Ceiling Lights

How to Safely Replace A Ceiling Light

by admin · Apr 5, 2024

Ceiling lights are a must-have feature in any room. Whether you don’t like the previous homeowner’s taste or you’re just ready for an update, ceiling lights can revitalize your home space. It may be even easier than you think–just follow these steps to safely switch out those old light fixtures for a new look.

What you’ll need:

Screwdriver
Step ladder
Voltage detector

You may also need:

Wire cutters
Wire strippers
Pliers
Painter’s tape
An extra set of hands

Part 1: Remove Old Fixture

Step 1: Turn off power

Shutting off the electricity is important to your safety. Locate the switchboard for the room you are working in and flip the switch. If you’re not sure where the switchboard is, check the basement or garage. It might also be in the front of the house or near the entrance.

Once you’ve flipped the switch for the room with the ceiling light, go back into the room and flip the switch a few times to make sure the power is off. Then, leave the light switch in the off position. Make sure you lock the circuit box or leave a note indicating that you are working.

Step 2: Remove cover and bulbs

Use a stable step ladder to reach your ceiling light. Hold the cover, or the visible, outside piece of the light fixture, in place with one hand. Loosen the screws with a screwdriver in the other. (For heavy or large fixtures, it’s best to have someone else hold on while you work on the screws.

Once the cover is removed, unscrew the light bulbs and set them aside.

Step 3: Lower the fixture base

With the cover removed, you will be able to see the base–the part of the light fixture that attaches directly to the ceiling. Typically, the base will have tabs or nuts and screws securing it. Loosen the nuts or screws, then lower the base to access the wiring (In the rare case you’re unable to find the screws, search for the installation manual online. You can also take a picture of your base and bring it into our showroom – we’ll take a look and help you figure it out!)

Until you have disconnected the wiring, you will want to lower the base but not remove it completely—an easy way to do this is by securing it with painter’s tape or having someone else hold it in place.

Step 4: Disconnect the wires

Once you have uncovered the space behind the old light fixture, there should be a junction box where wires are connected and stored. Start by removing the caps or tape covering the wire connections. The caps will come off when twisted counterclockwise.

Pro Tip: Take a picture beforehand so you can remember exactly how everything was put together.

Part 2: Connect the Wiring

Step 1: Test voltage

Test each exposed wire by touching it with the tip of your voltage detector.

If the voltage detector lights up, there is a current running through, and the wire is unsafe to touch. Double-check your circuit box and ensure the switch is still flipped.

Once you’re sure there is no electrical current, you are safe to continue working with the wires.

Untangle the wires and detach the fixture from the ceiling completely. Either hand off to someone below or carefully carry it down the ladder.

Step 2: Check wires

Frayed wires can be hazardous -if there is any fraying on the end of the wires, trim them down with wire cutters. Then, strip off any insulation on the outside with wire strippers. You only need to strip about ½ inch of insulation for the wire connection.

Pro Tip: Check your new fixture’s installation recommendations carefully. If you’re installing a heavy fixture such as a ceiling fan or chandelier, you may also need to install an additional support in the ceiling.

Step 3: Match and Attach

Electrical wires are color-coded. Black or red are hot wires, white is neutral, and green or bare copper are ground wires. A grounding wire sometimes connects to a grounding screw instead of another wire. Look for a matching wire in your ceiling for each wire in your fixture.

Twist together each matching wire. Either by hand or with pliers, hold the exposed ends side by side with one hand and twist with the other. (This is where your picture of the original fixture’s wiring comes in handy.)

Now that the wires are connected, it’s important to cover the exposed ends again. Screw the wire caps on by twisting clockwise over the connected ends until they hold the wires tightly in place. If your original fixture didn’t have wire caps, you can use electrical tape as well.

Make sure to check the owner’s manual for specific instructions—for example, you might have an extra red wire that connects to a black wire. If you don’t have any instructions, generally you will be fine with just matching the correct wire colors.

Part 3: Install New Fixture

Step 1: Replace junction box

With all your wiring safe and sound, the junction box is ready to be put back into place. Tighten the screws securely against the bracket until Fold the wires up into the box so they will be hidden behind the ceiling light.

