Capitol Lighting Blog

Bring a Case to Your Next Dinner Party and Light Up in Style

Forget the Wine and Beer. Bring a Case of Light Bulbs to Your Next Dinner Party and Set the Mood Just Right!

5C7TA-5 from Bulbrite provides holiday night light in Transparent Amber with a candelabra (E12) base.

Looking for the perfect hostess gift to bring to your next dinner party? Why not light up the night with a gift that is sure to please. The latest novelty lamps and color-enhanced light bulbs will bring on the party atmosphere like nothing else and make for a unique and usable hostess gift!

The key to setting the mood for nighttime festivities is to surround your guests in the most flattering light. Lamping options abound and the latest light bulbs make it easy to fine-tune your illumination for the most favorable lighting effects.

Set the Mood: Soft white light provides flattering illumination to complement most skin tones. Dimming the lights and adding candle light is always nice to enhance a more romantic, party atmosphere.

Keep the Bugs Out: Try new amber lamps to deter flying insects.

7.5Watt Ceramic Green s11 from Bulbrite

Pink Ceramic Bulb from Bulbrite

White Ceramic Bulb from Bulbrite

Get Creative: Experiment with different colored lamps to create an ambient glow unique to your surroundings. Have fun with holiday lights. Bring out the best in your decorative party theme!

Yellow Ceramic Bulb from Bulbrite 11S14CY

7-Watt Blue Transparent Bulb from Bulbrite

Pink Transparent bulb from Bulbrite 5C7TP

Blue bulb from Bulbrite 7C9TB

Tone it Down: Provide for easy adjustments to accommodate the flow of entertainment throughout the night. You may want brighter illumination for guests while they are entering your home and greeting new people; more subtle, softer illumination to promote intimate conversation and a soothing atmosphere as the night winds down.

Memorial Day and Fourth of July weekends are upon us. Help to refine a unique fun-filled setting with the latest in home illumination and lighting design. Bring on the summer nights with illumination that will put everyone and everything in the right light.

Top pics include:

72 A19 FR-N-ECO 72-Watt Halogen A19 from Bulbrite.

72-Watt ECO Halogen A19 bulb from Bulbrite shows colors more accurately with less glare to reduce fatigue.

100R30PG 100-Watt 2700K PLANT GROW R30 from Bulbrite.

The Plant Grow Bulb from Bulbrite helps in the growth and germination of plants and seeds.

46677-419646 DecoLED Dimmable 3.54-Watt Clear Medium base LED Bulb from Philips.

The 46677-419646DECO LED bulb from Philips makes an excellent replacement for your incandescent medium base chandelier bulb. This lamp features instant on functioning and will not fade fabrics or colors.

Check out the Latest from Savoy House to Find a Fabulous Foyer Lantern!

People Who Live in Glass Houses, Should Throw their Sights on an Updated Foyer Lantern from Savoy House!

“Euclid” from Savoy House features Forged Black finishing adorned with rustic leaves.

A wonderful way to update your home is with a decorative foyer lantern ceiling fixture. New finishes, intricate designs and a variety of size options are available to show off your unique style and present the perfect invitation to your home.

A properly sized and decoratively coordinated entryway foyer fixture provides an opulent and brilliant introduction with just the right lighting effects.

Even if your home is not made of glass, fine lighting shines through more than any other home accessory or decorative feature. An attractive foyer fixture creates a welcoming atmosphere, while emitting generous ambient light for greeting guests safely into your home.

It is important to size and install your foyer lantern properly to make the most of your lighting composition.

To determine how big your foyer lantern should be, you must know your ceiling height. The overall height of a foyer fixture should allow for a clearance of at least 7 feet from the floor.

“Paragon” 15” Foyer Lantern 3-6037 features Guilded Bronze with Clear Water Glass, faceted by crystal in this bejeweled collection by Brian Thomas.

In a two-story foyer, if there is a picture window above the front door, center the foyer lantern so it can be seen from outside. If the foyer is extra-large, wall sconces make a nice accompaniment to add depth and supply additional illumination.

The latest lighting trends feature oversized fixtures. Make a grand statement with a large foyer lantern for superb upscale illumination. Foyer lanterns from Savoy House Lighting are captivating and superbly crafted, featuring original style, timeless elegance, and designer authenticity.

With an elite team of designers, Savoy House continues to create sophisticated award-winning light fixtures. Artistic innovations include works by Karyl Pierce Paxton, Raymond Waites and Brian Thomas—artists who command attention and brilliantly define the next generation in home illumination and décor.

