our connection to nature, a reminder that our well-being is intertwined with the environment around us. Infuse your home with the beauty and energy of the outdoors. Let it be a place of solace, a sanctuary that replenishes your spirit, and a canvas that celebrates the wonders of the natural world.

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Ready to transform your space? Contact us today for a personalized consultation and let’s bring nature’s beauty into your home!

 

Filed Under: 2024

Garage Lighting: A Comprehensive Guide

Garage Lighting: A Comprehensive Guide

by admin · Sep 27, 2024

Welcome, homeowners, to a guide that sheds light on an often overlooked yet crucial aspect of your home – garage lighting. Whether you use your garage for storage, as a workspace, or simply to park your vehicle, proper lighting can transform it into a safer, more functional space. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of thoughtful garage lighting, different lighting options, and how you can enhance both functionality and aesthetics. If you find yourself in need of expert advice tailored to your unique requirements, don’t hesitate to reach out to us – your local lighting specialists.

Why Does Garage Lighting Matter?

Garages are versatile spaces, serving various purposes beyond parking cars, so adequate lighting is essential for safety, security, and efficiency. Insufficient lighting can lead to accidents, difficulty finding items, and a general lack of usability. By investing in the right lighting solutions, you can significantly improve the functionality and overall appeal of your garage.

Types of Garage Lighting

Adding additional light to your garage doesn’t have to be a difficult task. Here’s a few of the different types of garage lighting to help you get started:

Overhead Lighting

Many garages are only equipped with a single bulb located in the center of the ceiling. While it may technically light the space, it’s really not enough to make your garage a safe or usable place to move through or work on projects.

  • Consider replacing your bare bulb for fluorescent or LED fixtures for bright, energy-efficient lighting.
  • Choose fixtures with multiple bulbs pointing in different directions to ensure even distribution of light to eliminate dark corners.
  • If you’re building or renovating, look into having an electrician wire extra lights into the ceiling to give more thorough coverage.

Task Lighting

If you have places in your garage where you work on certain tasks, like a workbench, it’s always a good idea to add extra lighting to that space. Task lighting makes doing tasks easier and safer, which is especially important when working with tools.

  • Install task lights above workbenches or specific work areas. If you have existing lighting above the space, swap out the fixture for something that gives better light. If you don’t, consider installing a corded fixture, like a ceiling or wall light, to give better overall coverage. Secure the cord properly to avoid it catching or becoming a trip hazard.
  • For more up-close lighting, any heavy duty lamp will do. One of our personal favorites are LED strip lights, which can be installed with 3M sticky tape to the underside of shelves or interior of cabinets. Strip lights can be battery powered, rechargeable, or corded, and are excellent for focused, glare-free illumination.

Motion-Activated Lights

There’s nothing quite like the way you feel when you walk into your workspace and everything lights up, on its own, ready to get started. Motion lights can be a practical addition to your garage, but they’re also just really cool.

  • Always accidentally leaving the light on? Motion lights can make your garage more energy-efficient, and eliminate the “oh crap” moment when you realize you left the lights on… two days ago.
  • Install motion-activated lights near the driveway and other entry points to increase safety and ensure a well-lit path upon arrival. For a wire-free option for your exterior entry points, look into motion-activated solar lights that can charge up during the day and light your doorway at night.

Natural Light

Nothing beats the way sunlight can light your garage… for free.

  • Maximize natural light through windows or skylights by keeping the glass clean. If privacy is a concern, try adding a privacy film that obscures the view without blocking the light.
  • If your garage lacks windows, you’re not without options. While it may be a pricier solution, opting for a garage door with windows can also add natural light to an otherwise dark garage. 

Decorative Lights

For those of us who rack up plenty of garage hours on the regular, there’s nothing wrong with adding a little bit of personality to your space.

  • The types of decorative lighting for a garage are as varied as the tasks done while in one. Anything goes here – whether it’s a neon sign, a traffic light, a back-lit clock, or a company logo from your at-home startup.
  • For decorative items that don’t light up, look into installing track lights or wall sconces to shine a light on your collection.

