Ceiling Lights

How to Safely Install a Ceiling Fan

by admin · Mar 29, 2024

Installing a new ceiling fan is a cheap way to save on energy costs all year without compromising on comfort. In the summer, ceiling fans cool down the house by creating a breeze. In the winter, they help circulate the heated air to warm the whole room evenly.

Putting in a ceiling fan is a win-win for your comfort levels and your budget – and it’s a pretty simple DIY project for homeowners. Plan on giving yourself a few hours (depending on the type of fan and your experience level with lighting DIYs), and grab a friend that can help you hold things in place while you work.

If you’re buying a ceiling fan new, it should come with thorough installation instructions. We always recommend following those instructions exactly to be sure that your fan is installed safely and properly. If you’re installing a secondhand fan, you may be able to find the installation guide online by searching with the model number on the fan. Either way, we’ll walk you through the basic steps here so that you can prepare.

1. Preparation

Before you break out your tool belt, make sure you have a good plan in place. There’s nothing worse than being in the middle of a project and realizing you don’t have everything you need to complete the task.

Tool Checklist

Before you take on a ceiling fan installation project, make sure you have all the tools you need so you don’t have to rush off to your local hardware store for a last-minute purchase. To install a ceiling fan you’ll need to have a:

Voltage Tester
Ladder
Measuring Tape
Screwdriver
Ceiling Fan-Rated Junction Box
Fan Brace
Wire-Cutter/Stripper
Light Bulbs
Globes/Shades if they aren’t included
An extra-long downrod if you’re installing on a sloped ceiling
Ceiling Fan and Kit

Choosing the Right Fan Size

Measure the room you’re working in before you start. Not all fans are created equal, so pick one that will fit. Use the following guidelines to help.

For rooms smaller than 75 square feet (like bathrooms), pick a fan with blade spans of less than 36 inches.
Blade spans between 36 and 42 inches are ideal for rooms up to 144 square feet.
A 44-inch span is perfect for rooms up to 225 square feet, like a dining room.
For rooms that are 225 square feet or larger (a large living room, for example), you’ll need a fan with a 50 to 54-inch blade span.
The more space between the ceiling and the fan, the better! The ideal ceiling fan height is 8-9 feet above the ground.
If your ceiling is less than 8 feet, you’ll most likely need to install a flush-mount fan (no downrod).
High pitched ceilings typically require you to buy an extra-long downrod (so that the blades won’t hit the sloped ceiling), so check your ceiling height and angle before choosing your downrod.

Pro Tip: Once your fan is installed, the tips of the blades should be at least 30 inches from the walls, and the bottom edges of the blades should be at least 7 feet above the floor.

Other Important Tips

Ceiling fans are heavy! They need to be anchored properly to an electric ceiling box designed to hold the weight of the fan. Inspect the electrical box to ensure it’s fan-rated. There should be an inscription on the box to indicate this. If it’s not, you’ll also need to purchase a fan box before you get started.
Check to make sure the light switch you’re using is wired appropriately for the fan. If it isn’t, you may need to call a professional to get the job done.
Check the ceiling joists for any wiring or plumbing pipes that may be in the way.
If you’re adding a new fan where one didn’t exist, check local building codes to determine if you need a permit.
Always check your installation guide for any additional requirements that are specific to your fan. For some expert help choosing the perfect fan for your space, give us a visit or a call and we’d be happy to help.

2. Safety

Now that you’re ready to begin, head out to your circuit breaker and turn the power off for the room where you’ll be installing your fan. Also, make sure all of the wall switches in the room are safely in the “off” position. Do not rely on a wall switch alone to protect you from electrical shock! Always use a voltage tester to be sure the power is off before handling wires.

Pro Tip: Place some electrical tape over the switches you’ve turned off on the circuit breaker. This will prevent anyone from switching it back on while you’re working.

3. Remove Your Old Fixture

Let’s get started! First, you’ll need to take down the existing fixture. Most fixtures have easy-to-find attachment points, like screws or twist-off caps. Remove accessories like light bulbs, shades to get down to the base of your fixture, then unscrew the base from the ceiling.

