5 Lighting Tips for Modern Bathroom Decor
Lighting is one of the most important elements of a bathroom. Without adequate lighting, it can be difficult for home dwellers to get the most optimal use out of the space. It is important for lighting to go beyond being functional. The right lighting can provide both the proper mood as well as a modern and updated look. Keep reading to learn how to make the most out of lighting in a modern bathroom.
When thinking about adding lighting to the bathroom, do not limit yourself to ceiling lights. One great way to add light in the lavatory is to install lights that flank the mirror. Ceiling lights provide ambient light, but a bath bar or vanity light on the side of the mirror provides great light, especially for morning routine activities such as brushing teeth, flossing, applying makeup, and shaving. Side lighting is ideal because it reduces shadows while providing adequate lighting for detailed tasks.
Use natural daylight as a guide
Generally, we look our best in natural light. Sunlight has a way of bringing out the true color tone of the face, and naturally highlights makeup. Mimicking this idea in the bathroom is a great idea, as it will provide you with a good idea of how you will appear after you walk out the door. The first step in achieving this look is to choose white shades for the fixtures. Keep in mind that white does not need to be boring; they can be clear or frosted, or any other incarnation of a white shade. The bulb choice is also important for achieving a natural light look.
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If you are using incandescent lights, they should be either warm or cool white or have a color temperature of 2700K and 3000K.
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If you are using compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), make sure their Color Rendering Index (CRI) is at least 90. This measurement will assure they are displaying color, in the same way natural light does. The color temperature of the CFL should also be between 2700K and 3000K.
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If you are using light emitting diode lights (LEDs,) you need to pay close attention to their brightness, as you do not want to choose a bulb that is too bright. As with the other types of bulbs, the color temperature should be between 2700K and 3000K and have a CRI of at least 90.
Layer the lighting
Ideally, the lighting in the bathroom needs to adjustable, so it provides the right amount of light whether you are getting ready for work in the morning or taking a relaxing soak in the tub in the evening.
One way to guarantee that there will always be an appropriate level of light is to install a dimmer. Using a dimmer will always give you the power to control exactly how much light is flowing into the area. It used to be that dimmers were only available for incandescent lights. However that is no longer the case. Dimmers can be installed and used even with energy-saving CFLs and LEDs.
Another way to adjust the amount of light in a room is to choose decorative fixtures for the ceiling light. Small chandeliers and semi-flush ceiling lights are both great ways to set the mood in a room.
Light fixtures can often be overlooked. In fact, many people just continue to use whatever the previous owner of a house had installed. Even homeowners who designed a bathroom from scratch do not generally change their light fixtures. The result ends up being a dated look that is still present long after the fashion has gone out of style. Simply updating the lighting fixtures can give new life to a tired-looking bathroom. Changing out light sconces is an easy and affordable change that can make a big difference. In the past, sconces could only be found in ultra-traditional styles. That is no longer the case. Sconces have become more sleek and modernized. Many sconces are available in modern styles such as blown glass or stainless steel designs that fit with most modern decors. Another great fixture choice for a modern bathroom is pendant lighting. These lights give a soft, updated look to any bathroom.
The right lighting choice can set the entire mood for a room. It can turn a simple bathroom into a relaxing spa. Consider placing some dramatic lighting over the bathtub. A small antique chandelier can turn an ordinary bathtub into a haven to escape to at the end of a stressful day.
The bathroom is one of the most-used rooms in a home. It is important that it is adequately lit for both utilization and style. Take some time to consider how the bathroom should be lit as well as how you want the finished project to look.
If you need advice on how to add modern lighting to your bathroom, contact RWC, our friendly and qualified staff can help give you the modern bathroom of your dreams.
How to Choose the Perfect Windows for your Home
Windows are an important feature of any home. Not only do they provide a clear view of the outdoors from the inside, they add beauty and functionality as well. Choosing the right windows can be the difference between having a home that looks plain and boring and having a home that is the envy of the neighborhood. Keep reading to find out about some unique and interesting window ideas for your home.
Anyone entering a home notices the entryway first. So, it provides the first impression for everyone who walks through the door. Having windows along the top and sides of a door gives a polished yet welcoming look to the area. Having windows in the entryway also provides lighting, views, and architectural character. Other benefits of having an entryway full of windows are that it adds drama to the area as well as providing a transition from the exterior of the house to the interior of the home.
Bay windows can add a dramatic effect to a home. They can open up a room and give the illusion of extra space. They let in lots of natural light while providing stunning views at the same time. They are also ideal for providing ventilation to the inside since they can open up in different directions to create a soothing cross-breeze. Bay windows also provide the opportunity to have cozy window seats and extra storage space.
Dormer windows are a great addition to houses that features an extensive block of roofing. Their design can break up the large blocks of roofing to add symmetry and balance to the house. Dormer windows can also bring attention to certain areas of the façade as well as add height and light to the interior of the home. Since there is more headspace in the interior of the home, it makes movement within the home easier. Dormer windows also provide interior ventilation, which is particularly beneficial for homes that do not have air conditioning. Dormer windows also come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and styles making it easy to create a unique appearance to the home.
