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Styles & Trends

Brighten Up Your Outdoor Spaces: Exploring Light Bulb Color Temperatures

Brighten Up Your Outdoor Spaces: Exploring Light Bulb Color Temperatures

by admin · Feb 26, 2025

As the sun sets and the world dims, outdoor lighting takes center stage. Lighting is a powerful tool that can beautify and protect your most precious spaces – your yard and home exterior included! And one important thing to consider when illuminating your outdoor areas is the color temperature of your light bulbs.

In this blog post, we’ll talk about outdoor lighting and go over the best light bulb color temperatures you can use to enhance the beauty, functionality, and safety of your outdoor spaces. 

The Basics: Color Temperature

Color temperature is a measurement that describes the appearance of light coming from a light bulb. It is measured in degrees of Kelvin (K) and uses a scale between 1000K to 10000K, with the majority of residential bulbs being between 2000K-6500K. Light bulb temperature determines whether the light appears warm or cool. Warm light has a lower temperature (around 2200K to 3000K), while cool light has a higher temperature (around 5000K to 6500K). Generally, 2000K-3000K is the sweet spot for most outdoor lighting situations as bulbs in this range give off a soft white, almost yellow, glow. But there are some situations where other temperature ranges work better. 

Fast Fact: The color of the natural light changes throughout the day. At midday, the light outside on a sunny day has a Kelvin temperature of around 5000K. Dawn and dusk have much warmer temperatures, around 3500K. This is one reason why you’ll see often see exterior lighting in warmer colors – it feels more natural to have lighting that mimics dusk than midday when enjoying a late evening outside.

So, let’s chat about some different areas of outdoor lighting!

Entryways: Inviting Warmth

Your entryway is the first impression guests have of your home. To create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, choose light bulbs with a color temperature of around 2700K to 3000K. Soft white or warm white bulbs work best here, giving off a cozy glow. Consider using wall sconces or pendant lights that diffuse the light for a softer and more inviting ambiance. It also looks great (and improves safety) to light the pathway/sidewalk leading up to your entry with a similar warm white light. 

Patio Spaces: Versatile Lighting

Patios serve many purposes, so it’s important to have versatile lighting options. You can get creative and use different types of lighting and light bulb colors to set the mood you want. For intimate gatherings, dimmable LED bulbs with a warm color temperature (2700K-3500K) can create a relaxed and cozy atmosphere. You could also hang some strand lights above the space to provide some ambiance. For lively outdoor parties, you can play around with colored bulbs to add a playful touch.

Outdoor Fireplaces/Kitchens: Cozy and Functional

Outdoor fireplaces and kitchens are perfect for entertaining and spending time with loved ones. In these areas, you need a balance between functionality and ambiance. For task lighting in outdoor kitchens, use cool white light bulbs (around 4000K to 5000K) to ensure clear visibility while cooking. To create a cozy and inviting atmosphere around the fireplace, choose warm white bulbs (around 2200K to 2700K). These add a touch of warmth and comfort that won’t be distracting. 

Security Lighting: Bright and Deterrent

Security lighting is important for the safety of you, your family, and your guests and goes a long way to deterring potential intruders. Properly lighting your pathways and stairs allows easy navigation of your property and minimizes any dark areas. Choose bright white light bulbs with a color temperature of 5000K to 6500K. These bulbs emit a cool white light that provides maximum visibility and clear surveillance. Consider installing motion sensor lights in strategic locations around your home, including entry and exit points and around sheds and other storage areas, to enhance security and discourage trespassing.

Pro Tip: Bright white refers to a light bulb’s color, not the amount of light it gives off. Bright white bulbs come in a variety of strengths, measured in Lumens, from dim to blinding. For security purposes, bright white bulbs with a high Lumen count are generally the best way to go. 

Landscape Lighting: Enhancing Beauty

Well-planned landscaping spotlights can transform your outdoor space. Use light bulbs with a color temperature of around 3000K to highlight the natural beauty of your plants and decor elements. This warm white light creates texture and adds depth to your landscape. Experiment with different angles and intensities to achieve an eye-catching outdoor lighting display.

Outdoor lighting can be just as important as indoor lighting. Choosing the best outdoor lighting color temperature depends on what you are looking to illuminate and the look you are trying to achieve. Beauty, functionality, and safety should be your goals. 

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Need help coming up with some bright ideas for improving your property’s outdoor lighting? The experts at Western Chandelier are happy to meet with you to bring your vision to life!

 

Filed Under: 2024, Outdoor Lights

5 Styles of Exterior Lighting to Try in 2024

5 Styles of Exterior Lighting to Try in 2024

by admin · Jan 1, 2025

Exterior lighting serves as much a practical purpose as an aesthetic one. It lights the way after nightfall and even deterring criminal activity. And style-wise, outdoor lighting has come a long way! If you’ve hesitated to upgrade your lighting because you’re not sure where to start, we’ve got a few recommendations for beautiful, functional lighting styles that will elevate the curb appeal and outdoor living spaces of your home.

Here are 5 styles of exterior lighting fixtures you should consider for your home in 2024.

