Winter-time is coming and with it our natural light becomes dim more often than we’d prefer. Thus, a poignant time to focus on an (indoor) project that will help reshape the way we see things. Literally.
The imperfections in a home tend to show more when the lighting is unnatural and forced. A lot of times, those imperfections come from the lighting. Hence, steering us to look into our light fixtures. If it feels as if the light fixtures may need a re-work, luck would have it that this upgrade won’t wipe out any bank accounts. There are many ways to upgrade light fixtures and we can’t wait to share them with you here.
First things first…choose the fixtures that are bringing down the house. Whether wall sconces, desk lamps, flush mounts or even just the light bulbs themselves, choose the sore spots. Once those light fixtures are discovered, it will be easy to work through the issue they may be adding to the space.
light bulbs
There used to be just a few options for light bulbs. An errand to your local hardware store and you were in business. Now-a-days, however, there are more options, so reading up on what may work best is a good idea. Light bulb lumens can be just like a paint color. The different brightness options can look different in every space.
Without boring anyone, lumens are the measure of the light bulb’s brightness. It is good to know that the higher the value of lumens, the brighter the light. Wattage measures how much energy a light bulb uses. Prior to 2012, nearly all light bulbs were incandescent which made it easy when choosing because the light bulb’s wattage was the only thing one had to consider.
Fast forward to ’12 and incandescent bulbs started phasing out due to more energy efficient options hitting the market. Understanding the differences, etc. can be a lot, but note that choosing the right lumens and wattage can make a difference in a space. Therefore, doing research and troubleshooting is a great way to pin-point what will work best. (There are quite a few light bulb options to consider so knowing a bit ahead of shopping may be worth it).
lamps
An easy and obvious fix for a standing lamp is to switch out the lamp shade and/or the base. Affordable lamp shades can be found in big name shops such as Home Goods or Target. To create a more well-rounded space, covering a lamp shade in a coordinating fabric or even contact paper (there are so many designs available now!) is always a nice way to add a bit of consistency and warmth to a room.
Another easy way to upgrade a lamp is by changing the finial. The final is the ornament on the top of a harp lamp that helps the lamp stay put together and fastened. This is a nice idea if you are switching a lamp from one room to another. For instance, if a lamp lives in a more casual room currently, but it may be moving to a dressier room then adding a more ornate finial may help work this lamp into a new space.
A painted lamp base is also a beautiful way to mix things up. Whether DIY (spray painting can be easy, affordable and fun) or sourcing a lamp base that speaks to the décor, we really love this addition to any room. Skipping the paint job and just antiquing the paint that is already there can be another easy, quick upgrade as well. Get creative, think outside the box. Surprising (& refreshing) how a subtle change can create a new feel in an area!
sconces
Adding sconces to a room, in our opinion, really elevates the surroundings. A warmth and coziness are introduced. Sconces adorning bookshelves are a favorite. Another option is to bring back a more traditional look by hanging a sconce over a painting or piece of art. This approach creates conversation and really grounds the décor.
flush mounts or ceiling lights
We love a good flush mount light and have been seeing them pop up in every sort of room – children’s spaces, kitchens, dining rooms. Depending on the overall vibe of the home, adding a plaster medallion to a flush mount can really elevate the style of a home. We think adding medallions give the décor a feeling of classic or vintage in a stepped-up way. The best part? Ceiling medallions are inexpensive. And if white won’t work, paint it a color of choice to really add some pizzazz!
Showing in the best light is the way to go. We like to think that upgrading and cleaning up lighting in a home is a great winter project! Stay cozy.