Lighting & Electrical

Cosy, Snug and Warm Lighting  

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Bathrooms and Bedrooms: Which Lighting Where?

Lighting is a small investment you can make towards your home. Eye-catching lighting looks great and always welcomes compliments from visitors. Choosing the right lighting for your bathroom and bedroom is very important and in many homes, something that is not always taken into consideration.  

Lighting has a different purpose in every space of your home. In this article we discover the best lighting to use for bedrooms and bathrooms.  

Stylish Bathrooms 

According to Forbes the vanity, bath area and shower all require different lighting, but the bathroom’s overall design still needs to feel stylish and cohesive. If you are spending a lot of money on revamping an old bathroom or building a new one, a portion of that budget should be allocated to your lighting.  

Bathroom lighting should allow for three sources of light. Ambient, task and accent lighting. Your first source of lighting is your decorative lighting. Timeless chandeliers, pendants and interesting wall-mounted fixtures with lampshades give your bathroom that special edge. Your second should be lighting required for grooming and makeup. Your third source is accent lighting which is primarily used to accentuate the design of your bathroom.   

The same type of lighting is required for a bedroom space. The difference is that your bedroom is a place for relaxation and sleep and you would not necessarily require the same intensity of lighting that one would find in the bathroom. 

Dreamy Bedrooms 

Your bedroom is your sanctuary and should be lit as such. Get inspiration from the way your favourite spa is lit when you go for a massage. Both soft and hard lights are required in a bedroom. If possible, try to incorporate as much natural light into your bedroom as well.  

Over and above your ambient, task and accent lighting, your bedroom would need the addition of dimmers. Multifunctional dimmers let you add an extra dimension to the room’s look. Dimmers can accommodate many of your lighting needs. When used at maximum brightness your dimmers will act as general lighting and when dimmed allows for a more relaxed mood setting. Because dimmers are easy to install they can be used on any light fixture you desire. 

Neon lighting has also become a trendy topic in bedroom design. From creating word art to just using neon lights as accents, they are quite versatile in the bedroom. 

A Bulb Choice 

There are many types of bulbs you can explore when installing your lighting. According to the Department of Energy, there are a few popular types of bulbs used in households. 

• Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL): Compact fluorescent lights have a longer lifespan and, when compared to incandescent lights, are considered to be more efficient in terms of the energy it consumes.  

• Halogen Lights: Halogen lights is an incandescent light that consists of a tungsten filament that is sealed into a compact transparent envelope filled with a combination of inert gas and a small number of halogens such as bromine or iodine. They have a significantly high energy efficiency ranking and are not environmentally friendly due to the chemicals they possess as mentioned earlier.

• Incandescent Lights: Incandescent light is an old lighting technology dating back to the late 1800s, and was considered as being highly energy-efficient bulbs for about a century and based on the latest energy-efficient light bulbs available on the South African Market, these bulbs have lost their popularity and are slowly but surely phasing out. 

• Light-emitting diodes (LED): LEDs are currently the most advanced lighting technology today. It has the highest energy efficiency of all lightbulbs on the market, and even longer lifespan when compared to both compact fluorescent and incandescent light bulbs, and they are 100% recyclable making them the environment’s biggest fan. 

 Need new lighting? Explore our expert listings on the brand new HOMEMAKERSOnline website.  

Lalela le ndatshana ngesiZulu lapha (Listen to this article in Zulu here):

 

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Contemporary Lighting

Contemporary lighting and modern lighting often come across as the same thing, but they definitely are not. Modern lighting is any style of lighting that evolved with the radical changes in visual art around the post-modern art revolution. You can still find some amazing, modern lighting from the late 50s onwards in beautiful homes all around the world. Some designers describe modern lighting as everything that has been and contemporary lighting as anything that is now. What also makes contemporary lighting different is that it is forward-thinking and elegant.

It is also in the now and clear thinking about the future ahead of us. Contemporary lighting takes more than just the aesthetics into consideration. We look at some beautiful, functional designs and how they can make your home more valuable.

Eco Friendly

When it comes to eco-friendly lighting, it always starts with an eco-friendly light bulb. We are just happy that sustainable does not mean ugly anymore. More and more designers are designing lighting that incorporates enviro-friendly bulbs that are then used in contemporary designs. Contemporary lighting must be functional or it simply does not serve its purpose.

Functionality

Functional lighting is so much more than just style. The goal here is to include style and function. The balance of the two is what truly makes a design contemporary. A design that can make life easier and a design that can do some thinking for you is always welcomed. A light that comes on when you approach it is a great example of functional lighting, that saves energy and looks pretty cool too.

Saving energy is one of the most important factors when it comes to contemporary lighting design. Creating something beautiful should assist us in our everyday lives and not just be a static component in our homes.

The Look

Contemporary light designs are known to have clean, architectural lines. This type of lighting is minimalist in design. It also enjoys the use of metals and glass and almost always a combination of the two. They tend to work well in open-plan spaces. They also draw attention as a sculpture-like piece for your home. Monochromatic colours are also usually the order of the day.