Outdoor Pendants

The pandemic brought a lot more of our lives outside, and we’re pleased that even post-COVID, we’re still enjoying meals and family time in the fresh air. Pendant lights bring a finished feel to outdoor dining and living spaces, making them more appealing for everything from a dinner party to a quiet night reading your favorite novel. A woven pendant feels casual and coastal, while a lantern-style metal and glass pendant is ideal in more traditional or rustic homes.

Exterior Sconces and Lanterns

Nothing says “curb appeal” like one (or a pair) of classic exterior sconces flanking your front door making your home’s portico look welcoming and warm as the sun goes down. 

Adding a motion detector switch turns a beautiful sconce into a security measure for your home.  It ensures the light switches on and illuminates your front porch when anyone approaches. This helps avoid tripping injuries, and can deter theft and break ins – keeping your family safe without the need for expensive cameras. Rustic, modern, and minimalist options abound, so there’s no doubt you’ll find one that works for your decor style.

Sconces aren’t limited to the front stoop, either! They work great on any exterior wall to bathe a space in light and add a chic touch.

Outdoor Ceiling Fans

Even when the peak of summer has come and gone, it’s never too early to plan for the warm days ahead. Exterior ceiling fans can circulate air to keep you cool on even the hottest days. They can help keep flying pests at bay, and are safe for kids and seniors who might trip over bulky floor fans or hazardous cords. Installing a fan is a complicated task best left to an experienced electrician – be sure to ask a lighting specialist for recommendations!

In recent years, ceiling fans have gone from practical eyesore to beautiful, useful fixtures. A minimalist design can blend right into your exterior deck ceiling, or you can go big and bold with a statement fan that’s as eye-catching as it is beneficial. 

Pro Tip: Ceiling fans aren’t just for hot months! Paired with an outdoor fireplace or fire pit, they can help circulate warmer air, keeping you cozy for outdoor movie nights or snuggling under the stars. 

String Lighting

String lights, also known as cafe lights, continue to be popular with homeowners, for good reason! They’re affordable, versatile, and create a magical ambiance in any outdoor space. Strung from trees, porches, and across pools, they make even the most mundane evening activities feel a little more special. Look for high quality, wet-rated outdoor lights from a reputable brand to ensure that they’ll stand the test of time.

Recessed Lighting

If you believe firmly in the “less is more” axiom when it comes to exterior lighting, outdoor recessed lights might be the perfect choice for you! This style of light blends seamlessly with your exterior ceilings (and even floors!) for practical illumination that requires very little maintenance. 

Like the look of recessed lighting, but don’t want the hassle of in-ceiling installation? Several brands offer low profile lights that can be fitted into existing light electrical boxes, saving you money and time. 

Recessed lights can also be use together with more decorative pendants or sconces to give your statement pieces room to shine while also ensuring that your exterior spaces will be well-lit for any activity or event.

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Having quality exterior lights on your home isn’t just a matter of showing off for the neighbors. Attractive, practical exterior lighting expands your square footage, creating more living space for your family to enjoy all year long. It’ll improve curb appeal, deter crime, and keep your friends and family safe long into the evening hours. What more can you ask for? 

Still overwhelmed by the options? Stop by our showroom to talk to one of our lighting experts. We’ll help you find beautiful lighting for your outdoor spaces – without the hassle of spending hours of time online researching, only to put it off for another day. You don’t have to wait to make your home look great, we’ll help you get started today!

Filed Under: 2024, Outdoor Lights

Embracing Nature: Illuminating Offices with Biophilic Design

Embracing Nature: Illuminating Offices with Biophilic Design

by admin · Dec 4, 2024

Walking along the beach, hiking a mountain trail, perusing a park, floating a river. Whatever your favorite method, there’s just something about the way that spending time outside in nature can make a person feel more at ease and centered. But, in the hustle and bustle of modern office life, a harmonious connection with nature often takes a backseat. However, as we strive to create healthier and more productive work environments, the concept of biophilic design is gaining significant traction. Imagine an office space that not only exudes elegance through its lighting but also seamlessly integrates elements from the natural world. Welcome to the realm of biophilic design, where offices are transformed into vibrant, invigorating spaces that blur the lines between indoors and outdoors.

The Biophilic Approach

Biophilic design is more than just a buzzword; it’s a philosophy that centers around human beings’ innate connection with nature. The term itself originates from “biophilia,” a concept coined by biologist E.O. Wilson to describe the inherent affinity humans have for the natural world. Biophilia is more than just an eco-friendly trend, it’s seen in all aspects of our life. People pay top dollar to live in homes that are near the ocean or a lake, that have an incredible view of the mountains or other scenery. Even in the heart of an urban city, the most coveted workspaces are always the corner office with a view – the need to connect with nature is in our DNA.

In the context of office spaces, studies have shown that biophilic design can improve cognitive performance, reduce stress, and increase perceived productivity. biophilic design seeks to integrate nature-inspired elements, such as natural light, indoor plants, flowing water, and earthy materials, into the architectural and interior design. It’s not quite as simple as adding a fake tree to the corner of your office space – it’s about finding ways to make you feel more connected to or in balance with nature while you’re there. 

