Lighting FAQ’s
What considerations should I take into account as I begin to look for new lighting in my home?
- Know your budget. There are a lot of lighting options available today. Budget will impact the final lighting decisions, so have a good idea of what you’d like to spend in advance. Bright Ideas offers a variety of lighting products that will accommodate most budgets.
- Know your style and taste. Take a look around your home. What décor makes you the most comfortable? Look through magazines and find pictures of rooms that appeal to you. If possible, have color chips or fabric samples ready for when you make your lighting purchase.
- Know the use of the area you plan to light. Homework and food prep require different lighting than entertaining or just passing through. Some areas will serve multiple purposes, too, so you may need different types of lighting in a single location.
- Where’s the electricity? This is especially important for new construction or large remodeling jobs. Know where the outlets and electrical boxes are in the space you plan to illuminate. The less re-wiring you have to do, the better.
- How big is it? Take a look at the size of the room. If you have a 10-foot ceiling in your dining room, for example, a three-tier, 21-light chandelier won’t work for you. Also measure the space where you plan to install the light to ensure the fixture will fit.
When is the right time to choose lighting for my new home?
It’s never too early to start thinking about your new home’s lighting plan. There are so many decisions when building or remodeling. You can relieve a lot of pressure if you give yourself plenty of time to determine your needs and options. The electrician will normally get started on wiring for lighting fixtures when the roof is on and the walls are all framed up – often right after the plumber finishes work on your new home. The more prepared you are to meet with the electrician and communicate your lighting plan, the more enjoyable the lighting project will be for everyone involved.
