Desert lighting

2022

Your Bathroom Lighting May Be Ruining Your Look- Here’s How You Can Fix It

Your Bathroom Lighting May Be Ruining Your Look- Here’s How You Can Fix It

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Picture this: You wake up early on a workday (a feat to be proud of). You don’t necessarily have to, but you’ve got the time, so you decide to spend some of that extra time on your makeup. After one last quick check in the mirror, you head out the door, feeling yourself and the look that you’ve created. Then, on a bathroom break at the office, you take a peek in the mirror and are surprised to see that your face here looks nothing like it did at home. What happened? Sure, the lighting isn’t great at the office, but there’s no way it could do all of this… right?

If this sounds familiar to you, take heart. Your makeup skills are probably not to blame – it’s more likely that your makeup lighting at home isn’t right – and it’s messing with your look.

Unfortunately, most standard bathroom lighting types aren’t a great help for flawless makeup. You might need to tweak the lighting set up at home to get it working for you instead of against you. This article will compare some of the common pitfalls of builder-grade lighting, and tell you exactly what you need to look for to upgrade your makeup space. 

Remember, the purpose of makeup lighting is to show your face as true as possible, so you know how the look will translate outside of your home.

NO: Windowless Rooms

Hopefully, your home was built with windows in the bathroom to help balance the lighting. However, if your bathroom doesn’t have a window and it’s not in your budget to install one, we recommend you get ready for the day by your bedroom or office window. Not only will this improve your makeup accuracy, but it will add dimension to the styling of your bedroom.

YES: Natural Light

Expert makeup artists all agree that natural light from the sun is the best light for doing makeup. If you can do your makeup facing a bright window, this is the best choice. However, many people do their makeup early in the morning or don’t have a windowed area suitable for makeup.

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NO: Fluorescent and Colored Lighting

Fluorescent Light

Everyone knows that fluorescent light is the most unflattering possible. While many spend days under fluorescent light in the office, it is typically offset by some natural light coming through windows. Bathrooms are often windowless, completely isolating the makeup artist in the worst lighting possible.

Yellow Light

While warm, yellow light could be soothing for a home spa experience, it exaggerates flaws in the mirror. The yellow glow will bring out yellow and green tones in your skin, often making you appear sickly or washed out when you aren’t. This effect commonly results in putting too much makeup in the wrong places and then looking cakey once you step out onto the street.

Pink Light

Pink or rosy light has the opposite effect of fluorescent and yellow light― it hides flaws! This might feel good while applying makeup, but you may notice that you failed to cover certain areas as soon as you get to the office.

YES: Warm White Light

Warm white light is the best artificial light for doing makeup. It most closely mimics the effect of the sun, so what you see in the mirror will match what everyone else sees in the office or at dinner. Many experts recommend backlighting your mirror with LEDs to achieve this effect.

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NO: Light From Above or Below

Kids love to make scary faces at sleepovers by shining a flashlight upwards from their chin. Overhead makeup light can create the same results (although not as dramatic). As the light shines down your face, it will naturally exaggerate certain features, like shadows under the brow, nose, and mouth. It can also catch more harshly on wrinkles. Once again, the results are too much makeup in the wrong places.

YES: “Face-forward” Light

“Face-forward” light shines directly towards your face rather than shining down on you. When your lighting is set up this way, it will reduce false shadows, making it easier to decide where to apply makeup. Many add LEDs around their mirror – it’s is an easy, inexpensive way to customize your makeup table and get the truest lighting for your look.

Pro Tip: If you’re renting and can’t replace your bathroom lights, a ring light is a solid option. They come in a wide range of prices and sizes, so it won’t be hard to find one that will fit both your counter and your budget. Position a smaller ring light around face height. Larger ring lights are designed for you to look through them, so the light shines on your face from all sides to eliminate shadows, as seen below:

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Kick that Crappy Lighting to the Curb

Replacing, or adding to, your bathroom lighting isn’t as difficult as it sounds. Swapping out an old fixture with a new one is a relatively simple project that won’t cost much to have done. It’s also very beginner DIY-friendly – most homeowners can do it on their own. (Just remember to turn off the breaker first!)

A simple lighting upgrade can totally transform your makeup experience, and give you the confidence to trust that what you see in the mirror at home will translate across to the rest of your day. Whether you have a full makeup studio or you’re sharing a small vanity with a partner, you’ll be surprised at how a small change can make such a big difference. 