Natural Light

Lighting is a cornerstone of biophilic design. Natural light is not only energy-efficient but also has numerous benefits for employee well-being. It regulates the circadian rhythm, boosts mood, and enhances productivity. When incorporating natural light into office spaces, consider large windows that allow ample daylight to flood the interiors. Take advantage of your view – simply making sure any plants or trees outside your windows can be seen from inside will enhance the design of your office space with minimal effort.

When altering windows isn’t an option, consider choosing window treatments that allow natural light to enter where possible. Use mirrors or reflective surfaces in strategic places to help reflect natural light throughout the space. 

Artificial Light

Complement your natural light with adjustable artificial lighting that mimics the changing qualities of natural light throughout the day. Choose light fixtures made from natural materials and have organic shapes. Consider making the swap to LED. LED bulbs are energy efficient, and they come in a wide range of colors that mimic natural light. Smart LED bulbs can be programmed to change throughout the day to help create a more natural feeling in the office than you can achieve with fluorescent tubes.

Indoor Greenery

Plants have a remarkable ability to purify the air and infuse spaces with a sense of vitality. Including greenery in the office doesn’t just serve an aesthetic purpose; it also promotes cleaner air, reduces stress, and improves concentration. Vertical gardens, potted plants, and hanging planters can transform sterile office corners into lush oases, contributing to a more relaxed and creative atmosphere. Not all plants are created equal – be sure to choose varieties that will flourish in their location in the office, taking into account the natural light and care requirements.

While natural plants are always best, they can be difficult to keep in some office spaces due to light or care requirements. In these situations, high-quality artificial plants can help to fill out the space. Try mixing them in with live plants to get the same look with less maintenance.

Organic Materials

The materials used in office interiors play a vital role in biophilic design. Wood, stone, and other natural textures evoke a tactile connection to the environment. Incorporating these materials into furniture, flooring, and decor elements can instill a sense of warmth and grounding. Such an environment fosters a feeling of comfort and tranquility, helping employees feel more connected to their workspace.

Look for practical ways to upgrade what you have – opt for wood furniture rather than wood veneers, ceramic over plastic pots for plants, stone tile over vinyl, natural fabrics over synthetics, etc.

Water Features

The soothing sound of flowing water has a mesmerizing effect that can elevate the office experience. Incorporating water features, such as indoor fountains or reflecting pools, can contribute to a sense of calmness and serenity. The gentle sounds of water can also mask unwanted noises, creating a more peaceful working environment.

Not all fountains are created equal – keep the overall soundscape of your office in mind. A noisy fountain in a small space will cause sensory overload for employees rather than boost moods.

Soundscape

In the realm of biophilic design, sound is a vital piece of nature-infused workspaces. The soft murmur of indoor fountains and cascading water walls can soothe and enhance focus, while subtle nature soundtracks can help foster creativity. It’s all about striking a balance, blending work-related noises with nature-inspired sounds, and creating an environment where tranquility and functionality can coexist seamlessly.

Thoughtful acoustic design will refine the soundscape by managing noise levels. Use sound-absorbent materials throughout the office to minimize echoes and avoid sound overlap that can drown out important conversations or interrupt a creative process. One of the most common complaints of workers in an office environment is noise levels – so fine-tune your soundscape carefully to achieve a good balance for each section of your workspace.

Creating Balance

Biophilic design emphasizes nature, but it’s crucial to remember that the main focus isn’t just to bring the outside in – it’s to create balance. You can’t just fill an office with plants and call it a day – the key is to strike a balance between natural and technological elements. Remember to pay attention to the less visible environmental elements as well – look into integrating technology for air quality monitoring and humidity control to ensure that the indoor environment remains comfortable and healthy. 

Biophilic design represents a paradigm shift in how we perceive office spaces. By merging the principles of nature with innovative lighting solutions, interior design, and sustainable materials, we can craft work environments that prioritize human well-being and productivity. As we embrace the concept of biophilia, we move closer to a future where offices aren’t just places of work but also sanctuaries of inspiration and vitality. So, let nature’s light shine through your office windows, and watch your workspace transform into a biophilic marvel.

Remember, at Western Chandelier, we’re passionate about creating lighting solutions that align with the principles of biophilic design. Step into our showroom to discover a world where technology and nature coexist in perfect harmony, illuminating the path to a greener, more inviting office space.

Filed Under: 2024, Styles & Trends

20 Stylish Ways to Incorporate Oversized Pendant Lighting in Your Home

20 Stylish Ways to Incorporate Oversized Pendant Lighting in Your Home

by admin · Sep 18, 2024

In this post, we invite you to explore 20 eye-catching rooms, each featuring unique, oversized pendant lighting. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for a home makeover or simply appreciate beautiful interior design, this photo collection will ignite your creativity and leave you ready to illuminate your own living spaces with incredible statement lighting.

But first, what exactly is a pendant light? 

Pendant lights are fixtures hung from the ceiling that generally feature one light bulb (unlike a chandelier which features multiple bulbs). Pendant lights have been most commonly used in kitchens, but the recent increase in available styles means these lights are making their way to every room of the home – and we’re here for it! 