Skylights and other types of high windows are a great addition to a home because they add a significant amount of natural light without taking up lots of wall space or hindering the privacy of those who live in the home. Since so much natural light can be brought in, these lights can help the homeowner save money on electricity costs since there is less need for artificial light usage. Skylights are also a great medium for showing off the striking pitch of a ceiling. They can also highlight a beautiful outdoor area that surrounds a home and bring those who dwell in the home closer to nature. Skylights that can be opened can provide an extreme amount of ventilation as well.
Having an entire wall filled with windows can create an interesting and dramatic effect in any room in the house. Ceiling to floor windows will not only provide exquisite views it will fill the room with bright light. The light that streams in from window walls helps to reduce stress, depression, and pain. Window walls also make the room open and airy while providing a connection to the outdoors. The combination of trimwork and glass creates a unique look that combines traditional designs with modern touches.
Adding stained glass to a window is a creative and unique way to bring character and color into a room. One of the best features of a stained glass window is that it allows in light without the homeowner needing to sacrifice privacy.
Installing energy-efficient windows in the home is a great cost-saving investment because they can greatly decrease utility costs. Energy-efficient windows come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles so they can go just about any place in the home. They help to create a more comfortable internal temperature of the home, and there is even a special coating on these windows that prevents the harmful rays of the sun from penetrating them and ruining items inside the house. Further, these windows are not difficult to find. They are available from all of the major window manufacturers and can easily be found anyplace windows are sold.
Windows are a necessity for a home but that does not mean they need to be plain and boring. There are many ways windows can enhance both the exterior and interior of a home. If you are looking to add some personality and character to your home with new windows, RWC can help you. We have a wide variety of windows to choose from, and we provide full-service installation.
Contact us today and see how we can help make your house look sensational!
8 Best Ways to Utilize your Kitchen Space
A kitchen can be made or broken by its functionality. Homeowners who do not make good use of the space they have in the kitchen are doomed to be frustrated by it every day. Read below to discover some great ways to make the most of your kitchen space, regardless of its size.
The corners in a kitchen can easily become wasted space. Corners can also provide solutions for creating usable space. Some ways to make corners work for you include:
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Corner sinks are great ideas, especially in smaller kitchens. Corner sinks free up counter space while improving the aesthetics of the whole room.
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A corner range can help save space.
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Installing floating shelves can create extra storage space.
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Creating a corner pantry can turn a previously unused corner into a space that is used every day.
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Creating a corner eating area can freshen up an unused corner.
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Corners are also great places to add some odd-shaped storage options. There are several cabinets that are specifically designed for corner spaces.
Don’t discount using the ceiling to create space in a kitchen. Hanging a pot rack can open up lots of cabinet space that can be used for other items. Hanging a pot rack will put your most-used pots and pans where they are easily accessible, which will save time as well as space. Also, using a pot rack will make it easy to see the cooking vessels, so it is easy to find just the right tool for whatever job needs to be done.
One of the biggest complaints people have about their kitchens is a lack of storage space. Solve that issue by not storing serving pieces. Save the cabinet space for cookware, bakeware, and items that need to be stowed away. But, keep your beautiful serving pieces out in the open where they can be enjoyed by everyone. Cookbooks can be displayed as well. Also, add a few green plants to the area to add some color and visual interest.
4. Use the inside doors of cabinets
Part of utilizing the space in a kitchen in the best possible way is to think outside the box. The inside of a cabinet door can provide the backdrop for many helpful tricks to better utilize kitchen space.
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Attach a corkboard or magnetic board to the inside of a cabinet to create a place to hang messages or grocery lists.
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Attach a few wooden strips with some hooks to store measuring cups.
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Attach a chalkboard for writing reminders, measuring equivalents, or even recipes.
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Attach a pegboard to hang kitchen utensils or pots and pans.
5. Install rolling shelves
The backs of cabinets can be scary places where kitchen paraphernalia of all kinds go to get lost. Installing some simple rolling shelves can solve that problem. Rolling shelves are easy to find at big box stores and are fairly easy to install. This type of shelving is great because they sit on casters that fit into tracks. Since the shelves roll out, even the stuff that is stored way in the back of the cabinet can be brought to the forefront when it is needed.
Walls are another overlooked space in the kitchen. Take a look at spaces that look wasted or unusable. Install some shelves in those spaces and use it to store objects such as glasses or use them to display vases or pretty serving ware. You will beautify the space as well as gain additional cabinet space.
7. Use hooks
It is amazing how helpful hooks can be. Simply installing hooks can create a lot of space that would otherwise be lost. Hooks can house plastic or metal baskets that can be used to hold small but necessary items such as sponges or spices. Cleverly hidden hooks that are placed on the inside of the cabinet beneath the sink can store dishwashing gloves. Larger hooks can be used to hang spoons and spatulas. Hooks are easy to install, too. Some hooks require a small screw to hang it on the wall, but many just adhere to a surface by exposing a sticky strip on its back.
8. Make the island work for you
Islands are great additions to a kitchen. They provide extra counter space, which can be a saving grace in many kitchens. However, islands can do so much more. Islands that include a sink provide an extra water source in the kitchen. Islands can also be used for storing cookbooks or other items that need to be used in the kitchen.
A kitchen that makes good use of its space can be a homeowner’s dream.
If you are in the West Caldwell, New Jersey area and need help making optimal use of your kitchen space, contact RWC to find out how we can help you.
5 Ways your Home can Improve your Mood Instantly
Redecorating a room is always a great idea for giving a facelift to an old and tired space. But, it has other benefits as well. Different design elements can also have a profound effect on your mood. Design elements such as paint color can literally affect how you feel. Following are just a few examples of how home décor can affect the mental and emotional well-being of the inhabitants of a home.
1. Sun exposure
Although sun exposure isn’t a design element in itself, the amount of sun exposure the interior of a house receives can be greatly dependent on the location of design elements within the rooms of the home. Exposure to the sun can be a positive factor in brightening one’s mood. In fact, sunlight is a known factor in reducing depression in people. The natural sunlight that streams into a room contains endorphins and serotonin, both which positively affect a person’s mood. It’s not hard to increase the natural light in a room.
One trick is to decorate with large mirrors that reflect light. There is a multitude of decorative mirrors available on the market, so any homeowner should have an easy time finding mirrors that fit into their existing décor.
Window treatments are also an important factor for increasing natural light. Remove heavy drapes that can absorb sunlight and replace them with light and airy curtains that allow sunlight to enter the room. If you still desire some privacy, consider adding some shutters to the windows, as they can be easily controlled by you or anyone else in the home.
2. Color your world
Painting in an inexpensive and relatively quick way to change the look of a room. The colors you choose to paint the walls of your house are important factors in determining mood. In the bedroom, go with a favorite color, preferably one that is vibrant. If it needs to be toned down a bit, consider painting only a few of the walls, or perhaps, just the upper or lower halves of them. Don’t forget to add some accent pieces in complementary colors to enhance your add even more. Replace boring old bedspreads and sheets with bright new ones that match the wall color. Also, look for lamps, pillows, and blankets to complete the look.
Another way to use color to boost mood is to choose soothing colors that replicate the effect of sunlight. These colors can soften the appearance of the walls and will make it feel like the sun is shining in the room, even when it isn’t. Earth tones and soft blues work well for this effect.
3. Liven it up
There are few elements that can brighten up a mood like a living creature. So, it stands to reason that having living, thriving plants as part of a home décor can provide an emotional boost. Plants provide both light and energy to wherever they are. There is just something about bringing the outdoors inside that is calming and soothing. Having plants in the house can give you the feeling of the warmth and comfort of spring and summer, even during the colder months. Studies have shown that houseplants can lower anxiety levels, reduce fatigue, and boost mood. Flowering plants help to bring a pop of color that helps to motivate individuals as well as improve mood. In addition to having plants inside the home, try to arrange a significant amount of time in rooms that have views of nature. If possible, arrange furniture so you are looking over forestry or water.
4. A better life through better light
Proper indoor lighting can often be overlooked, but it is an important element in improving your mood. Inadequately lit rooms can make you feel closed in and sequestered. Dim light can contribute to foul moods and depression, so it is important to make sure every room is adequately lit. Make sure there is plenty of overhead light as well as light that emits from floor and table lamps. Not only will you be able to see more effectively, it will provide a serene and comforting feeling that will result in an improved state of mind.
5. Accessorize
Just like wearing jewelry can perk us up, home accessories can help to bring cheer inside the home. Adorning a home with fun accent pieces such as vases and picture frames can not only turn a dull room into a haven, it can bring a smile to your face as well. Choose accessories for the home that are fun and bring a smile to your face. There are so many options to choose from; you can’t go wrong.
Everyone’s home should be their safe haven. It is important to feel happy whenever you are there. Making a few easy alterations to the decor can go a long way in helping you achieve an improved mood whenever you look around your home.
For more ideas and for a free design consultation, give us a call at 973-227-7123, or simply visit our West Caldwell, NJ showroom!
RWC - "Relieving Home Improvement Stress Since 1959".
Project Spotlight - Pompton Plains Kitchen Renovation
This kitchen renovation in Pompton Plains was a blast - literally. We had to knock out the walls and remove the existing patio doors. By doing this, we could build a wall and add a cabinet. We put cabinets underneath to give the kitchen a crisp and beautiful space.
RWC’s, Joe Giampapa, designed the layout. You can see in the pictures below how we combined Joe's vision with the wishes of the homeowners and the talent of RWC's staff to come up with an incredible finished product.
Enjoy!