Creating Zones

To make the most effective lighting plan for your garage, you’ll want to break it into zones. Take a moment and draw out the layout of your garage, and then take note of how you use each part of the space. Segment your garage into functional zones and tailor the lighting accordingly, taking into account how the natural light coming in through the windows will complement the light during the times of day you’ll use the garage. Some zones might include: parking, work bench, storage, lounge area, play area, gym, mudroom, etc.

This approach allows you to customize the lighting to suit specific needs, providing a well-lit and organized space. General use areas are usually fine with simple overhead lighting. In workspace zones, supplement with strategic task lighting to increase usability and safety. Strategically place motion-activated lights for security, and for that “wow” moment you want to give when you invite your friends over to check out your latest project. 

Choosing the Right Fixtures

When selecting fixtures, prioritize energy efficiency and durability. LED lights are an excellent choice, offering longevity, energy savings, and a range of color temperatures to suit your preferences. Additionally, if the work you do in your garage involves working with colors, such as detailing your car or refinishing furniture, consider bulbs or fixtures with a high Color Rendering Index (CRI) for accurate color representation.

For single-fixture overhead lighting, opt for bulbs that shine light in multiple directions (like the one seen above), or for fixtures that allow light to shine in every direction without casting shadows. Be aware of obstacles that could block your light, like storage or pillars, and choose fixtures that can work around them to minimize shadowy dark spots – like a long fluorescent tube or a fold-out (deformable) LED bulb.

If you live in an area with very high or very low temperatures, it’s also a good idea to check on the temperature tolerance of the fixture and bulb. Consider choosing outdoor-rated fixtures for garages without temperature control.

As lighting experts, we understand the unique requirements of homeowners when it comes to garage lighting. If you’re ready to transform your garage into a well-lit and functional space, contact us for personalized advice and a curated selection of lighting solutions. Or, visit our local showroom to explore the latest trends in garage lighting, and let us guide you toward creating a brighter, safer, and more inviting garage space.

 

Filed Under: 2024

Lighting Solutions for Open Floor Plans: 5 Essential Steps

Lighting Solutions for Open Floor Plans: 5 Essential Steps

by admin · Sep 20, 2024

In the world of interior design, open floor plans have become the standard of modern living. Open plans blend living, dining, and kitchen areas into a (hopefully) seamless and cohesive space that provides many options for functionality and creativity. The airiness in an open plan creates an atmosphere that’s hard to beat. But it’s this same openness that creates a unique set of challenges when it comes to lighting. 

How do you ensure every nook and cranny is well-lit? How do you ensure that your lighting choices work well with each other and provide a sense of harmony and balance? Lighting an open floor plan requires a bit of planning, but it’s very doable. 

What are some of the challenges with lighting an open floor plan?

  • Multiple Functions, One Space: Open floor plans often combine living, dining, kitchen, and occasionally other work areas. Each of these spaces requires different lighting levels and types. For example, a kitchen island may require task lighting, while the living area needs ambient and accent lighting.
  • Limited Wall Space: In a traditional room, you can usually rely on wall-mounted fixtures or strategically placed lamps for ambient lighting. Open floor plans have fewer walls, which can limit the location options for fixtures that evenly distribute light.
  • Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality: Because all areas are connected, the fixtures you choose will be visible from everywhere. It’s important to choose light fixtures that can be both beautiful and provide the amount of light needed for the tasks and activities taking place in each area of the space.
  • Maintaining Visual Harmony: With an open layout, it’s important that the lighting fixtures and decor flow seamlessly from one area to another. This can be a challenge if there are significant style or design differences between spaces. This can also make placing drop-down fixtures such as pendants or chandeliers tricky – they might light the table perfectly, but block sight or conversation lines between other areas in the space.

So, how do we tackle these challenges? Follow these 5 steps for beautiful and balanced open floor plan lighting:

 

1. Think About Scale and Proportion

When it comes to lighting, size and scale matter. Massive chandeliers or pendant lights might be eye-catching, but they can overpower the room and disrupt the balance and flow of a space. Likewise, fixtures that are too small and underwhelming can be lost in the visual depth of an open floor plan.  