Oversized pendants can make a bold statement in a small space, or help to create balance in a large space. While the definition of “oversized” varies, it’s generally used to describe pendants measuring 16” or more wide. Oversized pendants are popular for good reason – fit into any design style, and create a gorgeous focal point in a space. 

Without further ado, let’s tour 20 beautiful spaces featuring oversized, statement pendant lighting. We hope you find some inspiration for your own spaces!

Make a bold statement in your kitchen with an industrial-inspired oversized metal pendant light like the one hanging above this beautiful kitchen island. This fixture combines a utilitarian look with an urban style that blends in seamlessly with many types of home decor.

 

Take inspiration from this ultra-modern, monochromatic kitchen by grouping three ultra-oversized pendant lights above your kitchen island. These glossy black pendants seamlessly blend into modern decor and provide a striking focal point that highlights the high ceilings. 

Set the mood in your kitchen or dining space with a pair of oversized pendants featuring a double-layer cage design and brushed brass hardware. These striking fixtures would take center stage in any space you hang them, especially if you put them on a dimmer. 

Illuminate your kitchen with elegant, minimalist oversized dome lights. The golden interior of these fixtures warms up any space, which is exactly what this white and gray kitchen needed. 

The clean, simple lines of these large cone-shaped pendants create a dramatic focal point for this open floor plan kitchen and dining area. Choosing a light fixture finish (such as the matte black seen in this photo) that matches your kitchen hardware creates a cohesive look that harmonizes the space.

Dramatic rooms demand dramatic lighting! This expansive living room, filled with art and an ample amount of natural light, just wouldn’t pack the same punch without the oversized, textural pendant light hanging from the high ceiling. 

Pendant lights are a great way to define different spaces in your home. This geometric wire pendant fixture adds an instant focal point and visual appeal to an otherwise understated living room. 

Create a seamless blend of nature and comfort in your casual living area with a nature-inspired, bamboo pendant. The collection of organic elements, such as the plants, wood accents, and relaxed lighting creates a soothing and inviting atmosphere.

A woven, black rattan pendant adds a relaxed vibe to this bohemian living room and creates a focal point that works wonderfully with the other decor pieces in the room. Even a seemingly simple piece can really pack a visual punch.

Hanging oversized pendant lights helps to fill the vertical space in this relaxed, modern living room. The scale of these fixtures command attention and make the room feel more complete and well-proportioned. If you’re lucky enough to have high ceilings in your home, consider hanging pendant lights to create a great sense of balance. 

This duo-tone contemporary dining room is brought together with a simple yet striking black metal pendant light. The unique lines of the table and chairs play well with a low-hanging light. This mix of black finishes and wood is a classic design trick that gives rustic warmth to a space with a modern edge.

When a room has a lot going on – like this dining room that features a floor-to-ceiling bookcase, glass door, and colorful chairs – utilizing a simple light fixture is often the way to go. The oversized and understated white shade on this pendant is the perfect fit to tie everything together. Sometimes your lighting needs to take a back seat to your decor and that’s perfectly fine.

Make a bold design statement in your entryway with a large sculptural pendant light, showcasing an eye-catching silhouette that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who sees it! While this oversized pendant might feel overpowering in some spaces, it looks perfectly suited for this vaulted stairwell. 

Add a touch of bold style to any room with a large pendant featuring a geometric shape. A fixture of this type works especially well in an industrial, modern space with clean lines and where decor is at a minimum. Although, when  the fixture itself becomes an artistic decor piece, it’ll fit into any art lover’s decor.

It’s all about the curves in this chic and elegant bedroom. The pastel-colored dome pendant breaks the mold with an unexpected punch of color, and its shape mimics the arches of the headboard. 

This large, textured pendant pairs well with a bold wallpaper in this primary bedroom. Including unexpected materials and patterns in your bedroom can help to draw visual interest and elevate the space.

This free-spirited, earthy bedroom brings a touch of nature indoors with organic-inspired, oversized rattan pendant lights to infuse the space with a warm and inviting ambiance.

Don’t be afraid to mix several styles and materials of light fixtures in one space – such as seen here in this farmhouse-style bathroom. The woven, oversized rattan sphere pendant contrasts beautifully with the more modern metal pendants suspended above the sinks and countertop.

Turn your primary bathroom into a spa-like retreat with the sleek and modern design of this oversized yet understated pendant light, adding a touch of refined glamor and creating a tranquil, spa-like oasis. 

Transform your children’s toy room into an adorable wonderland with this grouping of pendant lights, featuring a fun domed shape and pastel colors that inspire imagination and play. Children’s bedrooms and play spaces are a wonderful place to feature fun lighting pieces!

As we wrap up our exploration of these beautiful spaces featuring oversized pendant lighting, it’s clear that these fixtures have the power to showcase your personal style and create a focal point for your spaces. From kitchens and living rooms to dining areas and even bedrooms, oversized pendant lighting can be the perfect finishing touch that ties the room together. So, don’t be afraid to think big and incorporate this stunning lighting option into your next design project.

For expert advice on how you can incorporate unique and eye-catching pendant lighting throughout your own home, give Western Chandelier a call today!