The designs are created to stand out. Some also have metallic finishes with curvy, bold lines. How the design is fitted will also add to the contemporary look. For example, some designers go for fittings mounted to parallel wires to go with an industrial feel.

Find more design inspiration online and conveniently find your supplier right here on HOMEMAKERS.

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Great Outdoor Entertainment Areas

An outdoor entertainment area is ideal in warm climates like South Africa. Before the winter comes, find some HOMEMAKERS inspiration to get your outdoor entertainment area ready for the colder months. A lovely outdoor space is great all year round and can bring months of joy to you and your family. 

Outdoor entertainment areas are about functionality and space. When the time comes for you to design, build and decorate your own outdoor space, you will have endless options to choose from. Here are a few tips to get your outdoor entertainment area guest-ready!

Go Green

Plant a selection of herbs and plants close to or in and around your entertainment area. This makes it easy to grab a few fresh herbs and use their flowers and leaves for seasoning and cocktails. Want to jazz up those lamb sosaties? Grab a few sprigs of rosemary. Need a little extra zing for your dressing? A ripe lemon from your lemon tree will do the trick.

Make it Functional 

Having a functional space where you cook food and entertain people is essential. Create a space where people can do more than just stand around a braai. Start with well-crafted, outdoor furniture. Later you can include a games area and if it suits your lifestyle, a TV or an audio-visual system to watch the game too!

Ventilation and Lighting

A great outdoor entertainment area will require an outdoor kitchen or built-in braai. This requires good ventilation and lighting. You will need a good chimney installed to ensure the majority of smoke stays out of the way. An extraction fan to assist in ventilation, especially with an indoor, built-in type of setup is crucial. 

Lighting is really important. Invest in eco-friendly, overhead lighting where you can prepare food and drinks for your guests confidently!

Create the ultimate outdoor area by finding the most suitable experts right here on HOMEMAKERS.

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DIY: Easy Chandeliers

Later this month we will be talking about contemporary lighting. To get your creative juices flowing, we thought it would be a good idea to share a quick contemporary lighting DIY idea. We love all the inspiration we get online and we totally fell in love with the idea of creating very cool lampshades in a super easy and fun way.

Today we are looking at creating your own floral, geometric, hanging light fitting and an eccentric feather inspired chandelier.

What You Need

You will need a geometric bin or basket with a hole in the middle. A bunch of beautifully designed, artificial flowers, a large lantern and a few feather boas in the colour you desire. We think this DIY chandelier works best with white or black feathers. Have your glue gun ready! 

Geometric X Floral

You can either purchase a white bin or basket and give it a coating in with your favourite spray paint colour. With a glue gun, you will glue the flowers around the bin’s top edge. Do this neatly and cut away any stems that may be an eyesore with your pliers. You can easily fit a globe or bulb holder through the bottom part of the bin or basket. This bulb holder should ideally be connected to your ceiling with a cable, but this DIY light fitting can also be used with an easy, plug-in light with a switch to turn it on and off. We love this design by Muyingenioso.

Birds Of A Feather

This easy DIY chandelier looks really lovely in a contemporary setting. As with the design above you need to leave some space for you bulb or globe holder to fit through. This is where you will essentially be connecting your light and is something you will do last.

Once you have unfolded and set up your lantern, you can take your favourite coloured feather boa and glue it to the outside of the lantern. You may need a few boas to make it look opulent. Take special care when glueing your boa and make sure it is glued symmetrically. Here is another example from Muyingenioso.

Read more about lighting and lighting suppliers here.

 

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Home Spa Design Inspiration

Home spas are a luxury through and through. From steam baths to head-to-toe shower jets and your own massage room, this type of luxury is something to invest.

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Why your home wants outdoor lighting

t has been said that lighting is art for your home. It highlights the architecture and landscape. The perfect light fixture not only illuminates a space but it’s also a beautiful and decorative design element. If you’re still unsure whether to install outdoor lighting, here are 4 reasons why you should come over to the light side.

1. Beauty

Though sometimes not so obvious, but outdoor lighting could be as important and appealing as indoor lighting. It doesn’t matter how grand or beautiful your home is during the day; when a house is dark at night, it’s generally unattractive. Outdoor lighting can fix this by creating a welcoming ambiance that shows off your home’s architecture and landscaping design. Having the right outdoor lighting performs especially well at creating accents and focal points. It draws attention to decks and patios, providing beauty that’s functional too; an illuminated outdoor entertaining area extends the party into the night.

 

 2. Safety

When your outdoor area is well lit there is no need to grope around in the dark when you move in and out of your premises. It means no tripping or accidentally stepping off the path and onto wet grass. By keeping your pathways well lit, it is easier for you and your guests to navigate around without losing your/their step. Path lights help guide guests to your door while solar lights, lanterns and stake lights are cost-effective and helps to set a distinctive mood for evening entertainment.

3. Security

A dark house may be undesirable to some, but to burglars it’s irresistible. We all know that if a light is on, it creates the impression that someone is home so it’s indisputable that lighting is one of your best allies in the fight against crime. Not only is it difficult for a criminal to approach unseen in a lit-up area, but you will also easily detect any potential intruders or anomalies. When choosing outdoor lighting be sure that your entryways, garages and dark walkways are part of the design.

