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9 Solutions for Your Dark Closet Problems

9 Solutions for Your Dark Closet Problems

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Did you know that a quality walk-in closet is in the top five sought-after features in homebuyers? An inviting walk-in includes a clean space with plenty of light and storage.

Lighting is a powerful design element, and it’s especially important in small spaces. Average closets typically have one light source in the middle of the ceiling. Closets like this can feel smaller than they are, dated, cluttered, and even dusty. Great lighting, however, makes a closet feel inviting, up-to-date, intentional, and extravagant.

An impactful closet “lightscape” doesn’t necessarily require a large amount of money or professional work. Below are easy tips and tricks to making a walk-in closet feel like a million bucks on any budget.

1. Layer Lighting

When designing any space, it’s a good idea to think about light in layers. Using a variety of light sources makes the space feel intentional and adds functionality. Map out the closet and think about which lighting elements would make the most impact. Remember, there’s no such thing as too much light!

A few good questions to ask are:

  • How many different light sources will the space need?
  • Can you incorporate natural light?
  • What is the existing hardwiring footprint?
  • Will this be a DIY project, or will the budget allow for professional help?
  • What is the desired feel? Cozy, bright, elegant, modern?
  • What materials and finishes will pull the lighting and space together?

2. Ceiling lighting

A great place to start the closet upgrade is replacing the ceiling light fixture.A simple, upgraded flush-mount fixture with extra bulbs can really make a huge difference – all of that extra light will make your closet feel bigger, plus it’ll be easier to find what you need. 

Swapping out a ceiling light is a relatively simple DIY because is uses the existing wiring. Your new light will come with an installation guide to walk you through how to set it up – just make sure you turn off the breaker first! 

While most closets have a simple low-profile ceiling light – there’s no rule that says you have to do that in your closet! You don’t have to save the fancy light fixtures for the places your guests will see! A statement light fixture can set the tone for the style in your closet, it’s a great place to have a little fun! A soft and elegant chandelier? Maybe an edgy modern light fixture? Be it be colored, metallic, rustic, crystal, or anything in between, the possibilities are endless!

3. Shelf lighting

Shelf lighting adds sophistication to the space and increases the utility. LED strip or track lights are excellent for highlighting shelves. Upgrade the shelves through decluttering, updating storage containers, and sprucing up shelf decor.

LED strips are an excellent option for dressing up the dressing room. LED strips are relatively cheap and can come in a variety of colors. Colored lights instantly transform the closet without spending time or money on paint! LED strips can be battery-powered or hardwired,  so professional help may not be required. They have a low running temperature, so they won’t burn or damage clothes.

4. Natural Light

Natural light can make a walk-in feel like a room instead of a closet! You just feel better in a room with natural light, so adding a window to the place where you get ready will definitely make your time there more enjoyable. Adding a window does require professional work, but you’ll likely see some of that cost back with an increased home value. 

Struggling to find a suitable wall to add a window? Think outside the box with a skylight or a row of narrow windows at the top of the wall!

5. Hidden Lights 

Hidden lights can take any ho-hum closet and make it feel like a high-end custom installation. The best part is – this closet lighting hack is so simple and affordable! Battery-powered puck lights or LED strips can be tucked under a low shelf, out of view on the top shelf, or behind built-ins. 

These lights may be small, but they make a big impact by reflecting light off the walls, floor, or ceiling. The reflections create an illusion of space, which will make any closet feel bigger and classier. 

For a battery-free version – give us a call and we’ll help you find what you need to create a hardwired experience that you can flip on and off with a light switch. You might need to hire an electrician to run the wiring, but you won’t ever have to worry about replacing or recharging.

6. Lumens and Hue

The quality of the light in a room will dramatically impact the way it feels. Take at the brightness and color of the light in your closet – not all bulbs and fixtures are equal!

Lumens measure the brightness of a bulb. Bright light (around 100 lumens) allows for the true colors of clothes and accessories to shine. Dimmer bulbs are useful for mood lighting or highlights.

A bulb’s hue refers to its color, most often as yellow or white light. Yellow light feels softer on the eyes and creates a romantic mood. White light helps the brain to be alert and pay attention.