If you’re removing an existing ceiling fan, remove the light bulbs and globes first. Then, take down the light kit (if needed – some fans have them, some don’t). Unscrew and remove the fan blades next. At this point, you may need to enlist a helper as the full weight of the fan base and motor can be heavy. Pull off the canopy (metal cover at the base of the fan). The last step is to remove the mounting bracket with a screwdriver!

Once you have the base of your fixture dropped away from the ceiling, unscrew the wire nuts connecting it to the electrical box. Be sure to test the wires with your voltage tester first!

4. Install a Fan Box

Before you start, check your existing electrical box. If it isn’t rated to support the weight of your fan, you’ll need to install a new one. To see if your existing box is rated to hold a fan, just take a look at the label! If you can’t find a label, err on the side of caution and get a new one.

You’ll have to do a little bit of homework here to figure out what will work best for your project. Fan boxes are easiest to install if you have open access, like in the attic or an unfinished ceiling. If you won’t have easy access you may need to widen your drywall hole a little, but you can usually find a brace that will slip through the existing hole.

Take a look at your rafters to determine the best way to install your fan box. Fan boxes can be attached directly to the rafter with a side bracket. If your new fan won’t be right next to a rafter, look for a brace that will span the space between two rafters. These braces can be a little trickier to install through a small hole in the ceiling, but they’ll give you a lot more breathing room when it comes to getting your fan box in the right place.

5. Install the Mounting Bracket

To secure the mounting bracket to the fan box, start by threading the wires through the mounting bracket. If the fan has a slide-on bracket, leave the bolts on the junction box, slide the bracket over the mounting hardware, and tighten the screws. For fans without a slide-on bracket, place the bracket over the mounting bolts that poke through the bracket. Then, secure it using the provided nuts. If your fan is a flush mount, pull the wiring through the canopy (the part that covers the wiring/mount bracket) and skip to step 7.

6. Install the Downrod

To set the downrod, you’ll want to find a flat work surface. Slip the canopy onto the downrod and pull the primary wires through the hollow downrod. Then, connect the downrod to the fan base. With the downrod and base assembled, attach the other end of the downrod to the mounting bracket.

7. Wire the Fan

Next, it’s time to wire! Hang the downrod – or canopy, if you’re installing a flush mount fan – on the hook on the mounting bracket. If there isn’t a good place to hang it, phone a friend to hold the fan up for you to free up your hands while you connect the wires.

Before you start, check to make sure all your wiring (and the wire nuts) will fit in the ceiling. Use your wire cutters to trim down any wires that won’t. This will also keep them from vibrating against the canopy when the fan is on. Use wire strippers to expose the copper of the wires on the new ends.

Connect the corresponding wires using the provided wire nuts. Your installation guide will have a diagram to follow, but, generally speaking, the fan’s green wire connects to the ground wire, the fan’s black motor wire connects to the black supply wire, and the fan’s white wire connects to the white (or neutral) supply wire.

Double-check your work against the diagram, then gently push the wires into the junction box. Lift the fan into position, then clip it to the mounting bracket and secure the screws.

Pro Tip: Some fans come with additional wires for extra features, like having a separate switch for the light and fan. If your switches or wires don’t match the diagram, you might need to check in with an electrician or a lighting specialist at our showroom to help you get things set up correctly.

8. Blades and Bulbs

Now it’s time to install the fan blades. Every fan is a little bit different – but most fans will have an arm or bracket that you’ll need to attach to the blade and then to the base using a screwdriver. Some fans have quick-install blades that speed up the process using keyhole slots that slip over the fan’s mounting screws and lock into place with a little tug.

Some fans have reversible blades – so make sure you’re checking each time that you have the correct side pointed down!

By now, you should be seeing the light at the end of the tunnel – so let’s install the bulbs! For fans with a light kit, refer to your guide to ensure everything goes in place correctly. Generally, you’ll just need to install the shades, globes, or light cover. If your fan did not come with bulbs, make sure the bulbs you install have the correct base type and wattage

If your fan came with a remote, don’t forget to install the remote control holder!

9. Lights… Fan… Action!

Last, but not least, it’s time to test out your new ceiling fan! Go back to your circuit breaker and turn the power back on. Try switching your fan and lights on and off using the light switch or remote control. Test all of the speed settings to make sure your fan is secured properly and doesn’t wobble or rattle.