Filed Under: 2024, Styles & Trends

Elevate Your Home: Embracing the Latest Interior Design Trends

Elevate Your Home: Embracing the Latest Interior Design Trends

by admin · Aug 28, 2024

In the fast-evolving world of interior design, staying up-to-date with the latest trends can feel like a full-time job. It can be hard to tell which trends are here to stay, and which ones will be gone by next month.  Here are seven long-lasting trends that have been making waves in the world of home interiors.

1. Sustainable Design: A Green Revolution

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore – it’s become a way of life. Homeowners are basing their designs on sustainability for a number of reasons, ranging from a sense of responsibility to future generations to wanting a lower energy bill each month. Sustainable design doesn’t have to be an eyesore, the goal is to create a home that’s both eco-conscious and elegant. 

Sustainable design involves choosing materials and products that have a reduced impact on the environment. It’s about choosing quality over quantity, glass over plastic, repair over replace,  and homemade or home grown over convenience. These shifts in purchasing decisions also help to promote ethical production practices and encourage the production of energy-efficient technologies.

It’s easy to get lost in a spiral of internet research, trying to determine which products are best (and worst) for the environment. We always encourage learning, but it’s also important to remember that you don’t have to know it all before you can act. The easiest way to start thinking more sustainably is to find ways to reuse and repurpose. Opt for reclaimed wood for your furniture (or refinish a thrifted piece), choose items made from renewable materials, and repurpose rather than throw out your home decor items when you’re ready for a change. 

Beyond the environmental benefits, sustainable design is also about creating a healthier environment for you and your family. It reduces exposure to harmful chemicals found in many traditional building materials. Choosing energy-efficient building materials makes it easier and less expensive to keep your home comfortable year-round. Additionally, indoor plants, a popular element of sustainable decor, improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your interior.

One of the easiest ways to make your home more sustainable is to invest in energy-efficient appliances and light fixtures. Appliances and fixtures that use less power are better for both the environment and your power bill each month. Replace old light bulbs with LEDs, and look for the Energy Star logo when buying new fixtures.

2. Embracing Maximalism: Where More is More

In a departure from the ubiquitous minimalist trend, its opposite, maximalism, has taken the interior design world by storm. Maximalism is all about embracing the bold, the vibrant, and the extravagant. Think rich colors, intricate patterns, and an abundance of decor elements. In a maximalist space, every inch is an opportunity to showcase your unique style and personality.

Gone are the days of strict simplicity; maximalism encourages you to fill your space with the things you love, creating a sensory feast for the eyes. Layering textures, mixing patterns, and displaying collections are key elements of this trend. It’s about celebrating your passions and curiosities, resulting in a home that feels rich, warm, and incredibly inviting.

Incorporating maximalism into your home allows you to tell a story through your decor. It’s an opportunity to showcase your travels, your interests, and your love for art and culture. Don’t shy away from combining bold colors, ornate furniture, and eclectic accessories. Embrace the challenge of balancing diverse elements to create a cohesive, visually stunning environment.

3. Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature Indoors

We live in an age defined by urban living and digital connectivity, but this is relatively new in the history of humanity. For thousands of years, we relied on living in harmony with our environment to survive. In a sea of high rises and work-from-home offices, we’ve lost our connection to the thing that our species has relied on for millennia. In fact, our innate craving for a connection with nature has only intensified, which is the driving force behind a significant rise in biophilic design.

Biophilic design isn’t just adding plants to make a room “look outdoorsy”. It’s about creating a space that promotes wellness and tranquility by giving all of your senses a reminder of the outside world. Imagine the gentle rustle of leaves, the soothing sound of flowing water, or the warmth of sunlight on your skin  – these elements create a sensory experience that resonates with our primal instincts, reducing stress and increasing overall happiness. 

To add a touch of biophilic design to your home, consider incorporating natural materials into your decor, like wood, stone, ceramics, and natural fibers such as cotton, jute, wool, or silk. You can introduce the sounds of the outside with an indoor fountain gently trickling water or a well-placed speaker playing subtle, soothing nature sounds. You can add natural scents to your home with fragrant plants such as lavender or jasmine, or a scented candle.

One of the key principles of biophilic design is maximizing natural light. Sunlight brightens up your space and provides essential vitamin D, which is crucial for mental and physical health. If your home is short on windows, using strategically placed mirrors can help to reflect natural light deeper into your home.For the darker evenings and mornings, invest in quality LED bulbs that can mimic natural daylight, which will give your home lighting a more comfortable and natural glow. Avoid using cool-toned light bulbs in the rooms that you use in the evenings, as the can disrupt your circadian rhythm. 

For those with a green thumb, adding indoor plants to your home is an easy way to bring the outdoors in. Creating living walls, vertical gardens, or a small indoor herb garden can bring the vibrancy of nature to your home. A vining plant like pothos (seen on the right in the image below) is easy to care for and can grow up to 10 feet long indoors – these vines can be carefully attached along a wall or ledge to carry more greenery throughout the space without having to add more plants. These living elements can help to purify the air and give your home a refreshing energy, creating a sanctuary that rejuvenates both the body and the soul.

