In this video , Jennifer shares with us how to choose our bedroom lighting. She recommends to have plenty of light coming from a few different sources. We bought our home a little over a year ago and haven’t gotten to the lights yet. I have terrible lighting in my home and watching this, makes me want to redo the entire house. One step at a time is what I have to say. I love how she ties in using fabric from say the comforter on the bed to embellish the lamp shades. I wish I was that crafty. This video gives a lot of tid bits on all different kinds of lights from lamps to sconces to chandeliers and more.
Transcription:
Hi, I’m Jennifer Cuff, home editor at Southern Living. In all bedrooms, ample light is a necessity. When designing your space, consider what you need and want, and then find ways to combine those desires with functional and pretty lighting. Having several sources of light is always the best way to go. A combination of overhead and tabletop or wall-mounted options give you a complete look that provides ambient, decorative and task light. Keeping the style and finishes of your fixtures similar ensures they will visually work well together.
Start with the lighting components around the bed. A pair of matching bedside lamps looks clean and symmetrical. Make sure that the height of your lamps is in proportion of the height of your headboard, and that the light is delivered near eye level. As an alternative to shaded lamps, consider task lighting. The look is a bit more industrial, and allows you to reposition the direction of light as needed. When there is no room for bedside tables, or your tabletop space is limited, a pair of wall-mounted sconces flanking the bed is a great solution. Sconces give off directional light that is perfect for reading.
The classic and always pretty approach is simple brass or nickel fixtures topped with fabric that are often pleated. For a more contemporary look, all metal sconces do the trick. Sleek and simple, this type of fixture tends to add a modern touch. You can also combine table lamps and wall sconces for even more lighting variety. Whatever your choice, make sure the lamp or sconce can handle a high-wattage bulb. Having your lights on dimmers is a huge plus. This will ensure you can control the amount of light to your specifications day and night. Now it’s time to look up. Don’t settle for a nondescript ceiling fixture. Instead, choose something that will enhance your room, and set the tone, whether dressy or casual.
An elegant beaded chandelier gives the room a dressy feel. A hanging glass lantern looks handsome and classic. Opt for an unusual and interesting fixture when appropriate. Everyone would expect a chandelier, but an industrial fixture really adds interest and originality to this eclectic room. Go the extra mile with custom lamp shades. They are an easy way to add color and texture. Simply embellish an inexpensive store-bought shade with a trim of ribbon or cord, or have a shade made of the same or coordinating fabric that you’ve used elsewhere in the room.
When it comes to lighting, don’t be afraid to try something different. Hanging pendant lights take the place of regular table lamps or wall-mounted sconces. Unexpected shades, such as these crisp red ones add refreshing pots of color. This sconce was mounted within, instead of next to an upholstered headboard. If your personal style is more eclectic, and has the look of being collected over time, then don’t buy fixtures in pairs, and instead, mix a variety of favorite found pieces. For more bedroom and lighting ideas, pick up a copy of Southern Living Magazine and visit southernliving.com.