Step 2: Attach new fixture

There are several different ways your new light fixture base could attach to the ceiling—these are the most common ways. As always, check the owner’s manual for anything specific or unique about your light.

Securely attach the light base by positioning it over the mounting screws. Place a metal nut on each screw and twist by hand until they are tightly holding the base in place.

If the fixture has a mounting bracket, connect the mounting bracket to the junction box first, then hang the base over the screws.

If it’s a keyhole shape, adjust the base so the screws slide into the smaller grooves and then tighten the screws with a screwdriver until they are holding the base securely.

Step 3: Install light bulbs

Now that your base is set, it’s time to add the light bulbs. Make sure you have the correct wattage—the fixture typically indicates its maximum wattage on the package or owner’s manual.

When choosing which bulbs to use, the lower the wattage the safer. Most light fixtures are safe with up to 60 watt incandescent bulbs. You may also want to consider more eco-friendly choices, such as CFL or LED bulbs. These options have lower wattage but produce the same amount of lighting, saving you money on electricity in the long run.

Test the bulbs by turning the electricity back on—flip the switch on the circuit breaker then turn on the room light switch. If it is flickering, dim, or not turning on at all, turn the electricity off again and check everything—look for loose connections or mismatched wires. If your lights are bright and solid, you are ready for the final step.

Step 5: Attach cover

Flip the light switch and circuit breaker back off before installing anything else. Take your light fixture’s shade, cover, or top and climb back up the ladder. Attach it to the base by twisting screws or attaching pieces until everything is tight and secure. If it’s a hanging light, make sure it’s at the proper height before finishing your work. Every light has different connecting components, so check your owner’s manual and just make sure it’s snug.

And there you have it, your guide for installing a new, updated ceiling light. Now that you know how to install it, make sure to visit our showroom to choose the perfect fixture for your ceiling!

Gorgeous Nature-Inspired Rooms You’ll Want to Escape To Immediately

by admin · Mar 29, 2024

When you’re designing your house, finding inspiration is key. Taking a step outside can give you a fresh perspective – there’s no better inspiration than mother nature herself! No matter what space you’re working on, drawing from the beauty of nature will make your home feel like paradise.

The combination of earth tones and natural materials in these rooms almost makes them feel more like they should be in National Geographic than a home decor magazine – and we mean that in the very best way possible.

Bathrooms

Picture yourself after a long day of work. You’re exhausted, and what you need more than anything is a moment to yourself. You finally get some uninterrupted time to sit in the warmth of the tub and it feels good. The anxiety melts away. Your bathroom can be a natural refuge from your stress. When you put a little effort into your bathroom, it’ll pay off!

The owner of this room has a green thumb that brings the whole room to life. To complement the plants, they chose a macrame chandelier that’s uniquely fitted for this bathroom. Warm wood and wicker also feel right at home in this organic space. The black furniture and tub ground the look, bringing an effortless cohesiveness. You’d have a hard time feeling anything but relaxed here.

This light and airy space incorporates natural materials like wicker and terracotta pots. The foolproof combination of warm wood tones, green plants, and neutral, natural colors will always leave you feeling like you’re stepping into an oasis! This room is definitely a no-interruption zone.

If it was possible (or ethical) to steal a bathtub, we’d be walking out of this bathroom hauling this one! The wood exterior is a nature enthusiast’s dream base for relaxation. The twinkling lights behind it are also a charming touch to give the bath a glow.

Living Rooms

The living room is the main hub of the house. It’s where work, relax, and entertain guests – you live here. Whether you choose a paired back approach or go full maximalist and pull out all the stops, make sure to include some natural materials to ground yourself and make the living room feel more like home.

Neutrals are the star of the show in this living room. We love the texture the pendant light brings and how it coordinates with the mirror frame and the accessories in the room. The color palette may be limited, but each piece works together to create a neutral haven where texture is the star of the show.

This nature-inspired design would work well in a space of any size. When you’re strapped for square footage, picking a smaller couch that will still accommodate your needs is a smart choice. A pendant light also shows creativity since it won’t take up any extra floor space. It’ll give you the ambiance for an intimate conversation or some light for reading. The texture of the wicker and wood here is also stunning. Adding burnt orange brings a tiny pop of color to make you feel extra happy!