A fixture’s scale (size in relation to the space it occupies as well as other design elements) should align with its intended purpose. For example, a fixture used for task lighting should illuminate it’s specific work areas without too much overlap, and a ceiling fixture used for ambient lighting should provide consistent overall coverage without overpowering or underwhelming the room. 

 

2. Layer Your Lighting for Depth and Drama

Just like a painting, a well-lit space has layers. Think like an artist and use these layers to achieve lighting perfection. Here’s how you can do it:

  • Ambient Lighting: This is your base, providing overall illumination. Consider recessed lights or track lighting for even coverage.
  • Task Lighting: This is focused light for specific activities like reading, cooking, or working. Think pendant lights over an island or desk lamps.
  • Accent Lighting: Add drama and highlight architectural features, artwork, or plants. Use wall sconces, spotlights, or strip lights.

 

3. Create Zones with Different Fixtures

Since open floor plans combine multiple functions in one space, it’s crucial to define different areas with lighting:

  • Living Area: Use a combination of floor lamps, table lamps, and overhead fixtures to create a cozy ambiance.
  • Dining Area: A pendant light or chandelier hung low over the dining table sets the mood for intimate gatherings. Depending on the layout, wall sconces are also a great option.
  • Kitchen: Under-cabinet lighting brightens up workspaces, while pendant lights over an island provide functional and decorative illumination.

 

4. Play with Temperature

The color temperature of your bulbs can significantly impact the mood of your space. It’s okay to mix and match light colors throughout, but avoid large differences in ambient color temperature in adjoining spaces.

  • Warm White (2700K-3000K): Creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere, perfect for living and dining areas.
  • Cool White (3500K-4100K): Provides bright, energizing light suitable for kitchens and workspaces.
  • Daylight (5000K+): Mimics natural daylight and works well in task-oriented areas.

 

5. Embrace Natural Light

In any rooms that have windows, you always want to consider the natural light that comes through them as a part of your lighting plan. A good lighting plan doesn’t just consider how the space will look in the evenings – you’ll also want to strategically place fixtures to complement, rather than compete with, natural light. Watch your room throughout the day, and throughout the seasons. You’ll notice places where the natural light might need a little extra help.

When you can harmonize your light fixtures with the changing natural light, you’ll end up with a space that feels just right from dawn to dusk. Planning your lighting around natural is big deal, but it’s not the only way to take advantage of the free light streaming through your windows.  Here are a few more tips for striking a harmonious balance with the natural and artificial lighting in your open floor plan:

  • Window Treatments: To let in more light without sacrificing privacy, look for light, airy curtains to use during the day. Don’t forget – sheer curtains aren’t great for privacy when it’s dark outside, so they work best in conjunction with a layer of blackout curtains or a set of blinds. If curtains aren’t your thing – opt for light-colored blinds that can be angled to allow natural light to flow freely. 
  • Mirrors and Reflective Surfaces: Strategically placing mirrors opposite windows can help bounce light around the room, making it feel even brighter and more spacious. You can get a similar result with furniture or art pieces with reflective surfaces – so feel free to mix and match to get the right look.
  • Install Dimmer Switches: Dimmer switches allow you to adjust the intensity of artificial light to complement changing natural light conditions. It’s a great solution for those cloudy days when the sunlight isn’t *quite* enough – you can add just a *bit* of light to comfortably see what you need to do without having to blast a full set of ceiling lights in the middle of the day. 

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Remember, lighting is the heartbeat of any space, and in an open floor plan, it is an especially powerful element that can transform and define the space. If you find yourself needing personalized guidance or are seeking that perfect lighting fixture, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lighting design expert. Their expertise can make all the difference in creating a space that not only looks amazing but also feels amazing!