Pro Tip: If you struggle with keeping houseplants alive, give a snake plant a try before you call it quits on all things green. Snake plants (seen on the left in the image above) actually thrive when neglected! They are perfectly content away from windows and prefer to go for long periods between watering, which makes them a great choice for beginners or busy homes and offices.  

4. Smart Homes: Where Technology Meets Design 

In today’s fast-paced world, smart technology seamlessly intertwines with interior design, offering unparalleled convenience, security, and energy efficiency – without having to sacrifice on style. Imagine a home where your lights adjust to your mood, your thermostat learns your preferences, and your security system keeps you safe – all with a simple touch or voice command. Smart homes not only make daily tasks effortless but also enhance the overall ambiance of your living space.

Smart home accessories all aim to make your life easier or better in some way. Smart thermostats can learn your routines and optimize your heating a cooling to keep you cozy and save on your energy bills. Smart security systems make keeping an eye on things when you’re not at home easier than ever. Smart plugs and garage door openers are eliminating the need to turn around mid-commute “just to check” – you can turn off the curling iron or close the garage door from your phone.

We may be biased, but we think one of the best smart home technologies center around your lighting. Smart lighting systems can mimic natural daylight, promoting a healthy sleep-wake cycle, and can be dimmed or intensified according to your activities and preferences. Smart home theaters adjust the lighting and sound based on the movie you’re watching. Smart hubs can turn your lights on and off while you’re on vacation, helping to prevent theft by giving the appearance that someone is always home. Smart lights can be anything from an inexpensive color-changing rope light in a teenager’s room that they can change to fit their mood, to a professionally installed full-home solution, and anything in between. 

This trend isn’t going away – as technology continues to advance, the possibilities of smart homes are limitless. If you’d like to learn more about how to use smart lights in your home, stop by our showroom –  our lighting experts will be happy to show you the latest technologies available!

5. Mixing Materials: Creating Visual Harmony

The art of mixing materials has become a cornerstone of creating visually appealing and dynamic living spaces. Gone are the days of sticking to one (either yawn-inducing or visually overwhelming) material throughout a room.. Today’s designers and homeowners are blending different textures and materials to craft environments rich in depth and visual interest.

Consider the elegant contrast of a smooth marble countertop against rustic reclaimed wood cabinets in a kitchen, or soft, plush fabrics on a sofa juxtaposed with the sleekness of a metal coffee table in a living room. These combinations add tactile diversity and create a harmonious balance that captures the eye and invites touch.

The key lies in finding a cohesive theme or color palette that ties these diverse elements together, ensuring that the room feels curated rather than chaotic. Experiment with matte and glossy finishes, or intricate patterns with solid colors. Picture the warmth of a woven jute rug against the coolness of a glass-top dining table, or industrial metal pendant lights paired with the earthiness of terracotta planters. Don’t be afraid to experiment with combinations. Mix wood and metal, stone and fabric, or even leather and glass.Mix and match metallic colors throughout a space, or find fixtures that feature more than one tone, like a matte black sconce with copper accents. 

When done right, mixing materials can transform your home into a space that tells a story, evokes emotions, and captivates the senses, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who enters.

6. Bold Colors: Making a Striking Statement in Your Home

While neutral tones have long been the safe choice in interior design, the return of bold colors is ushering in a new era of creativity and self-expression… and we are here for it! Vibrant hues, from jewel-toned emeralds and deep sapphires, to earthy oranges and deep reds, to moody blacks and rich browns, are taking center stage. Gone are the white on greige on white interiors, bold colors are transforming rooms into bold and captivating spaces that are full of life.

Bold colors add instant personality to a room, reflecting your individuality and creating a unique atmosphere that is as dynamic and vibrant as you are. When choosing bold colors, consider the psychology of hues. Rich blues and greens evoke tranquility and depth, making them ideal for spaces where relaxation is key, such as bedrooms or reading nooks. Yellows and oranges radiate warmth and energy, making them excellent choices for social areas like dining rooms or kitchens, encouraging lively conversations and culinary adventures.

You can experiment with adding bold colors in many different ways. Picture a scarlet couch anchoring a neutral-toned living room, an emerald accent wall highlighting a contemporary art collection, or a cozy hallway with the walls and ceiling painted a soothing shade of sage green. These daring choices add plenty of visual interest by establishing a focal point, drawing the eye, and setting the tone for the entire room.

For those who are not ready to fully commit to vibrant wall colors, incorporating bold hues through furnishings, artworks, or textiles provides a perfect compromise. Think about incorporating colorful throw pillows, rugs, or curtains. These elements can be easily swapped or updated, allowing you to experiment with different shades and combinations over time.

7. Vintage and Artisanal Pieces: Adding Timeless Charm and Personalized Elegance

In a world dominated by mass production, there’s a growing appreciation for the craftsmanship and uniqueness found in vintage and artisanal pieces, making them a breath of fresh air in interior design. Incorporating these items into your decor not only adds a touch of historical significance but also infuses your space with a sense of character and individuality that can’t be replicated by modern, off-the-shelf furniture.

