Looking on the Bright Side

Moving is hard, but here we are at our new location at The Shoppes at Memorial Villages. It may take us a little while to get settled, so please—continue to excuse our dust for just a bit longer!

While some parts of a renovation are admittedly a chore, there are plenty of bright spots, too. The opportunity to redesign our showroom is very exciting; one aspect of the project we have particularly enjoyed is choosing new lighting. We have been following the most popular 2016 home lighting trends to help guide our way, and we can’t wait for you to see our new showroom in—quite literally!—a whole new light.

Throughout the process of shopping for and selecting new lighting we were reminded of the tips and best practices we share with clients. Maybe you’ll be inspired to do a lighting makeover yourself.

Design for Form and Function

Lighting is important because it’s practical, but also because of the way it makes us feel. We’ve all heard the phrase “mood lighting”, and we contend that all lighting is mood lighting. Renovating your lighting can completely change the look—and feel—of a room, even if you don’t change another thing.

For best results, think about lighting in layers, or levels. You want a room to have ambient light, as well as task lighting (think desk lamps or undercabinet lighting); statement or area lighting in the form of chandeliers or light fixtures act as a focal point in a room, and enhance the overall décor.

In the Kitchen

Kitchen lighting is important, particularly for those who love to cook. Task lighting illuminates workspaces and storage areas; you can install interior lights in cabinets and drawers, as well as install undercabinet lighting.

Another on-trend option for lighting in the kitchen is kickboard lighting. Both decorative and practical, lighting at floor level is in line with universal design that enhances the home whether you are considering aging-in-place or future resale value.

If you have a large kitchen island or an eat-in kitchen, a statement light fixture can add another layer of light, and a dose of extra style.

Keep up with Cabinets & Designs on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Houzz for daily design inspiration, and follow along as we renovate our new showroom at The Shoppes at Memorial Villages.