This colorful living room is oozing with style! Who said organic design has to be boring? We can’t help but feel insanely jealous of whoever owns this room. Everything here – the colors, textiles, plants, and warm wood furniture – is to die for. Don’t be afraid to go bold and bright if it makes you happy. This is a living room anyone would be lucky to come home to!

This living space uses nearly all natural materials and earth tones in its design to make a cozy conversation space. From the wood ceilings to the stone accents, the textures here are immaculate. Everything feels warm and welcoming. A wood ceiling fan matches all the decor and will give this homeowner an extra breeze on a hot summer day.

Bedrooms

The bedroom is the best place to be a little braver with your decor. It’s the place you should feel the most comfortable being yourself. Pick bolder earth tones and bring in all the natural materials to create a place that will allow you to be the best version of yourself!

This cozy room pulls out all the stops. The way the headboard coordinates with the gorgeous pendant lights has our jaws on the floor! They give the room a natural glow and highlight that warm orange wall. To some a deep, rich color like this can be intimidating, but this bedroom is the perfect example of what can happen when the risk pays off.

Going dark on the paint can be risky, but using light, warm colors to contrast it is a clever way to combat any heaviness and create balance. The pendant above the bed is a gorgeous focal point that ties in with the wicker and wood. A fixture like this gives off soothing, soft lighting that helps to prepare yourself for a good night’s rest.

If light and airy is more your speed, use this room as inspiration. Natural textiles bring layers of texture and interest to this bedroom that make it feel cozy and inviting. The rugs and layered blankets make this space feel lived-in without feeling cluttered. Sheer curtains allow for lots of diffused natural light for a dreamy daytime vibe, and will reflect just the right amount of light at night to create a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere.

Kitchens

No matter your kitchen’s current style, a few extra touches from nature can make it a gathering space where you’ll love to spend time preparing and sharing food with your loved ones.

In a small space like this, details matter. The warmth in the butcher block counters and floating shelves stands out against the stark white of cabinets, creating a sense of balance without filling the space up with accessories. When space is small, a single bold choice is a great way to give it some personality – these mismatched pendants do just that! And of course, no nature-inspired space is complete without a little green. In a space full of hard lines, this pothos softens the edges just a little – and it’s perfect for the out-of-the way nook in kitchen since it won’t require much light.

Going with darker textured cabinets was a bold move here. They almost look like they were carved straight from a mountain! In another space, they might look more industrial, but with the wicker pendant and basket, the white tiled backsplash, and the plants for accessories, it gives modern organic. The sharpness of the hard edges and metallic textures is softened by the natural textures and shapes throughout the space, like the draped pendant lighting – a smart choice that balances the design and makes it easier to see what you’re doing while you prep dinner.

This kitchen is a marriage of light and airy and organic design. The green styled cabinets are perfect for storing the most beautiful cookware and dishes. Adding fresh flowers makes a kitchen feel fresh and beautiful. However, the icing on this wedding cake is the lighting! Those cute white pendants and this kitchen are a match made in heaven. They fit the space perfectly and will give you some much-needed task lighting.

Nooks

Almost everyone has that spare corner in their home that they just can’t quite figure out what to do with. Adding a seating nook for reading or working one of our favorite tips to make a space feel cozy and welcoming.

This little nook looks like Shangri-la in the middle of a house! Get cozy with a book and a blanket or just take a little rest here for some mid-day rejuvenation. Everything about this leans into the wildness of the natural world. Even the lighting is freeform and organic, these hanging pendants make this space feel like magic and will give you light to read no matter the time of day.

This boho-coastal nook is just what the doctor ordered for some me-time. We love a good hammock – and this one is just begging to be relaxed in. The driftwood frame with the macrame hammock turns this space from an empty white corner into a light and airy refuge. The beaded chandelier is an unexpected twist that ties perfectly with the accessories, making this nook feel like it’s just a few steps away from the beach.

We can tell every element in this picture was chosen intentionally because it works together so well. From the wood and wicker furniture to a neutral color palette with a grounding green on the wall, you can’t get more organic than this! The dome desk lamp in white is a smart choice for task lighting – its small footprint doesn’t eat up work space, and the height and color make it pop against the dark wall behind it. This work nook may be small in size, but not in style.

