HOW YOUR LIGHTING SHOULD BE TELLING A STORY

Great lighting schemes tell a story and can really take your home to the next level. The fixtures should support the design aesthetic of your home while working together and complementing each other. While I fully subscribe to the philosophy that you should love the pieces you purchase, with lighting there needs to be a sense of harmony. So, I would encourage you to not immediately purchase a light fixture without a full plan. Take the time to think about the coordinating light fixtures, the decor and mood of the room, and the overall story you want to tell.

I almost never purchase multiple fixtures from the same line/family of fixtures. I prefer a more curated look. Here a few tips to help you achieve a look that feels effortless, intentional, and stunning.

What are you using the space for? Do you need bright light for kitchen prep? Softer light for dining? Task lights for reading? Think of how you will use the space to determine your lighting needs. And, if you're really on top of your game and you've got your house down to the studs, you can even plan in advance where you will need outlets for lamps (and even place some on the floor if appropriate!)

Statement piece. In order for statement pieces to do their job, all of your light fixtures cannot be statement pieces. Some have to play a supporting role. Choose which area is going to get that statement and then work backward from that.

Here are some lighting schemes that I presented to a client recently. Her style is sort of a California Casual and all of these fixtures were going to be in the same open concept room. Kitchen Island, dining area, and the great room. These fixtures work well together but clearly aren't part of a set. That is how your design becomes elevated, more thoughtful, and personalized. Bye, bye builder grade.

What do I do if I can't replace all of my lights at once?

Hey! You're not alone. Sometimes there is just that one that has to get replaced immediately and the others are less important. Be honest with yourself, are you really going to replace the others? If yes, make a plan. Choose your statement piece and then select the basic look for the supporting pieces. If the answer is no, then you need to select the new piece to coordinate with the fixtures you're going to keep. The great news is that there are just so many fabulous light fixtures on the market, with some perseverance, you will come across the one that plays a part of your home's lighting story.

First row, Second row first, Second, Third row first, Second, Fourth row, The fifth line