 

Filed Under: 2024

Bright Ideas: 5 Creative Tips and Tricks for Easy DIY Light Installation

Bright Ideas: 5 Creative Tips and Tricks for Easy DIY Light Installation

by admin · Sep 13, 2024

Maybe you’ve just moved into a new home and want to elevate your bland builder-grade light fixtures. Or perhaps you’ve lived in your space for years and are looking to make some changes to your lighting as part of a larger renovation project. Whatever the case may be, changing out your own light fixtures and installing new ones doesn’t have to be a stressful project – especially when you use some of these easy, creative DIY tips and tricks!

1. Use a tennis ball to figure out the best height for hanging fixtures

If you’re hanging a pendant light – above your kitchen island or dining table, for example – attach a tennis ball to a length of string and tack to the ceiling to better visualize where your fixtures may hang. Try out different heights before ultimately deciding what length fixtures work best in your space. It’s a lot easier to play around with a tennis ball to figure this out than it is your actual light fixture!

2. Wear a backpack to hold your fixture during installation to prevent accidental drops

 Another great hack when installing a hanging light is to use a backpack hung around your front to hold your fixture and keep it at the right height while you connect the wiring. You can also use the pockets to keep screws and other tools handy. 

3. Take a “before” photo

If you’re at all nervous you’ll connect wires incorrectly, simply take one or two photos of the existing wiring before you disconnect your old fixture. You can then reference this photo later if you need a reminder of how the wires are connected. Likewise, consider labeling wires with tape to keep things organized.

4. Use a laser level for perfect alignment

Use a laser level to make sure your fixture is perfectly aligned. This is especially helpful for fixtures with multiple components or those that need to be level for aesthetic reasons. Laser levels are a great investment for many around-the-house DIY projects!

5. No wiring? No problem!

If you have the perfect place for a wall sconce but don’t have existing wiring, consider installing the sconce (utilizing wall anchors) and then adding a battery-powered LED puck light inside the sconce in place of a conventional lightbulb. If your sconce doesn’t allow easy access to the LED light puck opt for a model with a remote for easy on/off. You can leave the existing light fixture wiring in place, simply tuck them into the wall plate/body of the fixture before screwing it into the wall. Then you can still wire the fixture in the future if you decide to.

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Remember, while these simple tips and tricks for easy DIY light installation can be helpful, always prioritize safety and make sure to follow the installation instructions that come with the fixture. If ever you’re unsure about anything, consult with a professional electrician or meet with a lighting expert at Desert Lighting for guidance. 

 

Filed Under: 2024, How to

What is CFM? Ceiling Fan Acronyms Demystified

What is CFM? Ceiling Fan Acronyms Demystified

by admin · Sep 6, 2024

If you’ve ever shopped for ceiling fans, more than likely you’ve run across a new few terms and acronyms. Don’t fall into the trap of ignoring the specs and shopping for looks alone – CFM is an important term to understand before you decide on your next ceiling fan.

What is CFM?

CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute, which is a measurement that tells you how many cubic feed or air pass by a point in one minute. For ceiling fans, the CFM will tell you how much air a fan can move, or how “windy” it will feel at its highest speed. You’ll also see CFM referred to as “Max Airflow”.

There are a few things that can impact a fan’s CFM, including the motor and the number, pitch (or angle), and length of the fan’s blades. The most important thing to remember is that the higher the CFM, the more air the fan will move.

How much CFM do I need?

Generally speaking, a ceiling fan with a CFM over 4,000 should be enough for your needs, but a CFM over 6,000 is better. Some brands call fans with a CFM over 7,000 high airflow and over 9,000 CFM extreme airflow. 

This gets more complicated when you take into account the size of the room and the height of the ceiling. A small bedroom with 8 foot ceilings will be fine with a fan with lower CFM, and a large great room with vaulted ceilings will need to have a fan with much higher CFM in order to move enough air to feel it throughout the space. 

Because fan and motor designs vary by the fan and the brand, the best way to know for sure if you’re getting a ceiling fan that will work well for your room is to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for room size. 

CFM and Energy Efficiency

CFM is a useful measurement on its own, but it’s also a the key ingredient for figuring out how efficient your ceiling fan is. If you don’t pay attention to efficiency, you could accidentally end up with a fan that uses a lot of energy, costing you more money to use than you realised until it’s too late. An energy efficient fan will move more air using less energy, meaning you can keep your room cool without an unexpected spike in your power bill. 

