Blinded by the Light (Fixture)
It’s easy to take lighting for granted. It’s always just kind of there, and we often only notice it when it’s especially bad – think fluorescents in a hideous cubicle farm. But when lighting is good, it can be great for both our spirits and the spirit of a room.
Recessed lighting is great – it can be warm and welcoming. And who doesn’t like natural light? But I also really love actual lighting fixtures. They can add so much to the room (besides, obviously, light) - the best fixtures are like sculpture. Here are some cool ways to use lighting fixtures:
Recessed lighting is great – it can be warm and welcoming. And who doesn’t like natural light? But I also really love actual lighting fixtures. They can add so much to the room (besides, obviously, light) - the best fixtures are like sculpture. Here are some cool ways to use lighting fixtures:
Form meets function. This traditional kitchen space is dressed up a bit with a cool pot rack/lighting combo that looks great empty, too.
I love the way these fixtures lighten up the room - literally and figuratively. Their airiness, along with the glass table, neatly balance the substantial chairs and the circular echo on the wall paper ties the whole look together.
One simple lamp can change the look of a whole room. This unobtrusive, simple floor lamp gives the room some verticality, and draws attention to clean curves of the Noguchi coffee table.
While the placement and structure of this lamp are similar to that of the room above, the function is quite different. This lamp's angular lines and solid black color provide some gravitas to a room dominated with fresh colors and soft edges.
This room could be overwhelmed by the television, but the placement of egg-shaped lights on the floor adds an additional focal point at conversation level.
High ceilings beg for long, long lights. I love these clear balls - they add so much texture and interest to what could be a void.
I couldn't resist adding this photo of crystal ball lighting from another angle. The overall look is so delicate, but festive.
Candelabra chandeliers are an ideal accompaniment to a traditional room. This one dresses up a fairly simple room with a bit of - but not too much - ornamentation.
Sometimes a traditional candelabra is also a nice touch in a more modern room. The clean lines of this table and chairs are a good fit with the slightly more ornate chandelier.
All the windows in this space provide it with a ton of fantasic natural light - but I'm drawn to the light fixtures for their cool shape. Also, the use of the same fixture several times shows off the room's size without making it feel cavernous.