If you want some help choosing the best lighting upgrade for your makeup area, stop by our showroom and take a look at the options we have available. You’ll be able to see for yourself how you look in different lighting, and our experts can help you find the right options to dress up your space. Stop by, or give Desert Lighting today for a free consultation! 

17 Beautiful Chandeliers to Suit Any Aesthetic

17 Beautiful Chandeliers to Suit Any Aesthetic

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Chandeliers are divas – they have to be the center of attention in any room they’re in. They are as versatile as they are dramatic – they come in all shapes and sizes and can be added to any design aesthetic. The right chandelier can make a room feel luxurious, moody, bright, rustic, modern, or anything in between. 

Because they make such a big statement, picking a chandelier that complements your decorations and personal style can be tricky at best. That’s why we’re here! These 17 interiors are from all over the interior design spectrum – but they are all feature gorgeous chandeliers that scream beauty, grace, and SEE ME IN MY SPACE! Enjoy.

1. Clean Farmhouse

This dark iron chandelier stands in stark contrast with the bright whites in the room and flawlessly ties the darker elements together. Its clean lines complement and balance the space perfectly.

2. Eclectic Haven

With other competing colors and patterns, this two-tiered chandelier is a much-needed focal point in this eclectic space.

3. Modern Home

In this room, soft round shapes are the star. This unique chandelier highlights the circles in the room, complementing the style.

4. Bohemian Paradise*

The macrame chandelier nestled above this claw-foot tub creates an unexpected and very relaxing environment to kick your feet up in.

5. Mid-Century Boho

This seating area’s chandelier ties in the boho elements of the room, while still staying true to the space’s mid-century origins.

6. Classic Elegance

The vintage elegance of this crystal chandelier gives this neutral dining room a perfect classic-modern balance. 

7. Rustic Beach Bedroom

The chandelier in this bedroom transforms the room from rustic to modern beach house with just a flick of a light switch (and, most likely, some professional installers). The brown against the distressed shiplap walls and ceiling stands out while still complementing the rustic style.

8. Vintage Breakfast Nook

Vintage crystal chandeliers like the one in this breakfast nook are timeless. In this light and airy space, the crystals reflect light, while the darker elements provide a much-needed focal point.

9. Colorful Mid-Century

The trendy pinks and golds of this room tie in perfectly with this modern gold globe chandelier. The light fixture adds warmth and levels up this living room.

10. Elegant Bathroom*

There’s no better way to bathe than in a bathroom that exudes modern comfort. The shape of this crystal and iron chandelier is classic, and its finish matches the black hardware on the cabinets—a perfect tie-in for this space.

11. Boho Loft

Even though the color on this chandelier is neutral, it’s still the highlight of this loft. The thought of laying in the hammock with the wooden beads above you just screams comfort (in the most chill way possible). Grab a good book and snuggle up with a blanket for ultimate relaxation.

12. Mid-Century Sitting Area

This stunning chandelier is the perfect counterpart to this incredibly unique space. The only thing we love more than this accent wall is these incredible dangling lights!

13. Intricate Entryway

This elegant hallway is elevated by ornate gold and crystal chandeliers. Each detail is chosen carefully, and it feels luxurious.

14. Luxurious Bath

This light and airy chandelier leaves this room feeling serene and tranquil–the perfect escape from the stress of everyday responsibilities.

15. Moody Sitting Room

This chandelier lightens up the dark walls and floor with just the right amount of light. It’s the perfect space to entertain guests, or simply unwind at the end of the day. 

16. Modern Cabin Loft

The warm wood accents in this space turn what would otherwise be a modern loft into a cozy cabin-esque retreat right at home. The chandelier hanging low above the conversation area makes this small space intimate and ties the modern and rustic elements together.

17. Stunning Centerpiece 

The last chandelier on our list holds nothing back. Its striking architectural lines draw the eye all the way up to the vaulted ceiling, really showcasing the size of the room. 

It’s not easy to compete with a wall-to-wall view of the ocean, but this chandelier commands your attention without even breaking a sweat. We’re impressed.

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Chandeliers can change the look and feel of any space. Ready to find the chandelier of your dreams? Give Desert Lighting a call!