Closets can use a mix of lumens and hues. A mirror or vanity are great places for bright, white light, where it is important to see the true color. Collectibles might look best under warmer, softer light, gently highlighting them.

7. Spotlights

A great way to showcase a collection of purses, shoes, or watches is by having dedicated lighting. LED strips, puck lights, or even hardwire new little lamps are effective options. Little lights give collectibles the attention they deserve and immediately customize the space.

Now that your collection is out of the dark, you can enjoy it any time!

8. Go Green

We’ve talked a lot about LED strip lights (pictured here), but there are several other LED options that make for a great choice in your closet’s ceiling and wall fixtures! 

No matter your aesthetic, LED bulbs are always a great choice for closets. They are energy efficient, which cuts down on the utility bill, and they last much longer than other lightbulbs. LEDs also produce very little heat, so they’re a safer choice to have near your clothing.

The technology has come a long way on these – some bulbs are motion-sensing, making your walk-in light up at your presence. Others are smart-home enabled, so you can control them with an app and set a schedule. There are even ceiling lights that have LEDs fully integrated, so you’ll never replace a bulb for the life of the fixture.

9. Get Help from the Pros

Closet design can be overwhelming. A lighting professional can be a great asset when planning and carrying out an upgrade! We can help you hone in on the most important elements to create the perfectly-lighted closet of your dreams.

Ready to get started on your dream closet? We’ll connect you with the pros who can guide you through the process. Our showroom offers a great selection of bulbs and fixtures, and our lighting experts can help you find the best lighting solutions to make your dreams a reality.

 

5 Tips to Create the Dreamiest Porch

5 Tips to Create the Dreamiest Porch

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The front porch is an often overlooked space which is, in our humble opinion, a shame. A cozy front porch is a perfect refuge from any inside chaos. It’s the first thing a guest sees and a private place for an intimate conversation with a close friend or family. Here are some tips to help you create the front porch you’ve been dreaming about:

  1. When in Doubt, Add Plants
  2. Let Your Door Speak For Itself
  3. Lighting, Lighting Lighting 
  4. Less is More!
  5. Pick Comfortable Seating

1. When in Doubt, Add Plants

One of the simplest ways to level up your porch is to add some plants and flowers. Choose real plants if you have the time and motivation you to keep them alive or, if your thumb is less-than-green, just stick with faux. Either way, a little bit of green adds a lot of life and color to a house!

Throw a couple of potted ferns like these on either side of your door to add a touch of green without going overboard. Simple, but effective.

Look, we know not every house is blessed with beautiful draping greenery like this one, but who could resist this Secret-Garden-like oasis? If you’ve got a green thumb, this front porch is one to aspire to.

Flowers

If you want to turn the head of any passerby, flowers are the way to go. They add a pop of color and are a guaranteed way to brighten everyone’s day!

Potted flowers are a good solution if you have a minimal front yard or no flower beds. This porch’s flowers are to die for, but you don’t have to have this many for a stunning result! Even tossing a couple of pots next to your door can add vibrance and life.

Hanging flower baskets are a classic way to add some dimension to a porch. Choosing to hang flowers instead of having them on the ground can also save space so you won’t have to sacrifice the porch set you’ve had your eye on.

2. Let Your Door Speak for Itself

You can do a lot to dress up a front porch, but if the door is lackluster, you’ll be hard-pressed to make the rest of the porch shine. Whether you paint your door, replace the hardware, or replace the whole door with something more your style, don’t forget to give it some TLC!

Whoever picked the color on this door should be given an award! This minty green pops against the red brick, and the gold hardware ties the whole look together.

A simple wooden door can bring warmth to a neutral-painted house like this one. We love how the sconces match the hardware on the door of this home to create a cohesive look. Even the smallest detail is accounted for and we’re impressed! 

3. Lighting, Lighting, Lighting

Lighting is a simple way to take your porch to the next level. There are tons of options to choose from, but two of the most common (and effective) front porch fixtures are sconces and pendants. If you have a larger porch, you should also look into recessed lighting to give you more light.