The design team at Savoy House has propelled home lighting and décor to new heights by creating and defining light fixture fashions and novel lighting compositions for over 46 years.

Check out the latest collections to revamp your home entryway and welcome the 2013 Summer Season:

“Abagail” New from Savoy House. A 22″ Boutique Lantern featuring a Vintage Birdcage with modern sophistication and sparkling crystal accents.

"Lombard" New from Savoy House, A riveting flushmount fixture from designer Brian Thomas featuring curved clear glas with deep ribbin to capture the light and sparkle against the Polished Chrome finish.

“Lombard” New from Savoy House, A riveting flushmount fixture from designer Brian Thomas featuring curved clear glass with deep ribbing to capture the light and sparkle against the Polished Chrome finish.

Trends may come and go, but fine quality and classic finishes endure throughout the ages. Keep in fashion with the latest in home lighting and accessories. Look to Savoy House when renovating or updating your home lighting design for light fixtures, lamps and decorative accessories that are steadfast, strong and enduringly beautiful.

LED Buyers Guide: LED (Light Emitting Diode) and the Future of Home Illumination

Brighter Futures with LED

Learn the basics of LED ( light-emitting diode) illumination, so that you can put the best solid-state lighting practice to work for your indoor and outdoor light fixture applications.

Impact Specialty 40525 BLED Whimsical Floor Lamp from James R Moder

What exactly is LED?

•A light-emitting diode (LED) is made up of a crystalline mineral, such as silicon, galena or germanium that emits illumination (by electro- or photo-luminescence) when voltage is applied.

•LED bulbs are tiny compact light sources that may be used singly or clustered together as a single unit for a variety of lighting applications.

•LED bulbs emit unidirectional light, making for the most effective use of lumen output.

•(LED) bulbs are taking center stage in the residential bulb market for their energy saving and environmental benefits.
“Tut Chi” 70007 LED Energy Smart Accent Lamp from Access Lighting

Why LED will revolutionize the home lighting industry…

ENERGY EFFICIENCY: LEDs use 80% less energy than incandescent and last up to 50 times longer, and up to 10 times longer than compact fluorescents (CFL).

DURABILITY: Because they are solid and do not contain a filament, LED bulbs are shatter resistant and hold up well to rough handling and harsh winter weather conditions.

COOLNESS FACTOR: LEDs radiate little to no heat. As 85% of incandescent light energy is in the form of heat, almost all the energy in LED bulbs is in the form of light.

A PERFECT FIT: A single light-emitting diode makes a perfect compact flashlight bulb, larger LED bulbs are made up of light-emitting diodes clustered together in various sizes and configurations, providing the flexibility to uniquely fit a variety of home lighting fixtures.

MAINTENANCE-FREE: Although initial investment is more, switching to LED quickly pays for itself in operating savings: i.e. lower electric bills, zero bulb replacement and maintenance costs.

ECO-FRIENDLY: LEDs contain no mercury or toxic gas and pose no IR/UV radiation threat.

White Ceramic LED Light Bulb from Bulbrite

What are the drawbacks of LED?

•Initial expense still exceeds that of incandescent or CFL.

•Color rendition, color temperature and dimming capabilities are not as versatile as incandescent.

•Unidirectional light is good for efficiency, but may limit certain decorative effects and overall illumination in larger areas of the home.

“Stratford” Energy Smart Outdoor Post Lamp from Hinkley Lighting

Where are LEDs most useful?

OUTDOOR AND LANDSCAPE LIGHTING: For outdoor and landscape lighting applications they are the number one choice due to their low-maintenance and high energy-efficiency.

Energy Smart P210-L 23″ LED desk lamp by Kovacs Lighting in Brushed Nickel.

TASK LIGHTING: LED desk lamps, reading lamps and mini-pendants are excellent for supplying powerful, glare-free illumination. Top quality LED lamps help older adults to compensate for age-related vision impairments.

UNDERCABINET LIGHTING: Their small size and unidirectional illumination make for superb task light in the latest under-cabinet strip lights.

NIGHTLIGHTS: LED’s provide excellent security lighting in toe-kick spaces in bathrooms and hallway nightlights.

