Cove Lighting

Ever consider the soft indirect glow of cove lighting in your home?

Turn off the microscope that is direct lighting and relax under the soft indirect golden glow of cove and valence lighting.

Great for lighting ceiling perimeters, toe spaces, nooks and crannies and even under cabinets and counters.

Cove and Valence lighting done right is like a great book that you simply can't put down until you have read every page cover to cover. The soft yet striking indirect illumination follows the twists and turns of your home and bathes you in brilliant perfect light. Render your home in great story book fashion.

ALA Member, Lighting4sale, can assist in designing your system today.

Landscape Lighting Tips

Years ago, landscape lighting was fairly simple and undeniably basic. In fact, it often consisted of just an arrangement of lights to brighten the pathway leading to the front door. Sometimes a few down lights were added in for good measure. Today, landscape lighting has grown up and is used to create scenes that are equally beautiful and just as functional as those used indoors. Read on for a few good landscape lighting tips.

Think of creating a plan for landscape lighting as painting a picture. Be creative and think of how best to highlight your garden, show off your pond, and showcase the outside of your property. If you have trouble determining good focal points and formulating a plan, don't despair. ALA-member, Lighting4sale, can help you to achieve the desired result.

Not used just for aesthetic appeal, landscape lights can go a long way toward boosting safety around your home. Falls and other accidents are far less likely in a well-lit area, and intruders would much rather attempt to break into a dimly-lit home than a well-lit one. If you plan to entertain on your grounds at night, landscape lights help to make doing so safer and more enjoyable as well.

As with all types of light fixtures, good-quality fixtures become part of your home and can last a lifetime. If you decide to sell your home, quality landscape lighting can help you to boost your home's sale price. To select the best in landscape lighting, visit Lighting4sale, your ALA-member lighting showroom today.

The all new poetic Meadowlark Collection from Quoizel Lighting is well-balanced and graceful, and has a rustic finish on the metal that adds an informal touch. The wispy almond creme glass shades illuminate your home with a warm light that welcomes your family and friends with style.

The chandeliers are offered in three light, six light and nine light.

Pendant lighting is offered as a mini-pendant, a three light inverted bowl pendant and a beatiful three light island pendant.

Add in the two light semi-flush ceiling mount fixture and create the timeless elegance you deserve.

Shop the incomparable Meadowlark Collection at Lighting4sale, an American Lighting Association member showroom.

Track Lighting

Lighting fixtures are necessary for all households. They are necessary not only for illuminating an area but also to accentuate the look and feel of the rooms. Track lighting is one of the most widely used and highly versatile options as they are available in various shapes, sizes, designs, colors and power output options. Track lighting fixtures are used in homes, work places, art studios, theatres, cinemas, auditoriums and other public places.

Track lighting has the capability to provide directional and focal lighting. It provides ideal enhancement for areas with excellent general lighting but which need additional focus on accent features. It is commonly known that track lighting has always been most suited to contemporary styling. Designers are making innovative use of track lighting in homes, as accent or pendant lighting.

My preference is a sleek low voltage track head that powers a halogen MR16 lamp. These 2” high intensity light bulbs are the cleanest form of halogen illumination available and beam spreads range from very narrow spots to wide floods.

Kitchen Island Lighting

There is little as frustrating as a dimly-lit kitchen island. In order to be effective in the kitchen, you need to be able to see well. Though the need for lighting in this area is obvious, choosing the right lighting can be very confusing for many.

Decorative pendant lights work wonders for lighting an island, while simultaneously adding style to your kitchen's décor. You might use a combination of two or three pendant lights over a kitchen island for an even more appealing look. A dimmer switch, used in conjunction with pendants, allows for bright task lighting to effectively brighten the area for food preparation or homework, while allowing the lights to be lowered for entertaining guests or simply to create a charming atmosphere. Fluorescent light fixtures can also be used to light a kitchen island, as recessed can lights positioned overhead.

There are many styles of pendant lights from which to choose. You can find pendant lighting to fit any type of kitchen décor. Mini pendants work well with kitchen islands also and can be positioned to form a fashionable row of lights.

From sleek and modern to rich and ornate, the style choices are endless. Remember to select the highest-quality lighting you can afford and your fixtures will last for quite some time. Since good lighting both beautifies and adds value to your property, you don't want to skimp by purchasing fixtures at your local bargain store. For the highest-qualityIsland lighting in all the latest styles, visit our Lighting4sale ALA-member lighting showroom.

Lighting Ideas

Home lighting projects provide a great way to add drama and style to your home. You can use lighting arrangements in myriad different ways to highlight, define, and set the mood. Though many lighting arrangements are added when the home is built, there are many home lighting projects that can be easily added to already finished rooms.

Available in metal cans or as small adjustable halogen fixtures, uplights offer a way to add interest to your room. Generally, they are fairly inexpensive and are simple plug-ins. Uplights work well on a floor behind a plant or other decorative element or can be used to bathe a part of a wall in light or focus on a wall hanging. They can also be used atop a wardrobe.