Sconces

A sconce is a wall-mounted light fixture that’s often used next to or above the front door. Picking the right ones for your house makes a big impact on your porch’s aesthetic and style. Check out how well these homeowners did!

These sconces have a rustic feel that contrasts beautifully with the white siding. They give this home just a spritz of farmhouse!

This sconce has a little more flair but is still a classic style you won’t need to replace when trends change. We also giving this porch bonus points for the fan above the rocking chairs! There’s nothing better – or more refreshing – than a cool breeze in the summertime.

This porch’s clean lines flawlessly match the sconces, giving the whole look a modern edge we love!

Pendants

A pendant is a light fixture with a cord or chain and usually just one light attached. They’re commonly used above a door in an entryway with a higher ceiling. Pendants are practical, but they also make a gorgeous focal point. Here are a few to inspire your next porch project!

The warm stone flooring on this porch needs some contrast to make it feel up to date. The black-finished pendant combined with the matching black door complete the whole ensemble.

This porch is timeless. A warm door combined with a simple, but elegant pendant is a classic combination to make any house feel inviting.

Pendants are incredibly versatile and work well in a number of locations – not just above the doorway. They’re also a great choice above porch furniture to create a comfy space for a leisurely chat with a friend.

4. Less is More!

Redoing your front porch can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. These simple porches prove that less really can be more with some expert advice!

There’s nothing prettier than a warm wood door and black shutters, especially on clean white siding. This porch has. it. all. Symmetrical greenery, gorgeous sconces, some simple furniture, and a fan are truly all you need to have a beautiful and functional porch.

If you have a small porch, using some hanging elements (pendants, flowers, etc.) will add dimension and will give you space for some furniture without sacrificing a beautiful result.

We love the creativity of this small porch! Since there’s no room for plants next to the door, this homeowner added greenery on the sconces. The arched window above the door is the prettiest focal point to bring together an elegant, but minimal look.

This porch looks bigger because of the reflection of the windows on the door. The rest of the space is also well-used. From the small plants placed on stands to make them look taller to the hanging pendant, every inch is accounted for!

5. Pick Comfortable Seating

There’s something nostalgic about sitting on the porch on a summer night – like an ode to the simpler times of days gone by. Picking comfortable seating will make you want to sit on your porch, reflecting and enjoying the simplicity of the moment.

Porch Swings

There’s nothing more soothing than the back-and-forth motion of a porch swing!

The cozy cushions and pillows on this swing make it the ideal spot to snuggle up with a blanket for an autumn nap or to curl up with a book.

This swing lends itself perfectly to a conversation with a friendly neighbor, family member, or friend.

Rocking Chairs

Make the most of warm spring and summer days by relaxing on a rocking chairs with an ice cold lemonade sitting on a table beside you!

Rocking chairs are a comfortable seating option, but they take up less space and aren’t quite as permanent as a swing. The pillows on these pretty white rockers tie in the shutters on the house and are the perfect spot to enjoy a bit of nature.

Rocking chairs are simple and inviting whether they’re styled or not. We love the idea of watching the neighborhood kids ride their bikes, watching the dogs be walked, and seeing the world slow around you as the sun sets from the comfort of your rocking chair.

Don’t let your front porch fall by the wayside any longer! When you’re ready to get to work creating the porch of your dreams, give Vogue Lighting a call. We’ll give you all the tips you need to make your dreams a reality.

2023 Interior Design Trend: Creating a Cozy House that Feels Like Home

2023 Interior Design Trend: Creating a Cozy House that Feels Like Home

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It’s 2023 and this is your wake-up call! Your home needs you – it’s ready for a refresh! This year, we’re all looking for a respite from the stress that always seems to work its way in. Designing a comfortable home will make you feel the extra happiness and productivity you’ve been in desperate need of. These 3 expert tips will make your home a haven you’ll be itching to get back to at the end of the day!

1. Choose a Soft Color Palette

It’s no secret that colors have a huge effect on your mood and the feel of a room. These rooms knock the color palette out of the park without sacrificing personal style or comfort. Achieving a soft color palette doesn’t have to be difficult – go with neutrals, a pop of color, or choose a monochromatic color scheme and you’re set!