Two Important Factors to Consider when Purchasing LED light fixtures and LED bulbs:

1. The efficiency of the LED itself. The efficacy or the effectiveness of the light-emitting diode is important because LEDs are manufactured in a variety of ways. The Department of Energy (DOE) provides information on new standards of efficacy for solid state lighting.***

2. The compatibility of the LED lamp and the light fixture. LEDs work brilliantly in cold weather, but they are more sensitive to heat and varying electrical conditions, so top-quality fixture design is imperative to geting peak performance from your LED lamps.

“The U. S. Department of Energy estimates that rapid adoption of LED lighting in the United States by 2027 could: Deliver savings of about $265 billion; Avoid 40 new power plants; and, Reduce lighting electricity demands by 33 percent.”-www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=lighting.pr_what_arc

THE BOTTOM LINE:

Greater dimmable features, softer lighting options and lowered cost will secure LED as the “go to” choice for future home lighting applications.

The latest outdoor lighting, landscape lighting, and task lighting are equipped with LED.

To make the most of your LED, be sure to purchase from a reputable dealer. Although they may look the same, cheaper bulbs may be equipped with a low-quality chip and may not last as long. ♦ Look for ENERGY STAR®-ratings to be sure your LEDs are of the best quality.

WHAT’S NEW?

–LED, OLED (Organic light-emitting diode), and PLED (polymer light-emitting diode) are all part of what is know as Solid-State lighting. LED technology is advancing so rapidly that new products are becoming available every day. Organic LED lighting fixtures consist of sheets of carbon-based compounds that glow when a current is applied through transparent electrodes. These novel light fixtures are extremely thin and versatile. They will be featured in Capitol Lighting showrooms soon!

–LED-EX-KT RED RED T 6.5 from Bulbrite comes in a choice of bases (E-12, E-17, DC Bay) and is non-dimming and rated for extra long life–up to 100,000 hours.

LED-EX-KT 1 Watt RED RED T6.5 Extra Long Life Bulb from Bulbrite

Bubrite’s LED9PAR30WW-NF-D is dimmable and available in Warm White.*

LED9PAR 30WW-NF-D 8.4 Watt 120 Volt PAR30 Long Neck Dimmable LED Bulb from Bulbrite

LED 2CTC 2.1 watt 120 volt 30000 hour candelabra torpedo clear bulb, 3000K, 130 lumens, decorative bulb.

LED 2CTC 2.1 Watt Candelabra Torpedo Bulb from Bulbrite

Philips 46677-417048 Ambient LED is dimmable and provides a great alternative to replace A19 incandescent.

Ambient LED 46677-417048 from Philips, an 8-watt A19 LED bulb.

–Multiple color options for newer LED are available. White is the most popular because it produces a soft white light without harsh reflection, glare or shadow.

–The latest LED lamps are dimmable and provide illumination close to the color of halogen (3000K) and incandescent (2700K). *

*The temperature of the lamp, as relative to color appearance of the light, is represented in Kelvin’s (K), which stands for the unit of absolute temperature. 2700K is considered warm and 5000 K is considered cool light.

**Lumens provide the estimated measure of usable light produced from a light source. It is now required that lumen output be prominently featured on bulb cartons.

Rechargeable LED Candles with flicker effects and glass vases from Bulbrite

Fun Facts:

One LED bulb may provide up to 100,000 hours or 25 years of illumination.

Infrared LEDs are used in remote control devices for TVs, DVDs, etc.

Blue LED provides great reading light for older adults; some people have reported that they can read for hours without eyestrain using blue LEDs.

Amber LEDs do not attract flying insects as much as ordinary bulbs so they are ideal for patio and deck illumination.

Efficient LED light bulbs use only 2-10 watts of electricity!

***www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/ssl/sslbasics_ledbasics.html

Top 10 Lighting Tips for Divine Living Room Design

“A living room…confronts each visitor with a style, a secular faith; he compares its dogmas with his, and decides whether he would like to see more of us.”-W. H. Auden, “The Common Life,” a poem About the House.

Lighting the Living Room from “Meh” to Magnificent!

A well-planned lighting design is essential to creating the perfect living room. Although it may be a more formal area in your home, the right lighting will truly make you feel like “living” in this multi-functional space.

More than any area of the home, the living room allows for creative and dimensional variation. A great lighting plan is essential to cultivating a shared space for solitary relaxation, as well as entertaining company.

Top 10 Lighting Tips for Divine Living Room Design

# 1 Aim to provide flattering light around seating areas. Casting a flattering glow will make you and your guests feel and look their best.

# 2 Control indirect glare bouncing off tabletops, metallic surfaces, and shiny floors by incorporating strategically placed light sources equipped with the correct lamps (bulbs)*.