Undercabinet lights can be used to focus light on a workspace. This type of lighting is typically used in kitchens, home offices, and other work areas. Undercabinet lights not only make accomplishing tasks easier, but also work with other lighting to provide layered illumination.

Lampshades can be incredibly important to the look and effectiveness of your lighting. Experiment with different styles and sizes to find the right look for your personal decorating style. Take advantage of the many lampshade fabrics to complement your room; you'll find everything from cotton and damask to silk and linen. You can even find lampshades embellished with all sorts of decorative accessories. When choosing lighting for your home, of the utmost importance is selecting quality fixtures. Visit Lighting4sale, an ALA-member lighting showroom for lighting that is stylish, high-quality, and made to last.

Think Outside the Bar

When most people think of bathroom lighting, an image of a standard, wall mounted fixture above the mirror pops into their heads. While this is a very common form of bathroom lighting, it's definitely not the only option out there. Ceiling fixtures, such as flush and semi-flush mounts in addition to larger pendants and even wall sconces are all options that can go a long way to making a decorative statement in your bathroom.

Most bathrooms are small enough that only a single fixture is needed to supply an ample of light. One option that is underused in the bathroom is the ceiling-mounted fixture. A multitude of beautiful flush and semi-flush mounts are available that would work wonderfully in any bathroom. Gone are the days where ceiling lighting meant a boring circular or square glass shade that worked better as a dust catcher then an eye-catcher. Look for smaller fixtures that weren't necessarily made for the bathroom, as this, as well as keeping an open mind, will open up a world of possibilities for your bathroom lighting.

There is no rule or ordinance that states you can only use one type of lighting fixture in your bathroom. Especially in larger bathrooms, it often makes sense to mix a few wall sconces with a nice ceiling fixture or group of pendants, if your ceiling height permits. The point here is to look at your options and add some creativity and ingenuity when the situation permits it.

If a bathroom vanity works well in your bathroom, don't be afraid to embellish it by adding a sconce on either side. A small ceiling fixture, in conjunction with your vanity or bar is also a great option to add some contemporary flair to your bathroom. Make your bathroom lighting your own by adding some originality and extra thought-don't settle for the standard bathroom bar.

Kitchen Ceiling Lighting

There is more than one way to light a kitchen, and ideally, you should use a combination of techniques. Kitchen ceiling lighting should be combined with lighting positioned in other areas, to create the proper flow and brightness. Typically a combination of ceiling fixtures, undercabinet lights, and often track lighting is necessary to create an effective lighting scheme that is both functional and decorative.

Many years ago, a lone ceiling fixture could be found lighting most kitchens. That has changed dramatically over the years and now it is common to light kitchens with fluorescent tube lighting combined with chandeliers and often recessed lights as well. The most important part of choosing lighting for your kitchen is placing it in the right area. For instance, knowing where to place your chandelier is just as important as choosing to buy a chandelier in the first place.

In today's kitchens, ceiling fixtures may play a starring role, but they are not expected to carry the show alone. Ceiling fixtures are often used in conjunction with track lights, undercabinet lights, surface mounted spotlights, directional lights, and dimmers to create the right combination of general illumination and task lighting. The more elaborate the kitchen, the more elaborate the lighting arrangement, calling for a carefully planned blend of general, accent, and task lighting.

Decorative Table Lamps

Decorative table lamps can be used to provide task, general, and accent lighting. Table lamps are portable, meaning you can move them about with ease, allowing you to easily change the decor of your room with minimal effort. You are not stuck with choosing dull or humdrum table lamps, as lamps are available in a fascinating array of sizes, colors, and styles.

Tiffany lamps are a particularly popular choice. Tiffany shades are made of stained glass that has been rolled by hand; they express colors that are both stunning and elegant when lit. The beauty of Tiffany lamps lies in the fact that no two are exactly alike. The two most common styles of Tiffany lamps today are Victorian and Mission. Victorian-style table lamps typically feature luxurious curves and embellishments, while Mission-style lamps are known for straight lines that form rectangles and squares.

Another popular choice for decorative table lamps are those made of Mica. Mica is a group of minerals that crystallize in such a way that thin leaves are formed. The effect of light shining through Mica is both beautiful and mystical, with colors varying from light brown to green, yellow, or black.

Though Tiffany and Mica lamps enjoy particular popularity, there are many choices when it comes to lamp styles. You can find table lamps made out of everything from wood to wrought iron, in shapes and styles ranging from the subtle and elegant to the grand and ornate. When purchasing table lamps, always remember the most important thing is quality. Quality table lamps last longer, providing both light and beauty for years to come. To find high-quality table lamps and other light fixtures, visit Lighting4sale an ALA-member lighting showroom.

Fun with Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting has transformed the porch and patio into a great setting for entertaining friends and family.

It’s fun to walk the perimeter of your house and mentally paint a picture of your lighting ideas and then later watch the nightscape take its shape.

Make sure the lighting fixtures you choose are durable and will stand up to your weather conditions. Nobody wants to see a cheaply finished outdoor lighting fixtures fade or drip rust.