 

*Some regulations may prohibit hanging lights over a bathtub. Be sure to check out local building codes and the National Electric Code before hanging any lights.

3 Ways to Maximize Your Space

3 Ways to Maximize Your Space

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Less is more with a small space, especially when you use what you have and buy intentionally. If you’re looking to use your space better or just go more minimalist, versatility is key. 

Not only is versatile design increasing in popularity (think tiny homes or vans converted to homes), it’s also better for the environment and your health. Researchers found those living a minimalist lifestyle experienced more positive emotions and a variety of “wellbeing benefits.” 

Investing in multi-use furniture, choosing more versatile lighting, and getting creative are 3 ways to use your space better so you can live with less and still feel like you have more.

1. Multipurpose Furniture

When you’re trying to create a more versatile space, the best place to start is furniture. Choose pieces that serve more than one purpose. Here are some ideas to create storage that will reduce clutter and the number of furniture pieces you’ll need.

Loft beds like this one give you double the space, allowing you to have a desk when you may not otherwise have room. You could also create a cozy setup like this!

If you have a larger bed, maximize your space using under-bed storage. Find a bed with drawers in the base or just use baskets (they serve the same purpose).

Benches are often underutilized pieces of furniture, but they shouldn’t be! They’re incredibly versatile and can go almost anywhere in your home. Have an unused wall or corner? Scour flea markets to find a bench. If it doesn’t have built-in storage, simply add a few baskets underneath for shoes, blankets, or other items.

This entryway setup creates a natural place for shoes and offers a place to sit while putting them on. Bonus: it’s small and would fit anywhere.

These wicker baskets act like an end-of-the-bed bench while also providing storage where you can tuck away extra pillows and blankets.

2. Choose Lighting that Creates Space

When you’re looking for other ways to make your home more versatile, upgrading your lighting is another quick and practical option. Changing up your lighting can save you space and make your room feel bigger. If you choose quality fixtures that last longer and use less energy, you’ll end up saving money in the long run, too.

Task lighting is essential in an office space. Ditch that desk lamp that’s taking valuable real estate on your work surface and find a flexible floor lamp that can be used as ambient lighting or as a reading lamp when you’re off the clock.

Instead of using a table lamp on your nightstand, consider hanging pendant lights above it instead! Visually, it creates space around your bed, making it look more open and airy. Plus, you’ll have more room for that stack of books you’re working on.

Small kitchen woes are no more with under-cabinet lighting. LED light strips are easy to stick on, and they’ll make your kitchen feel bigger and brighter. They also make your counter space more functional – nobody should be using a kitchen knife in the dark! 

Pro tip: Mirrors make your space look bigger! Place one near a window or a light fixture to reflect the light to create the illusion of a larger space.

3. Get Creative

Arguably the most important way to save space is to get creative! There are so many ways to use your space better, and there are lots of places to find inspiration. Look for wasted space in your home, and find design solutions that are versatile and solve multiple problems.

A common place to find wasted space is underneath the stairs. Getting it opened up and organized is a great way to get more bang for your buck. Drawers like these make use of every single square inch under the stairs! 

If drawers aren’t an option, find shallow shelving or hang hooks on the wall to create a space where you can throw all of those holiday decorations you only see for a month at a time. 

If your kitchen space is small and you’re short on storage options, put your empty corners and walls to work. This 3-tiered cart does double duty as a plant stand and extra kitchen storage. The wooden crates also double up – serving as both a decorative element and open shelving for larger kitchen items that would otherwise take up valuable cupboard space.

Another way to add visual interest while creating storage is hanging up floating shelves. Open shelves like these are a great place to put your favorite kitchen-wares on display where they can be easily found when it’s time for a mid-afternoon coffee break. 

Open shelving also works great in the bathroom. Use them to store bulky bath towels, or buy decorative baskets to hide away all of that countertop clutter when you’re not getting ready for the day.

Closet busting at the seams? Make your closet space work for you with organizing systems that save space, like these drawers and slide-out racks. 

Maximizing Your Space

This tiny home is a perfect example of these tips in action. The multi-use kitchen set can be folded away and used for extra guest seating. Natural light and interior lights combine to keep shadows at bay, making a small footprint feel open and airy. Creative storage options are tucked into every square inch. 

