Vanity Lighting
Vanity...the word conjures up images of someone primping in front of a mirror; but if we didn't, can you imagine how many shaving cuts or missed broccoli between the teeth?
We want vanity lighting that will do the job: illuminate the mirror to help us get ready for the day or turn in for the night. It's possible to put together some very nice vanity lighting that not only does the job but is stylish, attractive, and eco-friendly!
Probably the first question to ask yourself should be, "Is this an Energy Star endorsed product?" Energy Star is the government-backed program helping businesses and individuals to protect the environment through superior energy efficiency. Using such products will save 30% of the energy you use in your home or business; for the average household that means about $600 per year.
When it comes to an attractive choice of lighting for your bathroom vanity, use the KISS approach: Keep It Super Simple! The lighting fixtures should be in proportion to the size of the bathroom. Choices include 2-light or 3-light sconces, 3-bulb to 8-bulb (and more) bathbars, vertical mounts, or for a higher ceiling, pendant lighting.
Finishes can be found in every material you can imagine to tie in with the chrome, brushed steel, or matte brass fixtures you already have!
An important contemplation would be light diffusion. This is the one room where you don't want shadows cast making it difficult to really see what you're doing, for example when shaving or flossing, but also for make-up application, skin treatments, eye-care, to name a few.
You could drop anywhere from $40 to over $400, if you wish, on making your bathroom vanity "Center Stage" for the divas in your home!
SKY LIGHTS
Let the sunshine in! Invite natural light to grace your home. Take advantage of the views. Add volume to a room. Modernize your older home. Dramatize your plain home. The benefits of installing sky lights, or window roofs, are unlimited.
Take sky lights to new heights with natural light domes, a beautiful way to let light into a space and an energy saver in this time in history where we must think creatively and take the energy issue seriously.
The leaded glass dome window got it's start in antique stores where stained glass windows from renovated churches are always a popular item.
Higher-end natural light domes, making a statement in Germany and France, are created from mouth-blown glass, some with cut glass jewels set in! Available in old world swirls such as the historical Baroque design, the natural light dome is an unforgettable piece of valuable art.
Now, an average-income homeowner can install a machine-made dome sky light in clear glass or bevelled glass in various textures.
A roof window adds value to your home and increases the quality of your life. More sunshine is beneficial to your health and can even lift your spirits, particularly in those winter months. Some sky lights can be opened to allow fresh air into your home.
Perhaps you have an attic space that can become an extra room with the addition of a particular sky light. You can make your entrance way feel like a grand foyer if a sky light would work there. Some go as far as creating an actual sun room with a series of skylights.
Let daylight magically transform your home. Breathe easier. The sky's the limit!
Lighting Systems
An Illuminating Home Automation System bestows beauty, comfort, and ease on your lifestyle!
Imagine pulling into the driveway when you have commuted to and from work in the dark, and then, by pressing a remote control on your vehicle's visor, the path from your garage door to your kitchen instantly lights your way! This once futuristic scenario is possible thanks to technologies developed for commercial use and now available for your domestic enhancement.
The advantages of a lighting control system are numerous. For example, nighttime lighting levels can be set to illuminate stairways to prevent missteps, or pathways to exits in case of a fire or emergency. During vacation, lights can be integrated with your security system to give your home that lived-in look.
Lighting systems integrate science and art. Whole-house automation is appropriate for a larger home and for those who are comfortable with technology. Factor in the way you use your space as you plan your lighting design. Choosing the system that serves you is most important.
On the artistic side, you have the potential to transform the mood of a room. The theatrical effects of a lighting system create wonderful environments in your home whether you're working, relaxing, or entertaining. Even window treatments can be programed in. Imagine waking up in the morning as the lights gradually turn on and the window shades slowly open!
Think of the long range energy savings as a result of lights automatically turning off when a room is empty.
James Watt would be amazed at how far his invention has evolved. Brilliant!