To determine the efficiency of a fan you have to do a little bit of math. Airflow efficiency is CFM divided by the watts (or energy) used to power the fan at its highest speed. For example, a ceiling fan with 4,000 CFM that uses 80 watts will have an airflow efficiency score of 50 (4,000 / 80 = 50). 

Generally speaking, a ceiling fan with an airflow efficiency of 75 is considered efficient, but this can vary depending on the size of the fan. One of the easiest ways for consumers to tell if a fan will be energy efficient is to look for the Energy Star logo on the packaging. Any ceiling fan with an Energy Star endorsement will be much more efficient than conventional fans, which will save you money in the long run.

To see a breakdown of how Energy Star uses fan size and CFM to determine whether or not a fan is eligible for an Energy Star rating, check out these graphs. If energy efficiency is a goal for your ceiling fan search, you can also browse ceiling fans on our website, and filter by Energy Star to see only fans with an Energy Star certification. 

 

In short, CFM is a measurement that tells you how much air a fan moves at its highest speed. How much CFM you need from a fan depends a lot on the room its in – the overall size, the usage, the ceiling height, etc. While CFM isn’t the only statistic on the box that matters when shopping for a fan, it’s definitely an important number to consider – especially how it relates to energy efficiency and the amount of money you’ll spend using your fan over the years. Need help finding a ceiling fan? Our lighting experts can help you find exactly what you need at Desert Lighting.

 

Filed Under: 2024

How to Design a Gorgeous Home That Will Stand the Test of Time

How to Design a Gorgeous Home That Will Stand the Test of Time

by admin · Aug 30, 2024

Designing a home that will stand the test of time is an opportunity to create something that will last – beyond fleeting trends, changing styles, and ever-evolving tastes. It involves thoughtful consideration of how each element contributes to the whole design! By choosing simple, elegant, and balanced pieces, you can create a room that will be a sanctuary apart from the whims of a world in perpetual motion.

Keep It Simple

Embracing simplicity is the key to a home that will survive the passing trends. Sticking to the basics will ensure your design won’t be outdated as soon as you finish it! Pick classic patterns, a neutral color palette, and stick to finishes that will pass the test of time. Remember, less is more in a timeless home!

Use a Neutral Color Palette

Neutrals provide a base that will complement the trends of any era. Choosing a neutral color palette is the safest bet if you don’t want to frequently repaint or re-furnish your home, but still want to keep it looking fresh and up-to-date! 

This does not mean you have to go beige head to toe – if you’re a color-lover, consider adding bright elements in the artwork and other easily-replaceable accessories like pillows, rugs, lamps, drapes, etc. Then it’s an easy swap when you’re ready for a style change!

This home’s neutral color palette is sure to withstand any style changes that are thrown at it! From floor to ceiling, this space speaks elegance. The houseplants add a pop of life and color, and there’s plenty of room to add more personal touches. We love the way the table lamp mirrors the arched windows and adds interest with a metallic bronze finish. Lamps are a smart way to add a touch of trendy because they’re easy to move to a different location or replace as styles evolve!

Stick to Classic Patterns

Some patterns belong in the past while others seem to persist through the generations! When you’re adding visual interest, pick classic patterns instead of the current trends. Florals, stripes, damask, and some plaids are generally a safe choice.

This nook exudes a vintage feel without any out-of-date vibes. The floral patterns on the chair and wallpaper have been proven through the generations – they’re here to stay! We also love a lamp-shaded wall sconce like this one. Choosing a traditional shape means that even if you change out the furniture and/or accessories, your light fixture can still look fresh.

Finish Up With Finishes

When you’re designing a timeless home, lighting finishes can either bring your design into the current era (but may need to be replaced before long) or they can be an element that endures. Choosing the wrong finish can detract from the ultimate purpose of the design: transcending fads and remaining appealing throughout the years.