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Using an earthy color palette and natural materials in your design is nothing short of gorgeous when it’s done well. We love this trend and want to help you create it in your home. Come visit Super Lite and show us what inspires you. We’ll help you the find the perfect lighting solutions to create your own natural sanctuary.

Kitchen Light Fixtures 101

by admin · Feb 16, 2024

Whether you’re building or renovating, understanding your lighting options and making smart choices will completely transform the way your kitchen looks and feels.

Keep in mind – your kitchen will look best with multiple types of lighting! One light overhead just won’t do the room justice – and it probably won’t give off enough light to cook safely. Your best bet is to go with a mix of ambient (overhead, general lighting) and task (specific to place or purpose) lighting to make your kitchen both beautiful and functional.

Here’s a quick guide to the different types of light fixtures you’ll find in kitchens.

Pendants

Pendant lights hang down from the ceiling, and typically only have one bulb. They’re most often used over countertops like a kitchen island or peninsula. Pendants come in a huge variety of colors, shapes, and styles.

Recessed

Many modern kitchens now include recessed lighting. Recessed lights give off great light without having a fixture in the ceiling that blocks the view and needs dusting. Recessed lights can be used all over the ceiling to create general ambient light, or placed over countertops to create task lighting for chopping and cooking.

Chandelier

While this look may not be for everyone, for those who love having some extra sparkle in their kitchen, a chandelier is an excellent choice. A chandelier is a light fixture that hangs down from the ceiling and has multiple lights that shine out and around the room.

Skylight

Okay, so this might not be a light fixture, but this type of kitchen light is unconventional in the best way possible. When combined with other light fixtures, a skylight makes a stunning statement that earned it an honorary place on our life. A skylight is, essentially, a window in the ceiling or roof of the house. It lets natural light flood into the room, filling it with bright white light. While they may only be “useful” during the day, they’re a beautiful addition to any kitchen.

Under-Cabinet Lighting

These tiny fixtures pack a powerful punch! Mounting lights underneath your wall cabinets will brighten your countertops, making it an easy place to prepare food. They’re also a great addition for late-night snacking – they give off enough light to see in the kitchen without having to be blinded by the full power of the ceiling lights. Under-cabinet lights come in a lot of shapes and sizes – you can get small, individual lights like these, or strips of LED lights that give off an even glow. Many are battery-powered, so they’re easy to install – but you can also have them hard wired to a switch (our favorite option!)

Cove Lighting

If your kitchen has a beautiful coved ceiling like this one, adding a small strip of inexpensive LED lights around the interior of the structure can create a beautiful, high-end look for next to nothing.

Ceiling Fan

While it may not be the first thing you think about when you hear “kitchen lighting” – a ceiling fan can be a great choice for the kitchen! It’s most commonly found in kitchens with high ceilings or in large great rooms (spaces that combine kitchen, dining, and living areas) to help keep air circulating and comfortable across the larger space. It’s also the perfect option for outdoor kitchens to help keep insects at bay while you’re preparing and enjoying your meal.

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Regardless of which fixtures you choose for your kitchen, as long as you make sure that your countertops are well-lit and the light levels are comfortable for the way you use the room, you should be in great shape to enjoy your kitchen for years to come.

If you’re not sure which fixtures would be best for your kitchen, or if you need help arranging your fixtures in the best positions for your space, stop by our showroom and chat with one of our lighting specialists! We’ll give you expert advice tailored to your room and help you get on your way to lighting your home just the way you like it.

5 Timeless Trends That Are Here to Stay

by admin · Oct 6, 2023

Trends come and go, but some have more lasting impact than others. Distinctive trends can date a home, making it seem old-fashioned and undesirable, while classic trends fit into any space at any time. As we’ve watched the market, we’ve seen some very popular trends that show plenty of staying power. If you’re debating how to update your home, these trends may be right for you!

Industrial/Urban Lighting

This new movement of industrial/urban themed lighting is top of the list! The style reaches back to the origins of modern lighting, with echoes of the Industrial Revolution in each unassuming fixture. Beauty and function come together beautifully in this timeless, practical look.