Neutrals

A neutral color palette seems like an obvious choice when you’re going for comfort, but it can be tough to pull off – without color, other elements like texture or shapes will have to do the heavy lifting.

The heavyweight champions here are definitely the plants! Adding some green to an otherwise neutral-heavy space brings some life and vibrance without destroying the tranquility you desperately need. Finishing this look with a variety of textures and shapes from the hard wood edges to the pair of round tables to the woven area rug makes this space feel comfortable, creative, and cozy.

This neutral bedroom incorporates beige and white with black accents to ground the space. The night stands with pendants hanging above elevate the space, giving you lighting and a gorgeous focal point! We love how this space feels lived-in without looking cluttery. With neutral tones, the soft textures of the rug and blankets are what make this room feel comfortable and cozy.

Picking a neutral color palette for this sitting area really make the shapes shine. We love how arches are carried throughout the design from the furniture to the architecture. This chair looks like a cloud and with the gorgeous light above it, anyone sitting here would feel like they’re in the heavens!

Pop of Color

A cozy home doesn’t have to be colorless! If neutrals don’t speak to you, try mixing them with a pop of color. It’ll give your room some excitement, but not so much that it’ll feel busy or chaotic.

This living room took a bold color and ran with it. The navy blue is a stunning contrast to this cozy tan leather couch. If we could copy and paste this look into our homes, we would! The neutrals pop against the accent wall and we couldn’t be more obsessed.

These red velvet pillows and drapes contrast with the neutral room and bring in some cozy texture. The bright colors spice up what might otherwise feel like a bland living room.

Monochromatic 

Choosing a monochromatic color scheme is a 2023 trend we love. It’s bold, but still soft. In a true monochromatic space, there isn’t extra visual stimuli for your brain to process. This gives your brain a sense of peace and calm you may not feel in a room with more going on in terms of color. These rooms use a simple color palette and the effect is cozy with a touch of elegance. 

Green is one of the most soothing colors. It can bring a sense of peace and harmony to your home. This couch and wall combo is no exception! Choosing to pair them with beautiful browns makes this sitting room look like it was plucked straight from nature, then given a facelift.

This kitchen uses the monochromatic color scheme to make it look bigger than it is. We especially love that extra wood cabinet with accent lighting both for functionality to store more and for decorative purposes. The calming blues make this a space you’d want to do some stress-baking in!

2. Add Soft Textures

Texture is a vital tool in an expert’s tool belt, especially when comfort is your end-goal. A space can be gorgeous, but if it feels like a place your grandma will yell at you for touching anything in, it won’t really feel comfortable. Texture is what takes a space from formal and austere to a beautiful, cozy space you can actually live in.

There’s no question this bedroom is gorgeous, but it also feels like a space you could spend time in without completely messing it up. The intentionally unkempt linens on this corner of the bed add simulated texture that makes it feel like home. We also love the green velvet accent pillow and floor pillows for an extra cozy touch! A lamp and pendant allows you to have dimmer or brighter lighting to accommodate your changing needs.

There is no world where a chunky-knit blanket and lots of pillows won’t scream comfort. The touches of fur on the rug and the side bench give it an extra dose of coziness. Anyone would love to curl up and hibernate here all winter! Light a few candles in the lanterns and switch on the pendant for the perfect reading spot at night.

This feminine bedroom is a corner of paradise! The colors are soft and gorgeous, but the textures are what really make this space magical. The velvet headboard brings delicate softness to the space. The textured pouf and cane-detailed night stand here are working overtime – and they should get paid for it! They bring elements of texture and give some seating and storage space. The blanket and soft rug are the finishing touches that would have anyone making excuses to retreat here for peace and quiet.

3. Soften Your Lighting

Harsh lighting is the opposite of comfortable! It’ll leave you with a headache and can actually make it harder for you to sleep at night. To bring in some much-needed comfort, you’ll need to soften up your lighting. In a room with soft lighting, the transition from light to dark is gradual and easy on the eyes. Avoid harsh shadows and balance your lights out using these three tips and your eyes and mood will thank you!