*If opting for fluorescent or LED lamps, make sure these lamps offer a CRI (color rendering index) of 70 or greater. 80 would be best.

# 3 Provide ample general lighting to facilitate easy navigation and serve as a unifying element that brings various sections of the room together. Most living rooms attach to entry foyers and dining rooms; the lighting—especially chandeliers, decorative ceiling fixtures and wall sconces should tie in a common element like a particular finish, crystal composition or matching shade to build upon a complementary design theme.

# 4 Task lighting which offers additional illumination for seeing small details—music at the piano, cards at the game table, titles of books and recordings– needs to be plentiful and focused.

# 5 If your living room is a place where television/videos are located, you will need low-level ambient lighting that does not wash out the screen’s image or reflect into the viewer’s eyes. Cove lighting is a perfect choice for ambient illumination.

# 6 Game tables need bright evenly distributed light. Island lights or shaded pendants equipped with the latest LED (light emitting diode) or compact fluorescent lamps are one solution. *Pendants should hang 36 inches above the tabletop so as not to obstruct play.

# 7 Highlight bar areas with decorative mini pendant lights or recessed spotlights.

# 8 Illuminate fireplaces with ceiling fixtures to create a grazing effect across the surface. Decorate with wall sconces for an additional dimension to attractively draw attention to the fireplace area, while providing evenly distributed illumination.

*Note: When installing wall sconces, The American With Disabilities Act (ADA) requires a 4 inch maximum extension within specified zones in selected circulation areas. Mount wall brackets at eye level (5’ 6”) in living rooms with standard ceilings.

# 9 Bring out textures and colors with wall washing or wall grazing to add depth and interest. Strategically placed track or rail lighting may “raise” the texture of a surface when placed close to the wall, so that the light strikes at a grazing angle. Illuminated wall surfaces make spaces seem larger, while achieving a comfortable level of balanced brightness.

# 10 Illuminate sculpture and artwork with side and overhead spotlight lighting. Highlight wall art with individual picture lights. For a group of smaller pictures, light the surface as a whole rather than lighting each picture individually.

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GREAT WORDS FROM A GREAT MAN FOR MOTHER’S DAY 2013

A LARGE PERCENTAGE OF MOTHERS IN THE UNITED STATES EXPECT NOTHING AND GET NOTHING FOR MOTHER’S DAY! WE CAN DO BETTER!!

ACCORDING TO A 2012 MOTHER’S DAY SURVEY OF 2,123 U.S. MOTHERS WITH CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 18:

21.3 % OF MOTHERS EXPECTED NOTHING FOR MOTHER’S DAY AND 23.6% ACTUALLY GOT NOTHING FOR MOTHER’S DAY!*

LET’S DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!! WHAT BETTER TIME TO START, THAN MOTHER’S DAY? EXPECT MORE. WORK FOR MORE. BELIEVE IT WILL BE SO…

White Ceramic Planter 38083 from Chelsea House

THERE IS A “BIG GAP” BETWEEN WHAT WE WISH FOR AND WHAT WE EXPECT FROM THE WORLD. “THE TRAGEDY IS THAT WE WANT A BETTER WORLD, BUT DO NOT REALLY EXPECT IT. PRECISELY BECAUSE WE DON’T EXPECT IT, WE WILL NEVER GET THE WORLD WE WANT.”–RABBI JEHIEL ORENSTEIN

RABBI JEHIEL ORENSTEIN URGED US TO WORK HARDER TO CLOSE THE GAP BETWEEN WHAT WE WANT AND WHAT WE EXPECT: “EXPECT A BETTER WORLD. WORK FOR IT…ALL GREAT ACHIEVEMENTS BEGIN BY A DEEP FAITH IN THEIR POSSIBILITY…. TELL A CHILD YOU HAVE FAITH IN THE CHILD, AND THAT CHILD BLOSSOMS.”♥

"Reaching for the Stars" 02609 from Cyan Design

“Reaching for the Stars” 02609 artistic accent from Cyan Design

23.6% OF MOTHERS SURVEYED GOT NOTHING LAST YEAR–NO CARD, NO FLOWERS, NO HAND-MADE GIFTS– FOR MOTHER’S DAY.*

WE CAN DO BETTER!! Give Mom What She Really Wants This Year…

Acknowledgement: TELL HER HOW MUCH YOU APPRECIATE HER TIME AND CARE.