Vintage pieces, whether it’s a weathered farmhouse table or a carefully restored mid-century armchair, tell stories of the past (and they make great conversation starters). They carry the marks of time, adding depth and nostalgia to your home. Scouring antique shops or flea markets for these treasures can be a fun experience, allowing you to discover items that resonate with your taste and history. 

Handmade ceramics, woven textiles, or intricately carved wooden furniture are not just objects; they are works of art. In contrast to mass-produced items, artisanal pieces are meticulously crafted by skilled hands, showcasing a level of craftsmanship that is unparalleled. Supporting artisans not only sustains traditional crafts but also brings a sense of authenticity to your home. Each handmade piece carries the unique touch of its creator, adding a soulful quality to your space.

One of the greatest advantages of incorporating vintage and artisanal pieces is the opportunity for personalization. Your home becomes a canvas where you can mix and match eras, styles, and textures, creating a space that reflects your eclectic tastes and passions. Picture a modern living room adorned with vintage posters or a sleek, minimalist kitchen accentuated by handmade, colorful tiles. These combinations add layers to your decor, making it uniquely yours.

When decorating with vintage and artisanal pieces, the sustainability aspect cannot be overlooked. Repurposing existing pieces reduces the demand for new production, minimizing your ecological footprint. And, in a world inundated with mass-produced items, integrating artisanal pieces into your decor is a celebration of the exceptional, the unique, and the enduring. It’s a testament to your appreciation for heritage, craftsmanship, and the human touch. 

Incorporating these trends into your home doesn’t mean undergoing a complete overhaul. Small changes, like adding a reclaimed piece of furniture, introducing a bold accent color, or switching to smart bulbs can make a transformative difference. We’ll never advocate for having a home ruled by trends  – they can be fickle and fleeting. The important thing to remember is that you need to feel like you in your home – so latch onto the trends that spark your soul and make your home a place where you’ll love to be. 

Need help lighting your home? A fully curated room is still incomplete without adequate lighting. Don’t get stuck scrolling for hours trying to find the perfect light, only to have it break during shipping or fall apart right after the return window. Stop by our showroom or give us a call, and let our lighting experts help you find quality fixtures and make the perfect plan for your home’s lighting needs.

Filed Under: 2024, Styles & Trends

Smart Lighting 101: 5 Top Tools to Upgrade Your Smart Home

Smart Lighting 101: 5 Top Tools to Upgrade Your Smart Home

by admin · Apr 24, 2024

Everyone talks about “smart homes,” but what does that really mean? While smart assistants are often the foundation of any smart home, they aren’t truly smart on their own. Smart lighting is another essential element of your smart home. It includes a wide range of electrical products that use software to interface with your smart hub to give you enhanced control, function, and flexibility of your lights.

We know it can be overwhelming sorting through all of the options available to you as you build your smart home. So, we put together this quick guide to some of the most popular smart lighting tools to help you get started!

Special note: Before you go out and purchase any smart light accessories, remember to check for compatibility. Each smart lighting tool is programmed to work with one or more smart home hubs or apps, like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Apple HomePod, etc. It will be much easier to keep track of everything if you can control them all from the same place!

  1. Smart Bulbs

Smart bulbs are a great way to get the most out of your lighting. Smart bulbs are often color-changing or range in temperature. These bulbs will work with most standard lamps and light fixtures. 

Smart bulbs are typically LED bulbs and are also energy- and heat-efficient. In addition, they have a long life and are safer than fluorescent bulbs since they use a microchip instead of gas to create their glow. 

Smart bulbs can range in price, averaging at $7-$15 a bulb. 

  1. Smart Plugs and Outlets

You don’t have to change all your bulbs to get the benefits of AI and voice activation. Instead, you can plug your lamps into a smart plug or swap out the entire outlet! This will allow you to use multiple light fixtures or devices in the same place. 

Smart plugs simply plug into your existing outlet as an extension. Then you plug your lamps or other devices into the smart plug, and you’re ready to go!

Smart outlets take a little more work to install, but it’s definitely within DIY reach. While specific installation steps will vary slightly by your smart outlet choice– the basic installation steps are the same. Check out this YouTube tutorial to get a good idea of what you’ll need to do! 

Special note: Always be sure to follow the brand-specific installation instructions that come with your device. 

Smart plugs and outlets range from about $15 to $30 each.

  1. Smart Switches

Try replacing your dumb light switches with something smarter! Smart light switches help you to click through programmed light scenes so you can switch from day to night to entertaining light scapes at the touch of a button. 

Installation is as simple as swapping your current light switch for the next. Check out this YouTube video for a quick and safe installation. 

Expect to pay $25 to $45 amount for your smart switch. 

  1. Smart Bulb Bases

Another way to keep your existing light bulbs but enhance smart features is to add a smart base to your light bulb. Simply unscrew the light bulb, screw the new base on, and reinsert it into the light fixture. Now your bulb’s power is controlled by the base instead of relying on the light switch!

Smart bases won’t enable features to a bulb that isn’t designed for dimming, temperature, or color changes. But it will allow you to incorporate AI, voice activation, and remote reach from anywhere with your phone. 