4. Increase the value of your home

If the above three reasons weren’t compelling enough, the simple act of installing outdoor lighting can increase the value of your home quite considerably. It’s a clever investment for anyone looking to raise the profile of their home.

Take a look at our directory of lighting specialists here.

 

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The ultimate monthly home maintenance guide

Becoming a homeowner is always exciting. Making sure that your home remains in good condition can take time. Use this simple maintenance guide to keep up with regular maintenance and avoid the most common maintenance issues.

Although we’ve tried to keep this guide as simple as possible, it is always best to seek professional help if you are unsure. Find a range of home lifestyle professionals here.

SUMMER

December

Assess possible insect issues. Clear cobwebs and prepare your insect repellent measures.

Check, clean and repair patios and decks. Ensure that it is sealed properly, check for loose boards, insect infestations, cracks and that the railing is secured.

January

Check for cracks, blisters, bubbles and peeling paint, especially on exterior walls. Look out for water stains, moisture and damp in walls and ceiling.

February

Remove sediment and prolong your geyser or water heaters life by flushing it.

Service fireplaces/built-in braais and clean chimneys.

AUTUMN

March

Check paving for cracks.

Check windows and door seals, replace broken or cracked panes of glass and apply new putty where necessary.

April

Check batteries and test smoke/ carbon dioxide detectors.

May

Prevent grime and build up in less frequently used spaces such as guest bathrooms by running water and flushing toilets.

WINTER

June

Check that power outlets, switches and light bulbs work.

July

Check window and door handles and locks are in working order.

August

Clean build-up residue in shower heads.

SPRING

September

Clear gutters of leaves and debris to ensure proper water flow. Make sure gutters are properly secured and connected allowing water to flow away from the house. 

Check for roof leaks and damaged roof tiles.

October

Check and fill wall, ceiling and foundation cracks.

Clear dead plants and shrubs, check that plants are not growing into cracks and trim trees where necessary.

November

Check the grout in bathrooms and kitchens.

Check for small leaks in plumbing and taps

EVERY MONTH

Check, clean and if necessary change air conditioning filters.

Clean sink disposal using vinegar ice cubes (this cleans the disposal and sharpens the blades).

Clean stove extractor fan filter with degreaser and hot water.

TWICE A YEAR

Test geyser or other water heater pressure relief valve.

Do a deep clean: Thoroughly clean appliances, windows and surfaces.

Vacuum refrigerator coils. Dirty coils cause fridges to run less efficiently and use more electricity.

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Lightbulb moments at home

From the first fires to the ever-evolving electric light, humans have been relying on light for millions of years. Above its functional and decorative uses, studies have shown that lighting also has an impact on your physical and emotional well-being.

Here are three things to consider if you want to make your lighting work best in every room of your home.

Layered Lighting

Modern living often involves multi-functioning rooms. The kitchen may double up as a dining or work area while lounges need to perform a multitude of work and entertainment functions.

Layering your lighting is the best way to combat the need for different lighting types. Start with your general or ambient lighting. This is the main light source for your room, such as a ceiling light, downlights or chandeliers.

Next is work lighting. This is bright lighting such as a desk lamp or kitchen counter lights that are focused on a particular work space. These lights help reduce eye strain while reading, writing or chopping.

Finally, add interest with accent lighting. This is used to highlight key areas, furniture, art or landscaping that you want to draw focus to. Solar garden lights, indoor wall lights or lamps are ideal for accent lighting.

Colour

Each kind of bulb has a particular colour temperature ranging from warm to cool.  Colour temperature is measured in kelvins. Warmer colour temperatures have a lower Kelvin and a more yellow light. On the other side of the scale, cool colour temperatures have a high Kelvin and produce a blue or white light.

Soft or warm white colours in the range of 2700 kelvin are best for cosy spaces such as bedrooms and lounges. Colour temperatures ranging from Bright or cool white in the range of 4100 kelvin to daylight in the range of 5000 kelvin are best for spaces where you need to see what you are doing such as kitchens, bathrooms, studies and garages.

Traditional incandescent bulbs generally have a low kelvin and yellow tone. Fluorescent and LED lights originally gave a very cool light but are now available in warmer options. Halogen lights produce a bright, daylight-like light that is best for work spaces.

Brightness

How brightly lit you prefer a room is a personal choice. It is also dependent on your general colour scheme, particularly the colour of your walls that will amplify the light or dim it.

Light brightness is measured in lumens, with the average light bulb producing about 800 lumens. In general, kitchens require the most light averaging at about 7000 lumens. This is followed by bathrooms at 6000 lumens, dining rooms and studies at 4000 lumens. Bedrooms should be lit at 3000 lumens. Lounges come in as the dimmest place in the home at 2000 lumens.

The best way to control the brightness of a room is through the installation of a dimmer switch on your general lighting. This will allow you to brighten or dim the lights depending on the time of day and need of light.

Lighting plays a major role in how effectively we live in our homes. It has the ability to create a welcoming space for visitors, affect moods and impact health.

Having a light bulb moment about your home’s lighting? Find a lighting expert in HOMEMAKERS and change the way you live in your home today.

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