“Ms Jolie” Arm Chair from Cyan Design

GIVE HER SOME TIME TO HERSELF AND A PLACE TO PUT HER FEET UP.

“I Hug You” Arm Chair from Cyan Design

“Miss I Candy” Occassional Chair from Cyan Design

IT IS NOT TOO LATE; SHE MAY EXPECT NOTHING, BUT GIVE MOM MORE THAN SHE EXPECTS AND CREATE A BETTER REALITY TODAY, TOMORROW AND FOREVERMORE.

“Prestige” Frame from Eurofase Lighting

Belden Reading Lamp by Arteriors, Fashion forward with oversized drum shade

“Belden” Reading Lamp from Arteriors Home

“Bacchus” Wine Rack from Van Teal

*http://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/199686/what-does-she-really-want-this-mothers-day-not-w.html#axzz2Sz4NFR6n

♥A NOTE FROM YOUR RABBI, please inquire if you would like to see the entire address from Rabbi Orenstein to Congregation Beth El Sabbath Services, May 7, 1976.

Hubbardton Forge: The Epitome of Top Quality Wrought Iron Lighting Design

Great Walls of Wrought Iron with Hubbardton Forge

Wrought iron is an iron metal that is durable and strong enough to withstand harsh weather conditions, yet soft and malleable enough to be fashioned into brilliant artistic lighting compositions.

The latest hand-forged wrought iron lighting designs and accessories blend well with traditional, transitional and contemporary decor.

Resistant to rust and corrosive elements, wrought iron is the perfect medium for outdoor lighting, and wrought iron has been making its way into home interiors, as well, with some of the most outstanding portable lamps, chandeliers and wall sconces.

New Designs from Hubbardton Forge Exemplify the Best in Wrought Iron Style, Elegance and Craftsmanship.

Comprised of “Modern American Blacksmiths,” Hubbardton Forge celebrates form and function with ceiling lighting, wall lighting, lamps, outdoor fixtures, mirrors and accessories, hand-crafted exclusively in the USA.

A company that is accessible and always responsive to special design requests and individual decorating challenges, Hubbardton’s team of designers, engineers and craftspeople work together to create lighting and accessories that are exquisitely unique.

Moreover, Hubbardton Forge is devoted to the development of energy-efficient lighting solutions. Pioneers of environmental cleanliness and innovative manufacturing processes, Hubbardton compositions include raw steel from recycled materials and a durable, powder-coated finish that is free of hazardous chemicals inherent in some liquid finishes. Hubbardton Forge has been honored six times with the Pinnacle “Green Leaf” award. *

Top Pics include:

Traditional “Gothic Arches” from Hubbardton Forge shown here in a Natural Iron finish with Opal glass.

20-5651 “Gothic Arches” 7” wall sconce

The “Rook” by Hubbardton Forge. This new modern-contemporary wall sconce in available in a Vintage Platinum finish with Opal, Pearl or Stone glass and energy-efficient halogen lamp included.

20-7815 “Rook” NEW Stream-lined wall sconce perfect for hallway lighting.

New “Cirque” 17″ Wall Sconce from Hubbardton Forge is available in a myriad of finishes, including Burnished Steel (shown), Mahogany and Natural Iron. Shade options include: Doeskin Microsuede (shown), Eclipse Microsuede, Flax, Natural Anna and Terra.

Hubbardton Forge is the oldest and largest commercial forge in the country, comprised of a team of over 200 people creating hand-forged lighting compositions and decorative accessories that are meticulously crafted by hand and made to last for generations.

When you own a Hubbardton Forge pendant, lamp, chandelier or sconce, you own a piece of Vermont-made art of enduring style and value.

*The Pinnacle Awards were created in 1995 by the American Society of Furniture Designers (ASFD) to honor talented designers and companies for originality of thought and design innovation. The Pinnacle^TM “Green Leaf “Award goes a step further to recognize companies for outstanding, eco-friendly sustainable designs. Hubbardton Forge has won this award three years in a row and has been honored six times for helping to develop beautiful lighting products in keeping with a greener, cleaner environment.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo and Have a Blast with Casablanca Fan Company

It’s Cinco de Mayo; Mi Casa Es Su Casablanca!

Cinco de Mayo (Spanish for the fifth of May) is a celebration of liberty and freedom observed around the world by people of all ethnic backgrounds. It is a festive day filled with cultural celebrations commemorating the astounding victory of the Mexican army during the French invasion of their village Puebla on May 5, 1862.