You’ll likely pay between $15 and $30 for a smart bulb base.

  1. Smart Lighting Kits

Skip the hassle of buying individual tech with a smart lighting kit. These kits include several bulbs and other pieces of tech to get you started for a discounted price. 

These kits range anywhere from $60 to $200, depending on your selected bundle.

Need Help Creating Your Smart Home?

Proper lighting is essential to a fully functioning home– but it can be challenging to nail balanced brightness, great fixtures, and a budget! Contact the experts at Western Chandelier for advice on your project!

Filed Under: 2023, Bulbs, Buying Guides, LED, LED Lights, Light Bulbs, Smart Lights, Styles & Trends, Styles and Trends

5 Ways to Make Smart Lights Work for You

5 Ways to Make Smart Lights Work for You

by admin · Apr 17, 2024

Everyone wants a home that helps them keep up with chores, improve health, and save money. And many smart home features do just that! But many homeowners aren’t using the time- and money-saving tech available simply because they can’t keep up with all the new features.

Smart lighting is a particularly powerful part of your smart home. Your home’s lighting subtly affects the mood, health, and cost of running your home. So it’s essential to take inventory of your current home lighting– then optimize for your family’s unique needs.

We’ve created this post to help you get the most out of smart lighting! Smart lighting saves you time and money while making your home safer and more enjoyable. We’ll walk you through five surprising ways smart lighting impacts your home, so you know exactly how to upgrade your smart home.

1. Access Your Lights from Anywhere

Using smart lights will integrate into your smart home assistant apps. While AI and voice activation are great tools, you can have much greater control of your lights from the app. For example, if you’re away from home, you can tell which bulbs are on and control them from your phone.

Sick of getting comfortable on the couch only to realize you forgot to turn on the light? Already upstairs and remember that the living room lamp is still on?

Your smart home assistant becomes your new “clapper” switch with a much wider range of accessibility. Simply tell Alexa or Google Home to turn off or on the light bulb by name (you can custom program the name of each of your lights by location or phrase). You can also change the temperature or color of your bulbs from your phone, so you can customize your lights without getting up.

2. Automate Home Habits with AI Smart Assistants

Smart lighting works with your home assistant’s AI to learn your family’s needs and schedule. That means Alexa can automatically turn on lights at your usual time to come home. Likewise, Google Home can dim the lights at night to help you and your kids get ready to rest. 

Your home assistant is designed to ask you if you’d like its help with the lights and will automatically learn your habits based on the information from the software in your smart lighting accessories. Not only do these features help your home come alive to meet your unique needs, but they can also save you money on your electricity bill.

3. Increase Home Security through Automation

Many people worry about home security while away on vacations or extended work trips. But, unfortunately, it’s easy for criminals to case out homes that are dark day and night for a week or two and assume that you aren’t home. 

Smart lights can continue their habits while you are gone, or you can customize them to turn on in new patterns while you are away. This added layer of protection will keep your home from sticking out as an easy target. 

4. Highly Customizable Lighting

Smart lighting can be adjusted and customized in so many different ways. For example, the same smart bulb over a kitchen table can be bright for homework, dim for an intimate dinner, or green for a birthday party. And this level of customization is more than just a fancy party trick– the quality of lighting in your home has a massive impact on how you feel while you’re there. 

Being able to change the lights to match your mood is an incredible tool previous generations could never have imagined!

Bias Lighting

You can also use smart lighting to reduce the strain on your eyes. For example, adding LEDs to the back of your TV or computer screen can give your eyes a break by creating bias lighting. 

Bias Lighting helps to diffuse the color and brightness, so gaming and movie nights are easier on your eyes. Bias lighting also improves the visual contrast of your images – so your image quality will improve without having to drop money on an upgrade at the electronics store!

While just a soft white glow can help immensely, you can also get fancy with smart bias lighting, which changes color live with the images on the screen.

5. Work with Natural Light Rhythms for Better Health

Color-changing features can also mimic natural light patterns for a healthier home. Many modern homes overuse blue light– light that shines bright in similar frequencies to the sun’s light. 

Blue light, like sunlight, keeps your brain alert and focused. When the sun sets outside, the natural world goes from blue to red light (like sunsets and firelight), finally fading to darkness. The gradual shift from blue light to dark allows your brain to shut down and prepare for rest. 

Unfortunately, our modern world removes the red light phase of our natural light cycle. We keep blue lights on far too late into the evening and then simply go from bright blue light to darkness. This overexposure to blue light has led many people to have trouble falling and staying asleep. 

Studies connect poor sleep with increased depression and anxiety, poor work performance, and increased weight and heart risks. 

Many smartphones have a “night mode,” turning the screen a warmer color around sunset. You can set up smart lighting in the same way! We recommend scheduling a color shift, so your lighting sets around the same time every day. Bringing back this natural transition to your family’s schedule can improve everyone’s sleep!

Need Help Creating Your Smart Home?

Proper lighting is essential to a fully functioning home– but it can be challenging to nail balanced brightness, great fixtures, and a budget! Contact the experts at Western Chandelier for advice on your project!

Filed Under: 2023, Smart Lights, Styles & Trends

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