Plan so that your outdoor lighting fixtures match creating a streamlined look. We have a plethora of great styles that will put you in good light and will have the neighbors inquiring.

Consider deck lighting evenly spaced. Path lighting will walk people around your property with a friendly glow. I suggest using low voltage xenon light bulbs whenever possible for nice warm illumination and maintenance friendly operation. Always choose low voltage when considering landscape lighting.

For best results choose only one focal point to light up with great intensity. That means using a lighting fixture that will illuminate at least 3 times the foot-candles of your ambient path, deck and lantern lighting. Your focal point may be your favorite foliage, statue, pond or other personal treasure.

Wall sconces also known as wall lanterns are critical to lighting vertical surfaces and creating a soft evenly lighted exterior. I would recommend using nothing greater than 25 watt light bulbs in wall lanterns.

Stylish and durable portable outdoor lamps are gaining in popularity. We offer portable outdoor rated lamps that boast shades made of the same tough materials used for outdoor umbrellas. Convenient and versatile.

Traditional Outdoor Lighting

One of my favorite traditional collections is the Covington Collection.

The traditionally minded design of this outdoor lighting collection is paired with a crystal glass that radiates style and crispness, creating enviable curb appeal.

The Covington post lantern paired with the Covington decorative post is a brilliant combination that casts warm friendly illumination to your front or back yard.

The Covington surface mount post, because of the complimentary black finish and decorative form, will work well with nearly all of our post lantern lighting fixtures.

The outdoor wall lanterns from the Covington Collection are available in small, medium and large and two different finishes. The medium wall lanterns are perfect for flanking your front door. The large lanterns are great around the perimeter of your home and look great flanking your garage door.

Last but not least, the Covington outdoor lighting pendant is simply a classic look that belongs under your favorite porch or illuminating your patio lounge.

Pendant Lighting Fixtures

With all you've heard about pendant light fixtures, you're probably ready to run right out and buy one. Undoubtedly they offer much appeal in terms not only of effective illumination, but also in terms of beauty and unique style. Before you purchase, however, there are a few things to consider.

Careful planning is key to developing the best plan for lighting any part of your home. Consider the area you plan to light, the size of the area, and decorating elements already in the room before you make a purchase. Pendant lights can serve as a main aspect of your room's decor or successfully blend with other accessories for a smooth and stylishly coordinated look. Often, pendant lights can be purchased with coordinated fixtures, such as wall sconces, table lamps, and flush-mount ceiling fixtures.

Consider your budget. With so many styles available and so much price variation, you are sure to find something at a price you can afford. Keep in mind, however, the importance of selecting quality pendants. It is best to choose the highest-quality pendants you can afford. Buying a cheaply-constructed pendant to save a few bucks will only cost you more in the long run when you have to replace it after it breaks or simply stops working. Buying top-quality pendant fixtures not only saves you money over time, but also allows for the enjoyment of your fixtures for many years to come.

Visit ALA-member, Lighting4sale lighting showroom for both high-quality fixtures and valuable advice.

Ceiling Fans With Lights

Ceiling fans with lights are a good way to add light to your home while saving money on your energy bills. Most individuals are aware that ceiling fans can help them save money in the summer (up to 40 percent off cooling costs), but many are unaware of the savings ceiling fans can offer during the winter (up to 10 percent off heating costs). Perhaps most surprisingly, ceiling fans typically use as little energy as a 100-watt light bulb. Convenience is also a benefit, as today's ceiling fans often have remotes that provide speed and dimming options.

Ceiling fans are appropriate for use in many rooms of your home, including the kitchen, dining room, patio, and bathroom. They come in a wide selection of styles and can be coordinated to complement any type of home decor. Common styles include polished brass, antique brass, iron, nickel, chrome, black, and real wood veneers. There is much variation in color as well, with ceiling fans available in colors ranging from earth tones to vibrant solids. Ceiling fan lights offer a wide range of choices also, from classic and contemporary to futuristic and retro, with marble, crystal, or opal often added to the fixture shade as decorative enhancements.

By far, the most important part of a ceiling fan is its motor. The motor works to both drive the movement of the blades as well as to provide for quiet operation. Lower-quality home center ceiling fans with less-powerful motors may be less expensive, but have the disadvantages of noisier operation, higher operating temperatures, and dramatically lower air circulation. Additionally, they tend to warp, lose balance, and even break down over time. For optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity, a motor with heavy-duty windings and perpetually lubricated sealed bearings is of maximum importance.

Fan blades have a great effect on air circulation. For ideal circulation, it is important that fan blade brackets be fixed to keep the blade at a 12-15 degree angle. For durability, select a fan with a high-quality blade finish to protect against tarnishing, fading, and blistering. Since ceiling fans and light fixtures become a part of your home, adding both beauty and value, it is wise to purchase the best fixtures available. For high-quality lighting in all the latest styles, visit Lighting4sale, an ALA-member lighting showroom.