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Progress Lighting,  remodeling,  renovations,  Shopping for lighting

Shopping for lighting with Ferguson: The most important things to consider (before you even start) – Part 1 of 3

Posted on October 14, 2014

We’re excited to kick off a new series with our partners at Ferguson that sheds light on all you need to know when shopping and purchasing light fixtures for a new home, remodel or renovation. Today, Bernadette Campbell, Ferguson East Regional Lighting Manager, shares how to select fixtures you love, while taking into account your overall design plan. Plus, keep reading to learn room-specific lighting guidelines.

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What are the most important things to consider when shopping for fixtures to light your home?

Lighting adds a beautiful finishing touch to a room, much like a vintage broach or special piece of jewelry completes the look of an outfit. Selection of lighting is an important part of the overall design plan and should not be overlooked. Lighting can also add value and security to the entire property.

When shopping for lighting fixtures, key points to remember are:

  • the location of the fixture
  • the amount of light needed by people using the room
  • aesthetics
  • quality
  • cost

How do you account for both decorative and functional lighting?

We recommend a method called “TADA” lighting: task, accent, decorative and ambient lighting. This combination of layers of light allow the proper illumination for the many different events that take place in every room.

Do you have any room-specific lighting guidelines? For example, what are the most important factors to consider for lighting your kitchen, bath, dining room, etc.?

Kitchen. The kitchen is the heart of the home. Utilizing today’s emphasis on LED, under cabinet lighting is a must for tasks. Recessed lighting provides excellent ambient lighting. Add decorative and accent lighting with personal design elements such as pendants and chandeliers.
Living Room. Living rooms are quiet, comfortable areas for relaxation and conversation. The room should be illuminated with ambient lighting and accent lighting.
Dining Room. The lighting in a dining room tends to be more formal. Many homeowners choose a chandelier, but the days of the standard polished brass chandeliers are long gone. There are an abundance of styles and designs available; and when paint colors are subtle and there are no busy patterns on rugs or other decorations, a decorative chandelier can add an exciting focal point.
Bathroom. Correct lighting is essential for the bathroom. Ambient lighting sets the stage to add task or accent lighting. Vertical fixtures or sconces mounted on either side of the mirror are best for makeup and shaving. Position sconces to shed equal light on both sides of the face, and 3 to 4 feet apart on the wall. Bathroom fixtures should have translucent shades to diffuse light, and frosted bulbs to cut glare.

Stay tuned for our next post in which Bernadette addresses some practical steps you can take to be prepared to shop for lighting for your next home remodel. Thanks for stopping by!