You don’t have to be making the most of a tiny apartment to take advantage of space-saving and space-creating design tips. Just remember – when you’re trying to maximize your space, everything you have counts. Make sure everything you have is intentional and serves at least one purpose – hopefully more!

To learn more about creative lighting solutions that will help you maximize your space, stop by Desert Lighting’s showroom! We’d love to chat and help you find what you need to get started.

3 Things You Need to Know About Recessed Lighting

3 Things You Need to Know About Recessed Lighting

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Recessed lights can radically change the way your home looks and feels. Done right, they can bathe your space in soft light, highlight special features, and help you set the right mood. Done wrong, they turn your ceiling into a polka-dotted nightmare of harsh spotlights and awkward shadows. So, how do you get it right? 

We’ve put together three of our top expert recessed lighting tips based on our years of experience in the lighting industry to help you get it just right! 

Installation Know-How

If you’re building or remodeling, now’s the best time to be thinking about recessed lights. Recessed lights are easiest to install during construction. With the walls opened up, it’s not a big deal for an electrician to run the necessary wires and mount the lights. 

If your home is already finished and you’re really not ready to tear out the ceiling, don’t despair! The recessed lighting industry makes a whole line of specialty lights designed for non-intrusive updates. Look for lights that say retro-fit in the product description – this means they can be more easily installed in an existing ceiling. Canless recessed lights are ultra-thin (the same thickness as your ceiling’s drywall), which makes installing them the most DIY-friendly option for homeowners.

Placement is Paramount

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when installing recessed lights is poor placement. Your recessed lights should wash your walls, not just the floor, with light. If your walls aren’t properly lit, your room will feel dim and dull no matter how your lights are installed. 

 

Wall washing spreads soft light evenly across a wall, and it will make your room feel bigger and more open. For example: the recessed lights in the image below (see upper left) cast soft light across the entire wall, which makes the room feel larger and brighter.

A close cousin, wall grazing (as seen below), occurs when recessed lights are placed close to the wall and the cone of light casts harsh lines of light and shadow. This is typically done to accent a design feature, not to provide ambient lighting for a room.

Wall washing is usually the goal in residential applications – it’s a good idea to talk to a lighting expert before you get ready to install to make sure you get them at the right distance from the wall.

A grid of soft white lights will give off a comfortable, all-over light, which is perfect for large rooms, but it’s not one-size-fits-all for every space in your home. Areas where you work, like your kitchen, should have more focused task lighting over countertops and work surfaces. 

Quick Tip: Space recessed lights away from ceiling fan blades or you’ll end up with a subtle strobing effect when both are on. Also, avoid placing bright lights directly over a seating area so that your guests won’t feel like they’re under a spotlight.

 

Zones and Dimmer Switches

Your lighting plan will be most effective if you can create zones based on how you use your space. Large spaces and multi-purpose rooms have different lighting needs throughout the space. If you strategically wire these areas independently, they can work together to give you more control over the way your room works for you. 

For example, a living room may have a row of wall-washing lights around the perimeter, a central grid of ambient lights, and a couple of spotlight lights to highlight a feature fireplace or some artwork. If each of these zones can be adjusted independently, you can transition a bright morning workspace to a cozy evening entertaining space with ease. 

Wherever possible, install each zone with a dimmer switch. Being able to adjust the intensity of light in your space is an essential part of creating the right mood. An added benefit of dimmable lights is that they last longer when not used at full power, so you can extend the life of your bulbs and entertain houseguests at the same time!

Installing recessed lighting is no small task, but it doesn’t have to be a big pain in the neck. Whether you’re a D.I.Y.er needing a few pointers, or if M.O.D.I.F.Y. is more your speed (Make Others Do It For You), we can help you find exactly what you need to get it done. Give us a call or stop by our showroom today!

 

Design Trend Inspo: 70s Retro Lighting

Design Trend Inspo: 70s Retro Lighting

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The bold prints, color pops, and unique shapes of the 70s are here again, and we can’t get enough! Modern takes on 70s design may be a little less harsh, but they still have plenty of the iconic warm colors, funky fixtures, and unexpected choices.

If you’re looking for fun ways to inject a little bit of personality into your home’s design, look no further than these adventurous, retro-inspired interiors!