Most of the time, installing a ceiling fan is a pretty straightforward DIY project. Occasionally, an odd issue can crop up due to things like old wiring. If you run into any trouble, be sure to give us a call right away, or call an electrician that can help you troubleshoot the issue.

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Congratulations DIY master! Now that you’ve successfully installed your new ceiling fan, get ready for a fresh breeze to blow your way–and some savings too. With all that extra cash blowing around, come visit us and we’ll help get you started on your next project.

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DISCLAIMER: Be sure to follow all the manufacturer’s installation instructions and take all recommended safety precautions. Check before installing to see if you need a permit and be sure all building and electrical codes are observed. If you have any questions or are unsure about installing the fan yourself, contact a licensed electrician or Lit Living for more help.

How to Use Patterns and Textures in Every Room of Your Home to Personalize Your Space

by admin · Mar 22, 2024

Interior design trends seem to cycle back and forth every five to ten years. And right on cue, after a long stretch of neutral minimalism, maxalimist living has taken designers and influencers by storm!

The rise of maximalist design doesn’t mean you have to redo your entire home. But it gives you an excellent opportunity to touch up your existing space with bold patterns.

We’ll give you top ideas for incorporating patterns for any design aesthetic throughout your home! Then you can adapt these tips to your own style, budget, and space.

Kitchen

Your kitchen is the heart of the home, and so the style influences here will change how the rest of the house feels.

So if you’re ready to change up the balance of your white cabinets and walls, try a few of these tips:

Custom backsplash: An easy way to increase the function and design of your home is by installing a backsplash that matches your unique style. With endless tile options, you can create a minimalist pattern or a loud mosaic impact with bright colors.
Runner rugs: Tired of aching feet and a crumby floor? Runner rugs make your home safer, cleaner, and prettier. Line your floors with patterned rugs to add dimension and enjoyment to your dinner prep.
Display plates and dishes: The shift to a more maximalist design includes incorporating personal touches to your decor. So display your inherited china or thrifted dishes for another layer of patterns and history.
Island pendants: Create a final dimension of patterns with light! Your pendant shades can create shadows, new colors, or bright spotlights to increase the variety of your home.

Bathroom

Bathrooms are often a tricky space to decorate– you want to enjoy your space, but you usually don’t have room to embellish much. With a little creativity (and courage) you can pack a punch with some washroom-approved patterns.

Try adding some layers by updating your:

Wallpaper: Make an impact without taking up needed space with wallpaper. Add natural neutrals, bold art deco, or geometric modern to immediately glow up the area.
Tile work: Bathrooms offer so many opportunities to use tile. Redo your countertop, create a backsplash, touch up the floor, or renovate your tub and shower!
Vanity lights: The lighting around your mirror is another way to play with patterns. Whether it’s a custom shade or a unique number of lights, it’s another valuable investment that will significantly impact your bathroom.
Textiles: Incorporate your towels, washcloths, and rugs into your design to save space and add beauty. Using contrasting colors and patterns, you can use these textiles as an accent layer in your design.

Hallways

Your hallways are a tricky spot– not much light, wall space, or floor space is available to show your personality. But these small, narrow spaces are a great place to incorporate some maximalist colors and patterns.

Some space-saving, high-impact design tips include:

Sconces: Create a new rhythm for your hall by spacing out wall sconces along the way. You can add beauty and light to any hall, from DIY peel-and-stick to professionally installed hard-wired options.
Textured walls: Add interest to your walls with custom board and batten or wood strips. It’s easy to customize, install, and match to any color scheme.
Runners: Protect high-traffic walkways with a runner rug! You’ll extend the life of your wood or carpet floors and add another layer of color and exciting patterns.
Eclectic gallery: While most hallways don’t have much open wall, an eclectic gallery can fit the smallest spaces. You’ll add color, personality, and pattern with a few frames tucked between doorways!

Bedrooms

Your family bedrooms are a great place to match your unique personality. While the rest of the house may stick to one theme, this private space can be anything you want.

We recommend playing with:

Curtains: Layer curtains for a custom layout and better sleep. Blackout curtains usually have less design variety, but you can layer them with patterned sheer curtains for a daytime set.
Accent walls: Create the perfect focal point for your personal domain with wallpaper or use wood planks in a custom design.
Bedding: Use a floral, geometric, or playful bedspread to display your personality. Or, if you like to change your look often, use a white bedspread and rotate patterned throws throughout the year.
String lights: Create soft light patterns by stringing fairy lights around your room. For an added layer, swap fairy lights for color-changing LEDs!