Statement Piece Décor

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A bold chandelier, flashy semi-flush mounts, exaggerated wall hanging, or splendid sconces, statement piece lighting décor is a powerful trend. Statement pieces are meant to have a much more visual impact that simply lighting a space. It is meant to challenge traditional style norms, and the risk is worth it! Statement pieces draw the eye, bring attention to your home décor, and add some pizzazz to functional spaces without having to repaint or redecorate. Try one and you’ll likely be surprised at the impact it has!

Lanterns

As we watch trends come and go, it is hard not to notice that most styles always incorporate lanterns in some way. There are lanterns adapted to fit any space and any style: iron lanterns, polished nickel lanterns, rope lanterns, all glass lanterns, glassless lanterns. Bringing a lantern inside adds an outdoor vibe to your home and makes the space feel more airy and open, in addition to accenting your indoor décor.

Gold, Gold, Gold

Gold finishes have been around since the invention of light (and modern lighting) and continue to resurface in nearly all trends. In modern lighting, it’s a timeless accent that has withstood the test of time, stretching from the late 1800’s to the present. That’s not to say gold hasn’t changed—gold finishes range from honed brass to polished to currently matte gold. The options, and the long-lasting potential, are endless.

Natural Light

Décor, architecture, lighting, color palettes, and countless design elements are all shaped by natural light. It impacts mood, health, room function, the appearance of colors and so much more! Whether you are lightening the wall colors to emphasize existing light or updating your window covers to allow more natural light, mimicking and incorporating lots of natural light is a trend sure to never end.

Homes with trendy décor and lighting have a better resell value than outdated, old-fashioned homes. Even more, small updates in your home can improve the way you feel about it right now! A few upgrades will increase your home value, give it a long-term look, and add some freshness to your space. At Super Lite we’re committed to giving you the best products in any style, so we’ll help you find one that speaks to you!

6 Popular Interior Design Styles You Need to Know

by admin · Aug 11, 2023

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all of the styles and options when it’s time to make an update to your home. There are hundreds of design tips and style trends out there, and it’s hard to know where to start! We’ve put together a list of some of the most popular design trends with simple explanations and some ideas to get you started! Get ready to transform your home into a space you’ll never want to leave!

Minimalism

The main concept of this interior design style is that “less is more.” The hallmarks of Minimalism are few furniture pieces, limited or monochromatic color schemes, clean lines, streamlined shapes, and no clutter.

Start creating your Minimalist space by removing all clutter and accessories then find furniture and fixtures that have simple shapes and clean lines. Minimalist designs need plenty of light to give a sense of openness, but the goal is for the light itself to blend into the design without the fixtures distracting the eye. Hidden perimeter lighting, recessed lights, and simple track lights are good options in main areas. In your kitchen and bathrooms, try LED light strips underneath cabinets and at the bottom of floating vanities. In every space, stick with a limited neutral color palette, or go monochromatic for a big visual impact.

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For more Minimalist design inspo, check out Leibal for some truly awe-inspiring minimalist designs that’ll have you thinking hard about paring down!

Mid-Century Modern

Mid-Century Modern design is full of perfectly balanced juxtapositions. Soft, organic lines and natural wood are combined with harder, geometric shapes and man-made materials like plastic, vinyl, and Lucite. Form follows function in this design which has strong ties to minimalism, so furniture and accessories should serve a purpose and help to keep the room clutter free.

To get the look, find functional furniture pieces that will help keep your space organized and clutter to a minimum. Look for one or two showstopper pieces that you love and use them to anchor your room, then finish out your space with geometric and organic pieces that work together to give your room a polished feel. Keep the minimalist feel by only using accessories that serve a purpose, like a vase or a light fixture. Mid-Century light fixtures and lamps come in a huge variety of materials, colors, and price points, which makes them an ideal way to add your own personal touch to your Mid-Century design!

For more Mid-Century Modern inspiration, take a look at the incredible designs over at Destination Eichler to see great ways you can incorporate this design style into your home!

Scandinavian

Scandinavian design came to be in the 1930s, and is inspired by the nature, climate, and simple designs of the Nordic region. While similar to Mid-Century Modern design which often explores deeper colors and designs, Scandinavian design is all about maximizing light with lots of whites and neutrals. It has a minimalist feel with no clutter, simple yet beautiful and furniture that’s functional, and a light neutral color palette with pops of playful accent colors.