Dimmable Lighting

Switching to dimmable lights is a relatively simple way to soften your lights and make your lighting customizable. This cozy room is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Dim the lights 2 hours before bed to help yourself sleep better, then brighten them in the morning to jump start your mood and your day!

Layer Your Lights

Layering your lighting is a fool-proof way to give you adjustable light. Every room in your house should have at least a few light sources to make it feel more comfortable and eliminate any dark corners. Adding a few lamps across a room and some pendants will give you flexibility to have more or less light depending on your need and mood.

Accent Lighting

Accent lights are the finishing touches that make a room feel complete. They’re the piping on top of the icing on the cake! Adding them makes a room instantly feel warmer and more comfortable. Plus, they soften up your lighting by eliminating harsh shadows in areas that might otherwise go overlooked. Put sconces on an empty wall, strip lighting under cabinets like in this kitchen, or pendants above conversation areas. A room with warm, balanced lighting is a guaranteed ticket to having the relaxing ambiance you need for comfort.

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Listen, it’s 2023 and it’s time you started living your life in comfort! Choosing to design a cozy home is about more than just aesthetics. It’s about overall wellness! You deserve to live in a home you love, so it’s time to get started. With a little inspiration, the expert tips above, and help from Vogue Lighting you’ll be set! Give us a call and we’ll help you soften your lighting and give your home the extra relaxing boost it needs.

Decorating a Gorgeous Entryway – 5 Insider Tips You’ll Have to Steal

Decorating a Gorgeous Entryway – 5 Insider Tips You’ll Have to Steal

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A front entryway can say a lot about a home! When guests walks in, they know what to expect by the mood you create. Is it elegant or casual? Is there a spot for them to put their shoes and coats, or do they leave them on? Is it well-lit or is there a moody ambiance? No matter the mood you choose, make sure you’re intentional about it!

With a few tips and some inspiration from us, your entryway can say classy, comfortable, modern, or fashionable. They say not to judge a book by its cover, but if we were allowed to judge houses by their entryways, the rest of the rooms would be sure to deliver on beautiful design.

1. Rethink Your Furniture

One of the trickiest parts of styling a front entry is using the space effectively. If you have a roomy entryway, you may have room for a lot of furniture. With a smaller entryway or hall, however, you’ll have to be careful what pieces you choose to include – each one will count!

Benches

A bench is an entryway staple! It provides you and your guests with a spot to sit down while putting on shoes and can even offer storage (depending on what you get). These benches are just as pretty as they are practical.

This furniture has a small footprint that would fit even the smallest space! Since the bench doesn’t have built-in storage, there’s a basket for storing shoes or other outdoor accessories. The matching coat rack is functional and space-saving. Throw in a circular mirror for a quick hair check before you walk out the door, and you’re done!

This entryway couldn’t be any cozier! Adding a soft pillow and a blanket to a seating area is a simple trick to make any space feel homey. The only things we’d add are some hooks above the bench for coats and a spot for the shoes that are guaranteed to end up everywhere.

Entry Table

After adding a bench, next on our priority list is definitely an entry table. They can give you extra storage, show off your style, and are a great place for some accent lighting.

This entry table will fit in any space and the baskets give you some storage for your kids’ mess of winter accessories! Adding a couple of lamps on top is always a smart choice, too. They’ll light up your decorations and make them a focal point. The coordinating runner and artwork in this entryway are worth highlighting!

We love the clean lines and neutral-toned wood of this table. The decor is amazing and there’s tons of storage! Neutral books, a vase, a lamp, and a couple of knick-knacks are proportionally perfect.

This entryway is dripping in originality. Instead of using a traditional table, this homeowner chose a small dresser – genius! When you have less space to work with, every piece of furniture matters. Choosing a dresser with drawers ensures you have a place to toss any mess without going to any extra effort.

Built-In Furniture

If you’re looking for a storage solution that’ll contain any mess, creating a mud room-style entryway with built-in furniture will give you more storage than you’ll know what to do with!

When you’re coming back from a long day, the last thing you want to do is take a trip all the way to your room to put away your things. Instead, create a one-stop shop for your everyday items. Hooks can hold backpacks, purses, hats, and jackets. Shoes can be stored under the bench and anything else can go in the baskets above.

