Here is a “before” photo for a living room makeover

The visitors would have to yell across this space

The lighting and colors need help as well

The plants seems to be trying to escape!

After

New colors, furniture and lighting

Note the up-lights behind the plants

Cove lighting on the right

Accent lights below the cove (art) and on the larger picture

Outside lights prevent the black mirror effect

Consider placing a fixture over a balcony (when possible)-- rather than 20’ high

Easier to

replace the bulb later

If you add recessed lighting:

Use “IC” or insulation contact cans for safety and code

Special “remodel” cans make it possible to cut a smaller hole into the ceiling

When mounting tracks or spots on a beam, why not place them in a less visible location?

Outdoor accent lighting

SIZE OR SCALE: IS THIS FIXTURE THE

CORRECT SIZE FOR ITS LOCATION?

“LAYERING” EXAMPLE

“Half-hot” or half-switched plugs

These plugs can make an entire room more usable, just by making the lighting more convenient

The top plug is controlled by a switch, the bottom one is always “live” or “hot”

This lamp has an in-line cord dimmer—these can be added to existing lamps

Some examples of dimmer switches

Switch plate covers come in many colors—it’s best to have the switch plate blend with the wall or disappear

Remotes to add to lamps or up-lighting—especially ones without a half-hot plug

A zoned controller for different mood and zone lighting options

A beautiful bedroom with layers of lighting: recessed ceiling lights, cove around the bed, table lamp, clip-on accent, and corner up-light

Here is another example of how to achieve effective cove lighting

See tiny recessed ceiling spots, wall sconces through the mirror, and cove lighting (not turned on in this shot)

ENERGY CODES