The Ultimate in Comfort and Style: The “Stealth” Ceiling Fan from Casablanca Fan Company

Enjoy the lively music and delicious ethnic delicacies, but keep an eye on your tequila consumption. If you do get a little wobbly on Cinco de Mayo, make sure your ceiling fans remain smooth and steady!*

There is no better time to get your home ready for the summer heat. Ceiling fan sales are in full speed. Get in on the action and invest in a quality design that will provide stress-free operation, balanced construction and enduring style.

*A fan’s wobble does not mean the fan is mounted insecurely, and it has never been reported that a fan’s wobble has been cause for it to fall from the ceiling, nobody wants a wobbly fan!

Although it may not be a safety hazard (as long as no light kit is attached), a wobbly fan is something to avoid. Wobbling is the result of fan blades being out of weight-alignment with each other and imbalanced.

All Casablanca fan blades are durable, warp-resistant and meticulously balanced with six layers of furniture-grade wood that are cross-laminated and finished to perfection.

A fan from Casablanca Fan Company is the ultimate in style, value and performance. Featuring classic elegance and outstanding design, each Casablanca ceiling fan holds the time honored traditions of the past infused with innovative upgrades of the future.

New from Casablanca: The “Bullet” provides a smooth tailored design.

-Casablanca Ceiling Fan motors are engineered to work flawlessly for the life of the fan. They are ENERGY-STAR™ rated to provide maximum air movement and peak performance.

-Solid die-cast virgin zinc, heavy gauge, deep-drawn steel and strictly reinforced-resin provide blade holders that are durable, illustrious and enhanced for beauty and quiet operation.

-Strict quality control standards ensure the final product is the ultimate in proper form, fit and function.

“Brescia” from Casablanca Fan Company in a rich Alpha Bronze finish.

What’s more, installing a Casablanca Ceiling Fan is almost as easy as replacing a light bulb! Everything you need—light bulbs, batteries for remotes, and even a handy screwdriver– is included with your fan!

Make sure that your ceiling fan is properly balanced and equipped with top quality parts guaranteed to run smoothly for years of comfort and energy savings.

Casablanca "Tribeca" ceiling fan in a clean Snow White finish

Casablanca “Tribeca” ceiling fan offers a clean Snow White finish.The “Mission” ceiling fan from Casablanca features the popular American Craftsman style.

Save Now, Siesta Later! It’s time to get out and enjoy the best ceiling fan deals, so you can party the night away in style and comfort.

How-to Select the Perfect Lamp Shade

Be the life of the party, don a new lamp shade!

Wearing a lamp shade on your head to provoke laughter or disguise embarrassment dates back to the 1920’s when men would place a shade over their head, stand up and tell jokes that were inappropriate for mixed company.

Today, however, we are living in more of an “Anything Goes” society where no subject is taboo and nothing seems to embarrass us easily. Many of us may be wondering where our values lie, what has happened to common decency, and what can we do to regain some control?

Start small; Take a baby step in the right direction by restoring symmetry and adding beauty to your home, one accessory at a time.

Outstanding new lamp shades make it easier than ever to add elegance and update your home decorating scheme. Restore the dignity of an old lamp base and uniquely refine your decorative flair with a terrific new shade. You will be surprised at how such a simple change can add a fresh new look to update your home’s decor.

The best way to find the style that suits your needs is to bring in your lamp base. With a few changes to the internal hardware, you may find that perfect shade and create a whole new look that uniquely defines your decorative style. Simply by changing the lamp’s harp, adding a riser or harp extender , you may custom-fit a new shade shape or style to almost any lamp base!

If you cannot bring your lamp base in to be custom-fitted for a new lamp shade, your choices will be limited–but do not despair. It is still possible to find a suitable replacement lamp shade: Take the following measurements when looking for a new shade…

How-to Size Up a Replacement Shade

1. Measure across the top of your old lamp shade, record this top diameter measurement in inches.

2. Measure across the bottom of the shade, record the bottom diameter measurement in inches. *The bottom diameter measurement is the measurement used for standard lamp shade sizes: Typically ranging from sizes 12 to 18 for most lamp bases.

3. Measure up along the surface of the shade from top to bottom to record the side height in inches.

4. Turn the shade upside down to get the inside measurement from the center top holder to the bottom of the shade, record the overall shade height in inches.

5. Consider the shape of your lamp base and choose a shade to complement that shape whether it be square, oval, hexagonal, etc.

