The Power of Lighting

We have explored many possibilities in the past few posts. Today let's talk about really seeing and highlighting all the beautiful changes your newly remodeled kitchen or bath has experienced.

Lighting is so important. We need it to function. Yet, allowing strategic lighting to accent or emphasize is fun and adds great value to your new space.

KITCHENS:
Gone are the days of big light boxes attached to the ceiling with fluorescent  bulbs.  Basic lighting now generally includes lights over the sink area, over the island, and at least one central light fixture to light up the entire room.

In kitchens pendant lighting is especially popular right now. What  is a pendant light? It is a singular fixture hung from and extension bar or cord between the ceiling cover and the counter top or sink. Pendant lights are available in every style imaginable.  Beautiful hand blown glass globes are very popular. Another style, a drum shade in various sizes is too. There are lights and extension bars made in the same metal as faucets. Nickel, chrome,brushed or textured nickel, black, bronze, and antiqued finishes for faucets and lights add beauty and sophistication, whatever your preference is!

Specialty lighting is the icing on the cake. However, it also has practical function. One of  the best innovations for mood and function is under cabinet lighting. It is beautiful. It highlights the gorgeous granite or quartz counter surface selection. A very new trend is quartz counter tops with actual semi precious stones embedded in the slab. They have a translucent quality that lends itself beautifully to under counter lighting to bring out the true color of the stones.

The under cabinet lighting is economical.  LED lights under the cabinets are perfect because they are extremely economical. They use very little electricity, yet brighten up the area very well.  Using only one area all night is perfect for a soft nightlight to guide one looking for a midnight snack without needing to turn on all the lights! Sometimes prepping and cooking is just easier with better lighting. The light shining down on the counter as you create your favorite dishes really helps.

What about your special memorabilia or family heirlooms?  We all have special dishes or items we love and enjoy seeing. Their is something so special about a family heirloom used by our mother or grandmother in their own kitchen. It is so easy to forget about where it is and never see it or use it.
Adding a special set of cabinets with finished interiors and lighting is perfect. You feel so connected to very special memories and your loved ones seeing treasured items they used in their own kitchens.

In kitchens using professional six or more burner stoves, special lighting in the appropriate hoods shine down beautifully on the cook top area. Some of these lights are specialized to keep food warm.
This practical use of lighting makes life easier. Another great new application for lighting is a feature in Plato Cabinets, our premier line of custom cabinetry. Interior lights can be ordered which turn on as soon as the cabinet door is opened. This feature is especially helpful in corner cabinets with lazy susans. Storage cabinets get packed with rows of pantry supplies. It can be hard to see exactly what is hidden in the back. Interior lighting brightens everything up so you easily find what you need.

BATHS:

Have you heard of color therapy? Different colors effect us emotionally and physiologically. New soaking or air pumped jacuzzi like tubs are available with lighting to help you relax and calm down or stimulate you to begin your new day.

Lighting is also available in accessories in your shower. Ceiling lights flood the entire shower with light. They even have lighted shower heads now! Pendant lights are also very popular over the vanity area.

Of course the combination of ventilation fans with lighting is still a practical need and very popular.

Remodeling creates  many decisions you need to make. You will find lighting to be one of the most expressive and fun choices you make. Come see us and we'll listen to your dreams and help make it come to life!