Dining Room

Whether your dining area is a dedicated room or a nook off the kitchen, it should be defined as a separate space. Then you can leave the work of food preparation stress in the kitchen and switch to relaxation and connection as you eat.

Define the space by:

Distinct wall treatments: Change the mood by using different colors and shapes for your dining walls. Patterned wallpaper is an easy way to get a professional finish without detailed work!
A bold divider: If your dining room shares the space with your kitchen, add texture and pattern with a wall divider. From eclectic to traditional, you’re sure to find the right touch for your space.
Unique lighting: Signal a mood change with your lighting choices. Using a different style of pendant or chandelier from the kitchen will disrupt the food-making pattern.
Playing with upholstery: Use a table runner, placemats, or statement upholstered chairs for an added layer of personality.

Living Room

From hosting parties to a quiet movie night, your living room provides a comfortable space to relax and enjoy. But relaxation doesn’t mean it has to be quietly predictable.

Try some of these tips to maximize design in your shared “unwind” space:

Wallpaper the ceiling: Do a unique riff on traditional wallpaper by wallpapering the ceiling. You’ll create interest by adding pattern and color to an ordinarily neutral space.
Change neutral patterns with colored LEDs: Prefer a neutral room but want to up the anti for parties? Then try color-changing LEDs to turn your neutral wallpaper into something bright and playful.
Swap pillow covers: Even in the most neutral space, you can add pattern and dimension with new pillow covers. Corduroy, leather stripes, or soft florals will make your sofas look brand new.
Layer rugs: Layering rugs is a new standard for luxe-looking living rooms. You can keep it simple with a muted border or play up the patterns with a modern geometric display.

Home Office

More people than ever have a dedicated work space from home– but have you taken the time to craft a space that works best for you and your tastes?

Create interest in your Zoom meetings (without lagging virtual backgrounds) with some of these tips:

Accent wall for the camera: Show your personality to your coworkers and clients with a beautiful accent wall in sight of your camera. It will beat your cubical or office walls anyways!
Interesting lamp shades: Create shadow or color with a unique lamp shade. You’ll improve visibility and do better work, too!
Computer mat: Keep your workspace clean, organized, and attractive with a patterned laptop mat. You can cover your entire desk for a comprehensive update or accent your space with a keyboard-sized mat.
Reading chairs: Add flavor to your room with an accent reading chair or two. Reading chairs offer an excellent opportunity to introduce new patterns to the room without going overboard.

After years of minimalist, copy-paste interior design, it’s time to breathe new personality and individualism into our homes with some playful patterns. Go for whatever suits you best. You keep your minimalist aesthetic and introduce a few subtle patterns and textures. Or, you can go all in on a complete redesign and bring bold, beautiful patterns and colors throughout your home!

Whatever your style, there are endless ways to incorporate patterns and embrace your favorite designs.

Need Help?

Proper lighting is essential to a fully functioning home– but it can be challenging to nail balanced brightness, great fixtures, and a budget! Contact the experts at Lit Living for advice on your project!

How to Safely Replace A Ceiling Light

by admin · Mar 8, 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!

9 Design Tips for Any Kitchen

by admin · Oct 20, 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, All-Phaseis here for your design needs!

6 Easy Ways to Increase Your Home Value

by admin · Sep 22, 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 Lit Living.

Break into Farmhouse Flair with Your Home Lighting

by admin · Sep 8, 2023

If the down-home charm of farmhouse style speaks to you, you’re not alone! It’s a trendy style with staying power, and now’s a great time to start adding farmhouse décor around any home. If you’re unsure how to start, however, switching out your light fixtures is the perfect starting point. There’s no repainting, rearranging wall hangings, or reupholstering involved- just a simple swap to get the look you want!

Here are some of our favorite ideas that add a touch of that Farmhouse Flair:

Electric Candles

Sure to add an atmospheric glow to any event, candlelight is one of the best ways to slip some farmhouse fashion into your home. It’s rustic, reminiscent of simple times, and charming in all the right ways.