Built-in furniture doesn’t have to take up tons of space to be effective! This entryway has all the room you need for storing your essentials. This modern entryway is gorgeous, but we’re obviously giving our gold medal to the stunning light fixture that completes the look.

2. Update or Add Lighting

Speaking of lighting, no entryway is complete without it! From chandeliers to lamps, we have all the styling tips you’ll need to make your entry shine.

Chandeliers

A big entryway with high ceilings calls for a chandelier – the space will feel empty without it. This chandelier will wow your guests from the moment they walk in the door!

This entryway’s door coordinates perfectly with the chandelier they hung! Because the door and chandelier have such warm tones, the gray and brown hexagonal tile was a great choice to cool off the look, while still tying in the warmth. The huge mirror on the wall is also a smart choice because it’ll reflect light, giving this homeowner the most possible lighting for their dollar.

Your entryway doesn’t have to be 16 feet tall to hang a chandelier! This front room’s fixture makes the space ornate and delicate – like something out of a Jane Austen book. Chandeliers can make a statement in any space – just be sure to hang them properly so you don’t run into them!

Chandeliers make any space feel luxurious, but there’s something especially stunning about the way this one hangs over a baby grand piano. You can picture a family gathered around the piano singing carols on Christmas Eve with chandelier’s light twinkling on them – pure magic!

Lamps

A floor lamp is a great way to add dimension and height to your design. This one provides focused lighting for putting on your shoes and coat before you rush out the door. We also love the organization of the shelves in this entry.

Lighting doesn’t have to be complicated! Adding a basic table lamp is a low-effort way to make a big difference in your design. It flows seamlessly with the other tabletop knick-knacks, but it’s also practical.

Sconces

The indoor sconces in this entryway are a smart solution for lighting that won’t take up loads of extra room. This homeowner even added a mirror that will reflect some of that gorgeous light!

This creative entryway’s sconce is modern, chic, and well-placed. Accent lighting is key to making your life easier. No more fumbling around in the dark to tie your shoes or buckle the strap on your heels!

3. Get a Rug

A rug is an anchor for furniture that would otherwise float! Since the entryway is a heavily-trafficked area, a rug can also help protect your floors. They’re easily replaced while flooring is, well…not. 

This brown rug makes this home’s entry area feel cohesive. Without it, the room would feel more like a collection of random furniture! Its neutral color makes it a great piece to keep around even if you switch out furniture.

This jute rug brings warmth and texture to a room otherwise lacking both! It also adds a flair of bohemian that we’re loving.

4. Hang a Mirror

Mirrors are one of our favorite design hacks. They reflect light, make a space look bigger, and are perfect for entryways.

You can’t go wrong with a big round mirror! The black finish on this ties in with the basket and pillow nicely. It’s a piece you won’t regret buying.

This pretty floor-length mirror is in the ideal place for a last-minute outfit check! Do those shoes really work with your outfit the way you thought they would? A quick glance in this mirror and you’re set to go.

A check-the-outfit station is a must-have in an entryway. This arched floor-length mirror is also perfectly placed to reflect natural light from the window and light from this cute pendant.

A classic circular mirror is also a great last-minute stop to make sure there isn’t any breakfast in your teeth! We also love the creativity of the shelving unit here.

5. Get Creative

Possibly the most important tip we can give is to be creative! Every space is a little different so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all when it comes to designing an entryway. These spaces radiate creativity and may give you a few ideas for decorating yours.

When your real estate is less of an estate and more of an apartment, you have to use every inch wisely! The bench and hook shelf combo serves the function of a hallway tree, but is a bit smaller and could be partially DIY-ed to save money. To get even more creative, this homeowner could replace the clock with a mirror and a floor lamp for more dimension and lighting.

This adorable entry uses a garment rack to store shoes and coats. Practical, but still pretty especially if you don’t have a coat closet. The wood tones match the bench and frames and the plants bring in some life!

Creativity and boldness go hand-in-hand. If you’re feeling brave, ditch the neutrals and pick a bright color palette that’ll attract some attention. Go bold, go home, or pick door number 3 and go bold at home!