Although it is possible to pick out a lamp shade with these exact shade measurements, you may be limiting your choices. Try to bring your lamp base with you, when searching to update your style with a perfect match!

Beware of the Bargain Basement Fan!

All fans are not created equal. It is what is on the inside that counts!

Gasp!! You fall in love with a gorgeous-looking ceiling fan only to realize after installation that you have a noisy, humming, wobbly inefficient fixture hanging in the center of your room.

When shopping for ceiling fans, a little knowledge goes a long way in guiding you to make good decisions. Although fans may look similar, the parts you do not see are the vital organs, the essence of its value in providing comfort and peak performance.

The Malibu Star fan from Casablanca provides top quality performance and a motor with a lifetime warranty.

The heart of every ceiling fan is the motor. The motor is responsible for producing quiet operation while driving the blades for air movement. The best fan motors are equipped with heavy-duty windings and sealed bearings that are permanently lubricated. High quality motors are designed to work flawlessly for long periods of time and some are guaranteed to last for the lifetime of your fan.

Blade design and makeup, complementary lighting kits and accessories, and proper installation are also important considerations when choosing a ceiling fan.

♦ Fan blades determine the amount of air being circulated throughout the room. The fan blade brackets should be positioned so the blade is at a 12-15 degree angle for optimal circulation and be weighed and matched as a balanced set to avoid having your fan wobble.

♦ A fan with less than a 12-degree angle will not circulate air as well and be less efficient. The greater the angle of the blade the more air circulation you will have in your room. Blades should be made with wood or acrylic and be sealed and treated to resist humidity.

Some other important safety features to know when installing a new ceiling fan:

♦ A typical ceiling fan weighs between 15 and 50 pounds when fully assembled. Your junction box may be able to support that weight while the fan is hanging still, however, a fan that is running exerts greater force and may cause an improper junction box to fail. According to code, a ceiling fan must be supported by an electrical junction box listed for that use. Be sure to upgrade to a proper junction box when replacing a light fixture with a ceiling fan.

♦ Ceiling fans must be installed according to code so that the blades are at least seven feet from the floor. And most homeowners should allow for even more leeway—as taller individuals may be in danger of coming into contact with the fan blades.

Guidelines to Know Before You Shop for a New Ceiling Fan:

♦ The bigger your space, the more fan power you will need. Rooms that are about 150 square feet or larger would call for a 52-inch diameter fan. Your comfort zone in smaller rooms or dining areas may be satisfied with a 42-inch or 48-inch fan.

♦ Most popular selling ceiling fans are equipped with 5-blades, but fans with fewer blades actually move more air. Typically, a four to five blade fan provides sufficient cooling power in most homes. Yet, some of the latest styles are attractively designed with one blade.

The “Enigma” by Fanimation is Energy Star-rated and offers great air circulation with a sleek one-blade design.

♦ “Hugger” fans or low profile ceiling fans are ideal for rooms with lower ceilings. Hugger fans require close-to-ceiling installations where blade rotation will be unobstructed, so they are unsuitable for rooms with vaulted ceilings.

♦ Outdoor ceiling fans are designed for locations such as open porches or gazebos. These fans are specifically treated with rustproof finishes and non-warp blades to withstand elements such as heat, humidity and extreme cold. Be sure to check for fans that are UL listed for wet/damp conditions when purchasing a ceiling fan for outdoors.

♦ Energy Star ceiling fans are those that have been evaluated and rated as being 50 % more efficient than standard fans. ENERGY STAR rated fans prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficient guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.

Deciding on a ceiling fan may be overwhelming due to the wide range of sizes and styles. Lighting professionals are highly trained and adept at matching your needs to the appropriate fan and ALA-member lighting showrooms offer customizable products—decorator finishes, select blade choices such as hand-carved blades, custom light fixtures, ceiling medallions, and control systems, installation tips and servicing advice.

With the summer season upon us, there is no better time to invest in ceiling fans for your home environment. Investing in a top quality ceiling fan will prove to be a cost-saving purchase by the end of the season, as you will cut down on air-conditioning use, beautify living space, and increase your comfort zones.

Light on Mother’s Day: Get the “Honey-do” List Ready

Mother, MAY I? Brighten Her Day and Tackle the “Honey-Do” List with Great Illumination!

It’s that Time of Year Again! Spring is in full bloom and Mother’s Day is coming. Get those “Honey-Do” lists ready….