Rough, Unfinished Metals

Don’t be afraid to flaunt some rust and roughness in your metal décor. Whether it’s a functional light fixture that’s made to look aged and distressed or simply a decorative lighting piece like this lantern, aged metal is a farmhouse staple.

Rope or Twine Details

As a compliment to the fresh, finished pieces of your décor, try some unfinished twine-like lighting. The rope cords add excellent texture and depth, and the combined effect is a rustic, upscale farmhouse look fitted for any room.

Imitation Fencing or Caging

If you’re looking for just a small touch of farmhouse style, try a gentle nod to farmhouse with cage-like metal fixtures. They’re easily hung anywhere in your home, and they’re versatile enough to match with any kind of décor if you decide to redecorate later.

Bolts, Nails, and Screws

Imagine hand-constructed barrels, fencing, wagons, and more when you look at the quaint bolt details on this ceiling fan. Ultra-functional and fashionable, it’s great for any room in your home. Even better? Try it in an outdoor, covered area- just make sure the fixture is damp-area rated!

Bleached or Faded Wood

Almost nothing says “farmhouse” more than bleached, faded, or distressed wood. This fixture is simple and unassuming, but adds some textured dimension to the space. Add that to the rich green hues on the walls and linens… we love the look!

Mixed Material Fixtures

Metals, fabrics, chains, woods, and more… Farmhouse is a fresh take on an old-fashioned look, and it really shines in fixtures that use various materials to bring old and new worlds together.

Old-Fashioned Bulbs

With the right bulb in place, simple fixtures are automatically transformed into something quaint. Those old-style bulbs are comforting, familiar, and full of farmhouse flavor. Best of all? You can add them to an existing fixture for an extra simple update!

Do you like what you see? Props to farmhouse décor for serving up some beautiful details that are ready to brighten your home. Contact us at Lit Living for more information about farmhouse-friendly lighting or any other home lighting needs!

12 Tips for Choosing and Hanging the Perfect Dining Light

by admin · Aug 4, 2023

Whether it’s time to impress your new neighbors or host an important business dinner, your dining room is a high-impact space that communicates a lot about you. Some dining rooms are an informal extension of the kitchen, while others are a spacious, separate room. No matter what yours looks like, choosing the right design (and light) can create the perfect setting for all occasions.

Size

1. To determine the best size for your fixture, use this formula: Length + Width = diameter of your ideal light. Example: 10’ (length) + 14’ (width) = 24” (width of your light). It’s a general rule, so use it at your own discretion and adapt to suit your preferences!

2. Long dining tables call for bigger lights. Consider a long track light or even mount two fixtures on either end of the table. It’s a great way to emphasize your lovely, lengthy dining space!

Style

3. The style you select reflects your personal taste, but also affects the function of the light. Shaded lights provide soft, subtle light, while glass fixtures diffuse light more brightly and evenly. Exposed bulbs provide the most clear, crisp light.

4. If your dining room branches off your kitchen, consider matching the finish of the dining light to the finish of kitchen lights or hardware.

5. If your dining room is separate from the kitchen, feel free to choose a distinct finish for a unique dining room atmosphere. Just remember that it should still ‘live well’ with any visible fixtures from surrounding rooms.

Height

6. Know your ceiling height before selecting a light. Most fixtures are designed for an 8-foot ceiling.

7. If you have a vaulted ceiling, use some of that space for the fixture, but keep it mounted low enough that it still feels like a cohesive part of the dining table ensemble.

8. Proper mounting height is 30-36 inches from the top of your table to the bottom of the fixture. That figure can be a little higher on a taller ceiling.

9. Fixtures with decorative pieces or hanging crystals may hanger lower than the recommended 30-36”. For these fixtures, measure to the frame of the light instead.

Wattage

10. The general recommendation for dining light output is 300 watts. This is especially true for rooms with lighter paint colors.

11. In dining rooms with darker paint, consider choosing bulbs that provide 400 watts or more.

12. For additional control and extra ambiance, use dimmable bulbs and install a dimmer switch in your dining room. It’ll serve equally well for full-light projects and dimly-lit romantic dinners.

Make your dining room an inviting space with an expressive, efficient fixture. For any additional questions, feel free to contact our expert team here at Lit Living. We’re here to help you make your dream home!