Warm Colors

What could be more 70s than orange and green? While 1970s interiors were overwhelmed with avocado green, harvest gold, and burnt orange, today’s retro-inspired decor stays more neutral, bringing in pops of these retro colors with accent pieces throughout the space instead.

In this 70s-inspired living room, the orange lamps add a fun pop of color next to a mid-century style table and green couch. Paired with a neutral white wall and wood floor, the colors feel bright and fun without being overdone. 

These soft neutral creams and tans, combined with natural materials, set off this fun bright orange lamp in a way that perfectly balances modern and retro in one comfy space.

Pro Tip: If orange, tan, and green aren’t your thing – keep reading! There are a lot of other ways to incorporate this fun and unique style!

Geometric Silhouettes

Nothing says “style” like a unique lamp in a funky retro shape. These geometric designs create fun silhouettes, and they’ll go with anything!

Pendants lights were a permanent fixture of the 70s. These lantern-style pendants look like they could have been taken right out of the disco era! The calm, neutral color deftly balances out the busy, varied shapes and lines.

This curvy pendant light brings back the groovy vibes of the 70s, but with sleek modern finishes.

Some fixtures demand your attention the moment you enter the room, like this asymmetrical design that can’t help but be noticed. The round curve at the top is also a trademark of 70s decor. 

Domed Tops

Rounded tops scream “retro”. Finding fixtures with a domed shape is a great way to add a subtle touch of retro to any room.

This cream table lamp’s rounded metal shade gives off subtle 70s retro vibes without distracting from the calm, neutral design. 

These domed silver pendants bring an unexpected mix of modern and retro designs to this otherwise very neutral space. Their curves help to balance out all of the harsh straight architectural lines in this space to make it feel more welcoming. 

This domed top is easy to find in a wide variety of fixtures from lamps to pendants – and in a wide range of colors and finishes. You’re sure to be able to find one that matches your room while giving a subtle nod to the 70s. 

Pro Tip: Domed fixtures don’t need to be basic. Don’t be afraid to look for unique designs and textures that match your space! 

Modern Twists

One trick to finding 70s-inspired lighting is to find fixtures that incorporate retro and modern touches in the same piece. 

These modern pendants give a slight nod to the 70s, but live in 2022. Their modern, sharp lines and matte black color are right at home in this minimalist earth-toned room, while their retro, curvy, geometric shapes warm up the space. 

These retro-inspired pendants have a modern industrial vibe. The brushed metallic gray tones complement the cool green decor, and their unique shape and design are a great conversation starter! 

This bold pink room carefully balances several modern and retro elements, which makes this rounded pendant in a bright, modern pink finish a perfect fit.

Think Outside of the Box

Outside-the-box thinking is another hallmark of 70s style. Retro-inspired lighting often includes using lights in a different or unexpected way. 

This wall has all the 70s colors and shapes we know and love. Neon lights give off a strong retro ambiance – but they can break easily. Modern takes on this trend use LED lights, which last much longer. 

This unusual fixture is another perfect example of thinking outside of the box. We love how this light’s unique shape and placement make an understated yet bold addition to the room. (Anyone else want to relax here with a good book?)

Pro Tip: Don’t let the fear of making a design mistake stop you from taking a risk! Some of the best designs happen when you’re willing to let go of convention and try something new!

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One of our favorite things about 70s Retro Design is that there’s something for everyone. From the bold, funky, and adventurous maximalist to the subtly nostalgic minimalist, anyone can spice up their home with a little bit of 70s funk! 

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Ready to join the disco-lovers of the past? Stop by our showroom or give us a call to see what retro-inspired lighting can do for your home!

9 Solutions for Your Dark Closet Problems

9 Solutions for Your Dark Closet Problems

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Did you know that a quality walk-in closet is in the top five sought-after features in homebuyers? An inviting walk-in includes a clean space with plenty of light and storage.

Lighting is a powerful design element, and it’s especially important in small spaces. Average closets typically have one light source in the middle of the ceiling. Closets like this can feel smaller than they are, dated, cluttered, and even dusty. Great lighting, however, makes a closet feel inviting, up-to-date, intentional, and extravagant.

An impactful closet “lightscape” doesn’t necessarily require a large amount of money or professional work. Below are easy tips and tricks to making a walk-in closet feel like a million bucks on any budget.

