Pattye Duffner's Blog

A bright idea

When positing light in a bathroom, give every fixture a purpose.  After all, what’s the purpose in lighting the air?  Recessed fixtures with adjustable lenses will let you angle and direct the beam of light to a vertical piece of cabinetry or artwork.  For makeup or shaving, you need proper lighting at the vanity.  Ideally, I like sconces mounted on each side of the mirror, roughly at eye level for even illumination.  Add a frosted shade so there is no harsh glare.  I am not a fan of a row of small makeup lights across the top of the mirror that the builders so generously give you with most homes.

Other lighting concerns to keep in mind include having a light inside the shower so you’re not showering in the shadows.  Likewise, position recessed fixtures (or even a chandelier) above the bathtub. 

Have your bathroom lighting installed on dimmers.  You will want medium to height levels when getting ready in the mornings or cleaning.  But when it is time to wind down in the evening and take a long, relaxing soak you will want low-levels.  Don’t forget the candles!

More Of Yourself

Introducing Builtby from Inhabit.  Even a lamp should offer opportunity for self-expression.  Your lamp does not have to be like hers, and his is nothing like yours.  So while you may think you are just getting a lamp, we see it as an opportunity to get a little more yourself.  These lamps are ideal for bedside lamps and each of you can design your own.  

SOLAR LANTERNS

HANGING SOLAR LANTERNS:   Love, love, love this.  Grab those solar lights from the driveway and hang them  high up on the trees.    Use metal hooks from th e hardware store (normally used to hang bird feeders) and let the lanterns glow in the trees.   During the day, they charge in the bright sun; at night, they cast a soft sheen.   You can also line sidewalks with lanterns, too.  Just let them rest right on the ground to guide guests through the dark.  Another idea is to hang them inside the kids play area so that they can see at night as well!