The Homeowners Comprehensive Guide to Lighting (part 3)

Built-In Lighting

Built-in lighting uses a site built structure (ie. a valance, cabinet or bulk-head) to control the beam and diffuse or focus the light to create a different atmosphere in the room or function for the light.


Under Cabinets:

Want to avoid that pesky shadow while preparing food or using your countertop?  Here is where under cabinet lighting is key.  There are three main types of lamps suited for this application which include fluorescent tubes, xenon strips and led strips.  As illustrated in the photo above, tubes and strips will provide continuous light, whereas pucks, which are less common, will provide more of a spot light feel on the countertop.  You will also want to ensure your contractor mounts the lamps near the front edge under the wall cabinets so they throw light directly on the countertop. 

Above Cabinets, Coves and Valances:

Ideal for soft, ambient lighting, cabinets or horizontal baffles running around the room below the ceiling can hide strip lighting.  Light is directed onto the wall or ceiling where it is diffused and reflected back out to the room.  The illustration below shows how the light will be reflected in a variety of installations.

For more great suggestions and help with your renovation, please contact our team at Interiors With Elegance.  We look forward to hearing from you!

Basement Renovation Tips

Basement's used to be that extra space in a house where items were put out of sight & out of mind. Their main function was for storage; items from your past, things you haven't use for years but await the day you may need them etc. There is a growing trend in the usefulness of basements these days and the following are just a few ways you can change that drab space into something more functional and much more aesthetic. READ:Stop hoarding and start living.

 Create your own at-home 'Dream Spa' with a therapeutic steam system, lounge area & mood lighting. All inspired by the warmth of nature; naturally.

 Tune in to some family bonding with a play room for the mini-you's in your family. Add some color with creative storage places for arts, crafts & board games. Large open areas are a timeless choice for when kids start taking interests in boxing & dancing.

 Or, if it suits you, tune-in to technology and other people's lives with a media room you can really sink into. With the influx of technology in our day to day lives, no one could blame you if you want to dedicate a whole room or entire basement to it.

 Possibilities are truly endless when it comes to this undervalued space. My advice? Find what you love and dedicate a good portion of the area at the bottom of those stairs to it.