1. Layer Lighting

When designing any space, it’s a good idea to think about light in layers. Using a variety of light sources makes the space feel intentional and adds functionality. Map out the closet and think about which lighting elements would make the most impact. Remember, there’s no such thing as too much light!

A few good questions to ask are:

  • How many different light sources will the space need?
  • Can you incorporate natural light?
  • What is the existing hardwiring footprint?
  • Will this be a DIY project, or will the budget allow for professional help?
  • What is the desired feel? Cozy, bright, elegant, modern?
  • What materials and finishes will pull the lighting and space together?

2. Ceiling lighting

A great place to start the closet upgrade is replacing the ceiling light fixture.A simple, upgraded flush-mount fixture with extra bulbs can really make a huge difference – all of that extra light will make your closet feel bigger, plus it’ll be easier to find what you need. 

Swapping out a ceiling light is a relatively simple DIY because is uses the existing wiring. Your new light will come with an installation guide to walk you through how to set it up – just make sure you turn off the breaker first! 

While most closets have a simple low-profile ceiling light – there’s no rule that says you have to do that in your closet! You don’t have to save the fancy light fixtures for the places your guests will see! A statement light fixture can set the tone for the style in your closet, it’s a great place to have a little fun! A soft and elegant chandelier? Maybe an edgy modern light fixture? Be it be colored, metallic, rustic, crystal, or anything in between, the possibilities are endless!

3. Shelf lighting

Shelf lighting adds sophistication to the space and increases the utility. LED strip or track lights are excellent for highlighting shelves. Upgrade the shelves through decluttering, updating storage containers, and sprucing up shelf decor.

LED strips are an excellent option for dressing up the dressing room. LED strips are relatively cheap and can come in a variety of colors. Colored lights instantly transform the closet without spending time or money on paint! LED strips can be battery-powered or hardwired,  so professional help may not be required. They have a low running temperature, so they won’t burn or damage clothes.

4. Natural Light

Natural light can make a walk-in feel like a room instead of a closet! You just feel better in a room with natural light, so adding a window to the place where you get ready will definitely make your time there more enjoyable. Adding a window does require professional work, but you’ll likely see some of that cost back with an increased home value. 

Struggling to find a suitable wall to add a window? Think outside the box with a skylight or a row of narrow windows at the top of the wall!

5. Hidden Lights 

Hidden lights can take any ho-hum closet and make it feel like a high-end custom installation. The best part is – this closet lighting hack is so simple and affordable! Battery-powered puck lights or LED strips can be tucked under a low shelf, out of view on the top shelf, or behind built-ins. 

These lights may be small, but they make a big impact by reflecting light off the walls, floor, or ceiling. The reflections create an illusion of space, which will make any closet feel bigger and classier. 

For a battery-free version – give us a call and we’ll help you find what you need to create a hardwired experience that you can flip on and off with a light switch. You might need to hire an electrician to run the wiring, but you won’t ever have to worry about replacing or recharging.

6. Lumens and Hue

The quality of the light in a room will dramatically impact the way it feels. Take at the brightness and color of the light in your closet – not all bulbs and fixtures are equal!

Lumens measure the brightness of a bulb. Bright light (around 100 lumens) allows for the true colors of clothes and accessories to shine. Dimmer bulbs are useful for mood lighting or highlights.

A bulb’s hue refers to its color, most often as yellow or white light. Yellow light feels softer on the eyes and creates a romantic mood. White light helps the brain to be alert and pay attention.

Closets can use a mix of lumens and hues. A mirror or vanity are great places for bright, white light, where it is important to see the true color. Collectibles might look best under warmer, softer light, gently highlighting them.

7. Spotlights

A great way to showcase a collection of purses, shoes, or watches is by having dedicated lighting. LED strips, puck lights, or even hardwire new little lamps are effective options. Little lights give collectibles the attention they deserve and immediately customize the space.

Now that your collection is out of the dark, you can enjoy it any time!

8. Go Green

We’ve talked a lot about LED strip lights (pictured here), but there are several other LED options that make for a great choice in your closet’s ceiling and wall fixtures! 

No matter your aesthetic, LED bulbs are always a great choice for closets. They are energy efficient, which cuts down on the utility bill, and they last much longer than other lightbulbs. LEDs also produce very little heat, so they’re a safer choice to have near your clothing.

