Let’s talk Home Lighting
This is a subject that could go on for hours, but I promise to keep it short. This is one of my favorite topics, because I feel lighting can MAKE or break a home! First, as a photographer, I want to point out that lighting comes from two sources: (Natural and Artificial).
When we built our home, windows were one item we splurged on. We wanted the biggest and most windows we could possibly get + afford. Mission accomplished. We have minimal wall space and a TON of black windows. (Black windows are a whole additional story, and a substantial price increase at that). We wanted natural light to flood in from every direction. Even our garage doors are mostly glass. (Also one thing our budget felt, but SO thankful for the choices we made).
When you begin to choose lighting for your home, use the windows as a base. Look at every room and think of how light is coming in, or in contrast, maybe there is a need to add a window, even a small one. One thing I wish I could change is I wish I would have put a window in every closet that had the ability to do so. Natural light above all.
If you live in a dark, wintery place like me- I live by open windows, candles, good lighting, and a toasty fire. Lighting is mood changing.
Dimmer switches, undercab LED lights, exterior lighting, up and down lighting, pendants, sconces…this topic is HUGE, and yes, it can feel overwhelming. It is an expensive part of building, but I would argue, one of the most important.
A few tips for selecting lighting.
I think lighting should flow throughout the entire home, so when you are picking lighting, try making a mood board. With anything, start with some inspiration. As you start to make purchases, save them all in one place to easily refer back. (I like to use Pinterest and Canva). In our home, I started with the big lights first! (Chandeliers, then pendants, wall sconces, accent lighting and lamps). If you are inspired by one light in particular, then start with that! No hard rules here.
The first light we bought was our Main Living Room Chandelier. We were out shopping one day, and when we saw it, we instantly knew this was it. If you see it, and you both have peace, commit, then and there! We did.
The next light was our HIGHLY requested dining room Seagrass Dome Light - Threshold x StudioMcGee. Unfortunately, it’s sold out, but you can request to be notified if it restocks! I’ve had a few followers find it on FB Marketplace and also EBay. I found mind at a thrift store. Seriously!
I’ve never put something in my cart faster!
Pictured is the ThresholdxStudio McGee Pendant and in the LR is our Kichler Linara
Where did you find all the lighting in your home?
Welp. Gulp. Should I make a list? I’m half kidding, but I also need to.
Our Lighting is a mix of high end and lower end, from the following places:
Shades of Light (Note the return policy).
Amazon
Facebook Marketplace (Honestly, don’t underestimate this one).
Wayfair
Room and Board
Crate and Barrel
CB2
Menards
Target (Studio McGee Line, so good)
Southern Lighting (In person if you are near Minneapolis, MN).
Where Can I Shop your Lighting all in one place?
Answer: Right here, below. 🖤
These are from Kitchen, Dining, Living Room, Powder, Main Bath, Boys Bath. Task lighting is Boys Shared Room and Castle’s Room.
Keep scrolling… a few more lights!
Obsessed with these. A few of these are going in our lower level, so keep an eye out as we install!
Like I said, Lighting is an endless topic. If you have specific questions, feel free to send me an email. Make sure to follow us on Instagram for the latest blog post updates! Have a beautiful day friends, and THANK YOU for being here. Anna