Clean off the patio and make sure there is enough task lighting over the grill and enough ambient lighting to set the mood for enjoying the sultry summer nights ahead.
Clean outdoor post and hanging lanterns and make sure light bulbs are in working order.
Repair potholes in the driveway and check that outdoor security lighting and motion sensors are up and running. Reset timers to adjust for longer daylight hours.
Check landscape lighting fixtures and replace any broken lamps or switches. Update your outdoor wall lanterns or relamp outdoor lighting fixtures with energy-efficient, longer-lasting light bulbs.
Clean the dining room chandelier; make sure the crystal is sparkling. Or, better yet, surprise her with a splendid new chandelier or decorative hanging pendant!

7. Convert the extra closet into a sewing/hobby center. Install a custom-cut countertop and a little task light… “Viola!” You are done.

8. Or, maybe you are not done….Why not literally “Knock Her Socks Off” and build her a bigger closet?!

Whether you are building a new closet or updating an existing one, there are specific rules for lighting an enclosed closet space. The National Fire Protection Association’s National Electrical Code (NEC) sets standards for safety:

Because closets contain flammable material with limited ventilation, strict building codes dictate that specified lighting fixtures must be installed 18” to 24” from walls depending upon which lamp source is being used. Surface mounted and recessed fixtures must allow for 6”-12” of clearance from any storage space, such as shelving or clothing rods.

♦Of course,these standards are not a problem for Mariah Carey whose closet is as big as a bedroom!

One of the latest changes to the NEC code is the addition of LED (light-emitting diode) fixtures. LED lighting may cost a bit more, but energy-savings, greater illumination and safety features will prove to be well worth the investment over time. The quality and adaptability of newer LED lighting makes it an excellent choice for closets and dressing rooms.

*Mirror, mirror off the wall, make mother fairest of them all. Add elegance and portability to her vanity/make up area:

: “Metalworks” Standing Vanity Mirror in Silverplated Brass is New from Butler Specialty.

9. Don’t leave Mom in the dark! Create a cozy corner with a new den floor lamp so she may relax and read, while you watch the ball game! Try a lamp with full-spectrum lighting to elevate her spirits.

10. Reward yourself: Clean out the garage and carve out a space for a workshop that is all your own!

People are investing more into floor covering, cabinetry and shelving to make the most of their garage space. Fluorescent fixtures, track lighting and simple portable lamps are making their way into upgraded organized garage systems.

LS-21565 MAXX 1 light LED clip-on lamp from Lite Source in Polished Steel Perfect Task Illumination

Turn your garage into a functional space in which to enjoy hobbies, or create a custom-designed workshop for tools and supplies.

If you get the lighting right, you will need to do next to nothing to make your garage more inviting and user-friendly.

Sunday May 12^th 2013 is Mother’s Day. Surprise Mom with the latest lighting and accessories, including stunning new mirrors, table lamps, and chandeliers.

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Light on Mother’s Day: Get the “Honey-do” List Ready

Mother, MAY I? Brighten Her Day and Tackle the “Honey-Do” List with Great Illumination!

It’s that Time of Year Again! Spring is in full bloom and Mother’s Day is coming. Get those “Honey-Do” lists ready….

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Forget the Wine and Beer. Bring a Case of Light Bulbs to Your Next Dinner Party and Set the Mood Just Right!

People Who Live in Glass Houses, Should Throw their Sights on an Updated Foyer Lantern from Savoy House!

Brighter Futures with LED

What exactly is LED?

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Use This Graphic for FREE on Your Site!

Great Walls of Wrought Iron with Hubbardton Forge

New Designs from Hubbardton Forge Exemplify the Best in Wrought Iron Style, Elegance and Craftsmanship.

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Enjoy the lively music and delicious ethnic delicacies, but keep an eye on your tequila consumption. If you do get a little wobbly on Cinco de Mayo, make sure your ceiling fans remain smooth and steady!*

Be the life of the party, don a new lamp shade!

How-to Size Up a Replacement Shade

Although it is possible to pick out a lamp shade with these exact shade measurements, you may be limiting your choices. Try to bring your lamp base with you, when searching to update your style with a perfect match!

All fans are not created equal. It is what is on the inside that counts!

Some other important safety features to know when installing a new ceiling fan:

Guidelines to Know Before You Shop for a New Ceiling Fan:

Mother, MAY I? Brighten Her Day and Tackle the “Honey-Do” List with Great Illumination!

It’s that Time of Year Again! Spring is in full bloom and Mother’s Day is coming. Get those “Honey-Do” lists ready….

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