To get the look, avoid wall to wall carpeting and opt for light or white walls. Choose furniture that is both simple and functional that will help keep your space feeling organized and fresh. Maximizing natural light is very important in Scandinavian design. If your space isn’t blessed with big windows, fun and playful Scandinavian-inspired pendant lights and floor lamps are easy to find! Add them anywhere in your room that’s shadowy to bring the light in! Add warmth to your space with soft organic fabrics like a chunky wool blanket. Look for functional accessories with soft edges and clean lines, and don’t be afraid to mix in vintage and traditional elements to get that Scandinavian design vibe just right.

If you want to see more of this style, Niki Brantmark at My Scandinavian Home runs a delightful blog full of light and bright Scandinavian designs that’ll have you painting your walls white and installing a new pendant light by next weekend!

Eco Design

For the environmentally-conscious individual, this next design style is all about sustainability. Eco Design appears very similar to Minimalist and Scandinavian designs due to the simple, paired back feel and the use of natural materials, but it centers around sustainability.

To get this style right, pay attention to the materials you choose when you’re designing your space. Look for earth-friendly materials like cotton, bamboo, wood, and recycled materials. Upcycle when you can, and look to nature for your color palette. Accent your space with plants to help bring the outside in. Natural light is best, but if you live somewhere that doesn’t have a wall of windows, you can bring in extra light with eco-friendly lamps and fixtures like a bamboo pendant light. This is a great design style for those who love to repurpose and restore!

If you need some Eco-friendly design inspo, Moore House Family is a company that restores old homes using natural and sustainable elements, and they love to break the mold in their designs!

Industrial Loft

This style got its start when big cities started converting old industrial warehouses into housing. These spaces had large windows and open floor plans, and became home to a community of artists and creatives who added modern touches, but left the original character of the building. Today, Industrial Loft design is making its way into townhouses and suburban homes as homeowners everywhere are falling in love with this unique combination of raw textures and modern finishes.

To get this look, find ways to incorporate raw and rustic materials into your space like exposed brick, cement, and steel. To keep it from feeling too harsh and cold, warm up your space with reclaimed wood furniture and accessories, and overstuffed armchairs or leather sofas. Light your rooms with warehouse-inspired, powder-coated light fixtures with exposed bulbs. This design loves to tell a story, so look for vintage lighting and accessories with a history to add some character to your space.

To see some breathtaking Industrial Loft designs, check out My Warehouse Home’s Instagram page to get your ideas flowing!

Maximal Minimalism

This design style is a bold and exciting compromise between Minimalism, which is all about simplifying, and Maximalism, a design style where bigger, bolder, and busier all mean better. If the calm, clean, relaxing vibe of Minimalism appeals to you but it feels too sterile, and the bubbly, bold, creative feel of Maximalism feels inspiring but chaotic, then this unlikely combination of minimalist ideals and maximalist colors, patterns, and textures might be for you!

You can keep your sleek and uncluttered aesthetic, but go ahead and throw that neutral color palette out the window! Go big with a bold mural on the wall or a brightly colored sofa. Light your minimal with simple fixtures or recessed lights, but use your lighting to add to your design. Consider adding LED bulbs or rope lights that change colors with the push of a button to add some drama to your space when the time feels right! This design style is still minimalism at heart, but it’s very art-centered. Give your space a personality! The goal is to give your clean lines and simple shapes a beautifully artistic backdrop.

It’s Time To Get Started!

You make the rules in your space! If Mid-Century Mod is your thing, dive in! If you like bits and pieces of a few different styles, don’t be afraid to mix and match! Making your space reflect your own style is the best way to make your house a home. Be bold, experiment, and love where you live!

Does your home need a style refresh? Don’t forget to update your light fixtures too! Call the experts at Super Lite and they’ll help you figure out how to get the perfect ambiance for your new space.