The technology has come a long way on these – some bulbs are motion-sensing, making your walk-in light up at your presence. Others are smart-home enabled, so you can control them with an app and set a schedule. There are even ceiling lights that have LEDs fully integrated, so you’ll never replace a bulb for the life of the fixture.

9. Get Help from the Pros

Closet design can be overwhelming. A lighting professional can be a great asset when planning and carrying out an upgrade! We can help you hone in on the most important elements to create the perfectly-lighted closet of your dreams.

Ready to get started on your dream closet? We’ll connect you with the pros who can guide you through the process. Our showroom offers a great selection of bulbs and fixtures, and our lighting experts can help you find the best lighting solutions to make your dreams a reality.

 

Homeowner’s Guide to Backyard Lighting

Homeowner’s Guide to Backyard Lighting

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Whether it’s a quiet family dinner or a formal party, the backyard can be a perfect hosting space. Kids have room to run around, hosts can invite more people, and no one has to vacuum at the end of the night. But when the sun starts to set – you’ll want to have thought ahead about how you can keep the party going without having to move inside.

Before you get started, take a minute to think about how what purpose your lights need to serve. Your outdoor lighting should be intentional and useful, not just a hodge-podge of tiki torches and solar-powered spikes. Balance is important – the right lighting will make your yard cozy and inviting. Not enough light and you’ll be tripping in the dark, too much light and it can create disorienting shadows, or lead to complaints from neighbors.

To help you get it just right, we’ve put together a few tips and tricks to help you put together your next backyard BBQ.

Stair and Floor Lights

The deck or patio area is central for meals or small-group gatherings. One popular approach to deck lighting is using stair lights. Not only are they elegant, but they also provide an important safety feature. They light the space gently without being distracting, and they make steps easy to see in the dark.

You can also install smaller lights on the floor of your deck. These lights can help brighten up corners and can also make your space safe when it’s dark outside.

Recessed Patio Lights

On covered decks and patios, recessed lights are a great option. They’re installed up inside the ceiling, so they’ll be well-protected from the elements. From a design standpoint – they’re the perfect choice to provide your patio with even all-over light that doesn’t get in the way of the view of your backyard. Make sure you double-check before you buy, not all recessed lights are rated for outdoor use.

String Lights

String lights are wildly popular – and for good reason. They are fast and easy to put up, and their effect is magical no matter where you put them! You can attach them to the exterior of your house, a deck railing, or anything tall enough to set them up overhead.

If you don’t have a patio or deck area, they can be strung on posts around a firepit, along a fence, or even in the trees and bushes surrounding your entertaining space.

Landscaping Lighting

You can use landscape lighting to show off the best features of your yard, even after the sun has gone down. Just like stair lighting, landscape lights are multi-functional as a design element and a safety feature. Many people opt for solar-powered lights to brighten walkways and highlight design features, but you can also hire an electrician to hardwire these lighting elements to a light switch you can flip on and off from the comfort of your patio.

There are countless shapes and sizes of landscape light fixtures to choose from. You may want to consult with an expert to recommend what will work for your yard space. However, there are a few general principles to keep in mind:

  1. Don’t overdo it. Landscape lighting isn’t meant to mimic daytime, it should create just enough light to make the yard inviting at night.
  2. Consider safety. Lighting pathways is a must if you’re using your backyard after dark – but make sure you do it safely. Keep lights out of the way of where you’re walking so that they don’t become trip hazards. Motion-sensor lights near doors and on sheds are also an important safety feature that can deter theft.
  3. Choose your colors. White / daylight light will show colors just as they are during the day, but they can be pretty harsh. Yellow / warm / soft white light will give your yard a more cosy and relaxing feel, and it attracts fewer bugs.
  4. Timers are your friend. If you’re planning a one-time party it’s not a big deal to flip the switch on and off, but if you’ll be in your backyard daily, consider putting your outdoor lights on a timer so that you won’t have to remember to flip them off before bed.
  5. Look into LED. These bulbs may cost more upfront, but they’ll last much longer and use far less energy.

Your Backyard Plan

Desert Lighting’s showroom offers a great selection of outdoor lighting options, and our lighting experts would love to help you plan your backyard entertaining space and find exactly what you need. Stop by our showroom and see it for yourself, or check us out online and we’ll help you get started.