This home is ageless, but has elements to bring it into the present. The open space makes it a blank canvas to work with any design era. The gold hardware and light fixtures speak to the current trends and modernize the space. Even in a timeless design, it’s important to pick a few things you love – even if they might need to be replaced later. If you’re looking for something that will last, opt for crystal, nickel, or another classic finish.

Pro Tip: It’s also important to consider the style of your home. For example, ornate cabinet knobs may feel trendy in a sleek, modern kitchen, but will feel timeless in a historic home.

Use Natural Materials

Throughout every style era, the timelessness of nature continues to inspire beautiful designs. Whether it’s in the home’s architecture (wood accents, stone details, or tiles) or in the accessories (indoor plants, ceramics, and other accessories), natural elements will inevitably show up somewhere in every home. Finding ways to include natural materials in your home will keep your design current and beautiful for years to come!

This bathroom’s repeated warm wood accents tie this design together seamlessly. From the dresser to the vanity, the room feels cohesive and ageless. We always love a pendant vanity light, but we especially love this one for a timeless look! Its classic shape and color are bound to blend in with any trend – just change out a few of the countertop accessories and you’ll have a brand-new design without spending a fortune. 

Quality Over Quantity

When you’re wanting a design that lasts, durability has to be a big consideration. Investing in quality fixtures and furniture will bring you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you won’t need to spend more money later on repairs or replacements. Focus your efforts on building a core collection that will last, then you’ll have the time and budget to indulge in a trend here and there as you find things you love.

This kitchen is the perfect example of how a light fixture can completely transform a space! This white and grey kitchen needed a focal point, and this fixture delivers! The design of the fixture is classic take on crystal chandeliers, and it’ll last beyond trend shifts. Choosing a quality, classic light that makes you happy is a great way to ensure that you’ll love your lighting through the trends for years to come.

Focus on Functionality

A well-designed space that serves the people living there is more likely to remain relevant over time and can adapt to changing circumstances. Unlike trends that come and go, functional design focuses on design principles that transcend temporary styles..

Even the most gorgeous bathroom will feel outdated if usability isn’t considered first. A bathroom is one of the most vital rooms in the house, so it should be functional! It’s where you care for yourself and ensure you’re at your best. 

This stunning bathroom takes functionality to the next level, and maximizes a space with difficult proportions. This awkward space feels bright and open thanks to a focus on functional design. Placing the toilet under the low part of the ceiling maximizes the functionality of an otherwise unusable space. The vanity’s open design helps to make the room feel bigger, and it still packs plenty of storage with a pair of wide drawers. 

The light in this room has been cleverly layered with a functional and beautiful fixture over the vanity, and accent lighting behind the wooden panel that helps trick the eye into thinking the space is larger than it is. Taking the mirror all the way up and over maximizes usable mirror space (no more fighting for face time) while also reflecting the light and making the space feel larger. With it all put together, this angled ceiling feels more like a design feature rather than a space-stealer. 

Incorporate Your Style

No matter the room, the impact of the design will fall flat if you fail to add some personal touches! This isn’t simply a space to be lived in for years – it’s also a home to make memories in and find joy in. Build a base that will transcend trends, then mindfully select more modern pieces, knowing that you may want to update them throughout the years to maintain relevance.

This space is the perfect example of building a timeless base, then adding personal touches. The neutral colors and clean lines of the furniture, floors, and built-ins speak to timelessness, but the light fixtures are modern and on trend. Lamps and pendants (or just the shades) are fairly simple to replace, but without them this design wouldn’t be complete! 

The personal touches here are to die for. We love how this asymmetrical design uses different nightstands and lights, but still manages to maintain cohesiveness. Also peep all the accent lighting in this room – from the ceiling and walls to the built-ins, the lighting in this space packs a punch!

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When you put love and effort into a space, you’ll want to enjoy it with your loved ones for many years to come. From impromptu living room dances to enjoying meals together, your focus should be on each other – not the outdated design of your home! Our experts are ready to help you create a classic home that will still be true to you and your taste. Give Desert Lighting a call to get started!

Filed Under: 2024

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