9 Design Tips for Any Kitchen

by admin · Jul 14, 2023

Whether you’re the kind of cook who makes quick and easy meals after an exhausting workday or you’re a foodie dreaming of your own 5-star restaurant, the kitchen is one of the most important and well-used rooms in any home. For maximum practically and atmosphere, a well-lit workspace is a must! Here are 9 design tips, with plenty of examples, for a practical and fashionable kitchen that anyone can enjoy.

1. Use Metallic Touches

A clean, open-concept workspace pairs well with these gorgeous silver fixtures, like a flavorful wine with a good meal. The large fixtures offset the empty space from high ceilings, yet they are still minimalist in detailing, so the look isn’t overbearing.

This kitchen embraces the dramatic: bold black cabinets and countertops offer a beautiful backdrop that allows striking metallic gold fixtures to hang front and center. The result is a showstopping kitchen with plenty of flair.

2. Incorporate Sleek Lines

Now you can whip up gourmet goodies in a glamorous space. This contemporary kitchen employs a beautifully streamlined design. Light woods and belled glass fixtures provide an air of graceful elegance, fit for any aspiring 5-star chef.

These modern lights have a beautifully chic silhouette. Evenly spaced with the rest of the room’s features, like the long island and the simple, sleek cabinet hardware, these lights make good use of visual lines and the space as a whole, giving this kitchen a cohesive look.

3. Find Pieces with Function and Flair

When you’re hosting guests and have too many different dishes and sides planned, it can really turn up the heat in your kitchen. Install a fan to provide necessary light and a comfortable breeze to keep temperatures under control. Plus, everyone will be a fan of this chic look!

Bright lighting beneath these cabinets creates a beautifully lit workspace for all of your food prep needs. These hidden light fixtures blend in with the outline of the rest of the kitchen, leaving the smooth lines of the hardware, appliances, and cabinets unbroken for a lovely modern aesthetic.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Bare Some Bulb

Sometimes, a little goes a long way: here, simple bulbs hanging from the ceiling make for a gorgeous fixture. These bare bulbs are neat enough and placed deliberately enough that the resulting group adds an artistic touch.

If you’re a woodsy soul, use your style to bring the outdoors in. The mixture of bulbs and circular metallic elements makes these fixtures look like lanterns, giving this kitchen a charmingly rustic feel. Now, you can pretend you’re camping every day – all from the comfort of your own kitchen.

These fixtures are stylishly understated. The exposed bulbs mix with the other natural touches in the room, like the simple tile and the wood counters, for an organically home-y style. (Of course, a furry friend never hurts to make a room feel like home, either).

5. Use Shades to Express Unique Style

If you share a living space but not the same design tastes, then there’s no need to fight; vastly different styles can be made to work together, with stunning results. Here, the metal shades provide a touch of industrial flair in an otherwise rustic room, bringing the two styles in harmony with each other.

Kitchens aren’t just a workspace – they’re also where you can spend restful Sunday afternoons baking cookies or brownies (and licking the batter from the bowl). Soft colors and sophisticated shades give this kitchen a calming, fresh air, perfect for enjoying yourself as you bake some sweet treats!

6. Maximize Texture

Cool textures can give any room a stylish edge, and the kitchen is no exception. These wire shades have some heaviness to them, and the colors complement the wood counters and beams, creating an appearance that is perfectly tied-together.

Sometimes, subtle features can be the most striking. These barely-there wire shades give a little bit of body to the lights, without any bulkiness. This textured fixture makes the space feel like a delicate expression of a distinctive style.

When in doubt about the direction of your design, try pulling ideas from textures you already have in the room. Here, these lights boast a mix metal and wood that complements the seating, making this room look flawlessly coordinated.

7. Soften the Space with New-Age Candles

Who says candles have to be a thing of the past? If you love the aesthetic appeal of candles but aren’t willing to risk the potential fire hazard, never fear. You can bring modern-age candles into your design by combining electric candles and modern metalwork in a beautifully polished piece. Extra bonus: you don’t have to tidy up any wax.

If sharp lines and angles aren’t your deal, but you like the look of the candles, then play with the shape of the piece. Here, a round metal setting still sets these candles apart, making for this a tasteful piece for any kitchen.

