Decorative Lighting Tips

If you want to improve the look of your home while also improving functionality, the right decorative lighting can make all the difference. Properly placed landscape lighting provides nighttime curb appeal and improves the overall safety around your house and garage. Inside, lights can make everyday tasks easier. A well-thought out plan for placement can accent the beautiful spaces inside while giving you the right kind of light to completely enjoy your home. Armstrong has the best electricians in Lubbock to help you with the installation process.

Aesthetics shouldn’t be the only concern, however. The right fixtures and bulbs can also save money on energy costs. Sources say expected outcomes from home lighting is homeowner comfort, the lights are easily controlled, and the fixtures are energy efficient. 

Before You Decide On Decorative Lighting, Consider These Factors

Homeowners in the Lubbock, TX area have many types of decorative lighting available from which to choose. Whether they need interior table lamps, wall sconces, ceiling fixtures, chandeliers, pendants, or outdoor lighting choices, options come in many different shapes and sizes. Consider the following common factors before you decide on which decorative light options meet your needs. 

1. Cost

Cost can be one the biggest variables when choosing decorative lighting. For example, a custom-designed fixture will cost more than one that’s ready-made. Cost will also be affected by the materials the fixture is made of, whether wood, metal, ceramic, or a combination. The overall size needed can also greatly impact the bottom line. Generally speaking, the larger the light fixture, the higher the likelihood that it will cost more. 

How ornate the fixture is will also affect the overall cost; the fancier the look, the more you’re likely to pay.

The point of cost considerations is: If budget is a primary factor, look at all the elements affecting price when adding decorative lighting to your home. Inexpensive options will have a similar impact on the look, safety, efficiency, and usability of your home. Choose what works best for the money you have available. If you are looking for an electrician in Lubbock, Armstrong can guide you in the right direction for your lighting options, as well. 

2. Durability

When choosing decorative lighting durability is a factor to consider, especially for outdoor lighting. Weather can be brutal on certain types of materials, and the extreme temperatures from winter to summer in the Lubbock, TX area can greatly affect your choices. To get the most from your investment, do your research up front to discern the materials that will give you the look you want while still standing up under various conditions. Some great durable outdoor options are:

• Copper: Very popular because of the pleasing weathered patina that comes with age
• Brass: High quality that holds up well in weather conditions.
• Aluminum: A less expensive metal that will deteriorate over time, but specific finishes like powder coating can help.
• Stainless Steel: Can withstand weather, especially with the proper finish but will need regular cleaning to maintain a good look.

Obviously, the elements will have no bearing on indoor decorative lighting choices. However, consider the use of the space for the lighting and the overall style when choosing the lighting desired. You’ll want the decorative lighting chosen to stand up to the normal wear and tear of everyday use, but the choices of materials for decorative indoor lighting are many. Some of the most popular are:

• Metal: Virtually any type will work indoors. The most important factor in choosing the type is the overall style of the area in which it will be used and the color scheme. Many wall sconces are made of metal.
• Plastic: Depending on the daily use and possible wear and tear, plastic light fixtures can be highly functional and are very budget friendly.
• Wood: Wood is highly favorable and comes in many natural and painted finishes.
• Combinations: Many decorative lighting fixtures are a combination of the finishes mentioned above and meet the budget and aesthetic needs of homeowners. 

To ensure that you install durable decorative lights, be sure to hire a reputable company within your area. The experts at Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric have years of experience providing electrical services. We have the best electricians in the Lubbock area!

3. Placement

Typically, when installing decorative lighting, you’ll want to be sure to place them where people use them the most. For example, if you decide to hang decorative lights above your dining table, make sure that they don’t interfere with the view of diners seated at the table. Other considerations are proximity to outlets for table lamps, and if you have any spectacular outside views, you’ll want to be sure any fixtures aren’t in the way. If you’d like to emphasize specific artwork, while not necessarily decorative, eyeball recessed lighting has the capability to be aimed in many directions to suit individual needs.

4. Size

Size is a consideration, but ultimately how large the decorative lighting fixture is depends greatly on the space in which it will be used. Generally speaking, smaller fixtures are better suited for small spaces, like a hallway, while larger ones are great for more expansive areas like a grand entryway. For example, when choosing whether a particular chandelier will work for your space, add the width and length measurements (in feet) of the room together, then convert to inches. The answer in inches should be the maximum diameter of your fixture. So if your room is 10 feet by 12 feet, the diameter of the chandelier should be about 22 inches. 

5. Style

There is no rule of thumb to dictate what style to choose for decorative lighting other than the choice should complement the home’s overall interior design style. Modern light fixtures that are more sleek with smooth lines may be better suited in a home with a modern architectural style. Conversely, a more traditional home may be more aptly appointed with classic style decorative lighting. 

Of course, personal style and taste of the homeowner is always the primary consideration and many prefer to mix styles in an eclectic fashion that best complements the combination of the furniture, decorative items, and use of the space.

When you’re ready to move forward with installing decorative lighting in the Lubbock, TX area, you better call Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric right away. Their expert electricians always know how to brighten your day.

6. Functionality

The final most important consideration when choosing decorative lighting is functionality. For indoor lighting, dimmer switches allow you to control the amount of lighting in a space, which helps with the overall atmosphere of the room. Many come with a remote control, keeping versatility and ease of use at your fingertips.

Another key element of function and efficiency, is choosing the right light bulb for the application for which it is to be used. It’s essential to hire professional and experienced Lubbock electricians to evaluate your home or office before you decide to ensure you get the best bulbs and decorative light solutions that meet your needs and budget.

Call Armstrong to Install Your Home’s Decorative Lighting

To learn more about how to spruce up your home inside and outside with updated and more energy efficient decorative lighting solutions in the Lubbock, TX area, better call Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric!