Lighting the Way with
New Technologies
Remember the old
center-of-the-ceiling light fixture? You entered a room, hit the
wall switch, and a couple of light bulbs behind a semi-transparent
plate shed general, flat light over the whole room. All features of
the room, good and bad, got the same emphasis. There was enough
light to avoid tripping over the dog, but not enough to read
by.
Things have
changed. Lighting is now a sophisticated design element of the
modern home, whether that home is traditional or contemporary in
style. Every aspect of lighting -- placement, function, control,
style, energy-efficiency -- has evolved to offer exactly what is
needed in each room. Because high tech lighting design can transform
both the interior and exterior appearance of a home, it is commonly
included in remodeling projects.
The thoughtful
placement of lighting fixtures with specific -- rather than general
-- function can make a dramatic change in a room. For example, a big
overhead fluorescent panel in the kitchen could be replaced by
task-specific fixtures such as recessed spot lights over the sink
and other work stations, strip lights under wall cabinets, or
dropped fixtures over work islands or eating areas. Other examples
of task lighting include automatic bulbs in cabinets and pantries,
up- and down-lights that showcase landscaping or artwork, and
fixtures positioned to throw light on stair treads.
Besides
increasing the technical sophistication of their products, lighting
manufacturers have had to keep up with current styles and fashions.
Pendants, wall sconces, chandeliers, and domed fixtures are
available in an almost endless array of styles and finishes. In
addition, lighting suppliers have developed a greater range of
compatible fixtures to achieve a coordinated look for all lighting
products in the house.
Greater energy
efficiency is a primary benefit of upgraded lighting design. One of
the easiest and fastest ways to save energy is to replace standard
incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents. These bulbs last
longer, deliver more lumens (the amount of light), emit far less
heat, and consume 67% less electricity. Energy-efficient light
fixtures and bulbs are prominent among the list of products to
qualify under the federal Energy Star program, helping homeowners
earn tax breaks for investing in energy smart technology.
Upgrades in
lighting design, function, and efficiency are an easy, smart, and
affordable component of a home remodeling project, enhancing the
comfort and value of the home.
Warm
regards,
 
John Todd
Elite
Remodeling
Showroom & Design Center
2930 Preston
Road, Suite 980
Frisco, Texas, 75252
(972) 334-9800 -
phone
(972) 334-9890 - fax
jtodd@elitehomeremodeling.com
www.elitehomeremodeling.com
c. 2009 All
rights reserved.
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