(NC)-Lighting is an important décor element in your home and depending on the kind of bulbs and fixtures you choose, you can make a room warm and cozy or bright and luminous - or anything in between. There are many ways you can use lighting in a room to ensure you get the exact look you are going for. Here are some "bright" ideas you can use when looking for your lighting and design solutions:
• Know all of your lighting needs. For example, functional or focused light, such as from a table lamp, provides light for optimal reading while ambient light, like pot lights will wash the room in general light. You can also use decorative or accent lighting, like a wall sconce or track lighting to highlight the specific décor elements of a room.
• Make sure you're using energy efficient lighting solutions. One of the easiest ways to make your home energy efficient is to change your incandescent light bulbs. Typically, people opt for the compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) bulb as it provides light that you are accustomed to with the added benefits of a longer lifespan and they use significantly less energy than incandescent bulbs. Alternatively, you can now use other technologies to be energy efficient such as Halogena Energy Savers from Philips that use 30% less energy than incandescents and are fully dimmable.
• Use lighting in different ways. You can "layer" the lighting in a room to incorporate multiple styles and sources of light. This will make the room seem more dynamic and visually impressive as you enhance your décor and attract attention to the right areas.
• Incorporate new lighting technologies. For example, Philips has light emitting diode (LED) replacement bulbs are currently hitting the market. Available in a GU10, MR16, and general household style, they offer 80 per cent energy savings versus standard incandescent bulbs and last for 20 years. LEDs are a high-tech way to make a statement with lighting.
Light up your life and your home with light bulbs that are functional, decorative and high-tech to create the impression you want room by room.
- News Canada