8. Use Unusual Shapes

Who needs date night in an expensive, stuffy restaurant when you can make magic in your own kitchen? The iron spirals around these candle-like fixtures add a romantic charm to a beautiful space. Whether you’re trying to impress a new S.O. or you’re just cooking something new with your longtime partner, this kitchen is a sweet space to cook a wonderful dinner for two.

This colorful kitchen embraces an eclectic spirit. The light fixture especially embodies this style: the multitude of bulbs, hung at varying lengths, has a unique look that suits this kitchen’s unusual color and vibrant atmosphere.

9. Add a Pop of Color

On lazy Saturday mornings, relax with your cup of coffee in this cozy kitchen. The soft shade of these domed fixtures gives the room a gentle touch of color, which subtly infuses the space with calming vibes.

This contemporary kitchen is perfect no matter what event you host! Set a line of dishes on this bar for a potluck or lay out hors d’oeuvre for a fancy dinner party. The tint of the glass in these fixtures provides a rich dab of color that complements the cabinets, resulting in a classy space for entertaining guests.

Moral of the story? With a little bit of good design, any kitchen can be a stylish, functional getaway. Depending on your style, layout, and budget, try embracing metallic finishes and bare bulbs. Throw in some dramatic colors, textures, and shapes for a breathtaking look. You could even try electric candles or unique shades to emphasize the atmosphere of the space. Whatever you decide to do, Super Lite is here for your design needs!

6 Easy Ways to Increase Your Home Value

by admin · Jul 7, 2023

As millennials flood the housing market, it might be a great time to think about how you can maximize your home value for sale now or in the future. How can you get the most bang for your buck, avoid never-ending renovations, and steer clear of overwhelming DIY projects? Here are six easy ways to increase your home value, each taking no more than a weekend.

1. Update Your Light Fixtures

It’s a simple and surprising effective fix: updated light fixtures can change the mood, first impression, and perceived value of any room (and can easily be done on a budget). Try a new ceiling light in your master bedroom and compliment it with trendy lights that frame the bed. Style up your kitchen with pendant lights, or consider some chic, industrial exposed bulbs. Your bathroom is also a great place to re-imagine your lighting to maximize the limited space.

2. Stick with Neutral Paint

Be conscientious with your paint choices. Zillow’s 2018 Paint Color Analysis found that bright or custom colors can lower home value, so stick with neutral colors and use your decor (like artwork, flowers and plants, or textiles) to pull in brighter colors and personality. Greys, whites, tans, or simple wallpaper offer a wide range of possibilities for future home buyers, while still giving you room to create your perfect aesthetic.

3. Add LED Strip Lighting under the Cabinets

Easily upgrade and brighten your kitchen with LED strip lighting. They’re easy to buy, apply, and use, and they come in varied colors, tones, and sizes. Under-cabinet lighting is especially effective in small spaces, make cramped kitchens look bigger by reflecting light off the walls. Add an air of luxury with a little extra LED light!

4. Invest in Smart Technology

Smart thermostats, light bulbs and appliances bring your home value to the next level. In fact, the Zillow 2019 Design Forecast predicted smart technology as one of the top requests from today’s home buyers. Most smart bulbs and appliances pair conveniently with AI assistants such as Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri. In addition, smart thermostats can decrease your home’s carbon footprint and slash your utility costs with their custom settings.

5. Power Wash your Home’s Exterior

A good wash can be as effective as a new coat of paint, and at a fraction of the cost. No need to buy the machine, either, since Home Depot and other hardware stores rent them for an hourly or daily rate. Wait for a sunny afternoon, grab a power washer, and enjoy the visible transformation of your home’s exterior.

6. Add Outdoor Lighting

Potential buyers will appreciate the visual appeal and safety benefits of outdoor lighting. Illuminate pathways with small, solar powered lights, or add a couple motion-activated spotlights for the driveway. Flood lights can eliminate the risk of break ins, and backyard string lights make hosting evening gatherings easier than ever. The options are endless and flexible to any budget, so pick an outdoor lighting project and let it boost your home value!

We know time and money are limited, but there are plenty of cheap, easy ways to increase the value of your home even in the most competitive market. Whether you add a fresh coat of neutral paint or install a few interesting light fixtures, you can make your home a place where you, and potential buyers, want to be. For advice about lighting or anything else, call our design experts at Super Lite.