This space is about as creative as it gets! A sideways ladder-like coat rack looks like something a handy homeowner could DIY. This bench looks like it was also DIY-ed – maybe out of old shutters? Whatever it is, it’s a crafty way to give you a bench with storage underneath.

We’ve got one word for this picture: mood. Instead of picking light and bright colors, try out a richer, moodier color. Nothing will take your entryway to luxury faster than picking a darker color palette! We love the contrast of the gold lamp and sunburst mirror against the gray in this one.

Another clever way to create an entryway is to dedicate a corner in your front room as your entry zone. Putting a rug down makes it feel like a cohesive space, then adding an entry table and bench seals the deal. This space also has some built-in shelves we’re obsessing over! They add a trendy touch and the decorations can be switched out whenever you get bored.

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When you’re ready to get started decorating your entryway, we’re here to help. Come visit Vogue Lighting for some more expert advice! With our help and these 5 tips, you’ll have a front entry everyone will envy!

How to Fix a Noisy Ceiling Fan

How to Fix a Noisy Ceiling Fan

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Ceiling fans can change your life – or at the very least your outlook on life – with just a flip of the switch on a hot, stuffy, muggy day. There’s something magical about the way they can change the entire way a room feels, making it comfortable in seconds. 

But what happens when this miracle-worker of a ceiling fixture starts affecting the ambiance in ways it shouldn’t? A noisy, squeaky ceiling fan will make the room it’s in unbearable no matter the temperature. If your noisy ceiling fan is making you miserable, it might be easier to fix than you realize. With just a little investigation and willingness to tinker, you could be on your way to cooler days ahead. 

There are a number of reasons your fan may be making more noise than it should – we’ll go over some of the most common issues and what you can do to bring back the peace and quiet.

1. Problem: Dirt

Just like every other surface of your home, your ceiling fan collects dust over time. This is especially true if your fan sits idle over the winter months, but even a fan that’s on 24/7 will get dirty over time. 

Take a damp rag and wipe down your ceiling fan, starting from the top. Be sure to wipe all sides and edges of the blades. If dirt was the culprit, you’ll notice right away that your fan is quieter once you’re done. 

2. Problem: Damaged Blades

Over time, some fan blades may warp. This is especially true for fans that have blades made of cheap composite materials, fans in humid environments, and extra-wide fans. Look at each blade from the side – each blade should be tilted at the same angle and lay flat. If you find a blade that is bent or wavy, it could be throwing off the balance of your fan, causing it to wobble.

If you can, carefully bend the blade back into shape. If it’s not fixable, you may be able to order a replacement blade from the manufacturer. 

3. Problem: Loose Parts

When your ceiling fan is in use there are a lot of moving parts, but if a part that shouldn’t be moving has come loose, you’ll hear a rattling sound. Thoroughly check your fan for loose screws. Common pieces that come loose include the canopy (the piece against the ceiling), the light kit (some fans may not have lights), and the fan blades.

Using a screwdriver, carefully tighten each screw you can find. Be careful not to over-tighten any screws, as it could damage your fan. If your fan has parts that snap into place, like a light cover, make sure those parts are seated properly. 

If you’ve checked all of the above and your fan still seems to be rattling or unstable, you may need to remove the canopy and double-check that the mounting screws attaching your fan to the ceiling are secure.

4. Problem: Grinding in the Motor

If the simple fixes above don’t resolve your noisy fan woes, it’s possible that the motor in your fan is running without sufficient oil. Ceiling fan motors and bearings need lubricant to run smoothly – without it, you may notice a sound that’s more like a buzz than a rattle. Each ceiling fan has different requirements for the proper way to add oil to the motor. We recommend checking your manufacturer’s user manual for specific instructions. 

If you’re not comfortable with taking your fan apart to get to the motor, this task might be a good place to bring in a professional.

Turning on your ceiling fan on a hot day should be a dream come true, not your worst nightmare. The good news is – most noisy ceiling fans can be fixed with nothing more than a thorough cleaning and a checkup with a screwdriver. In less than an hour you can be back to enjoying a blissful breeze in the comfort of your home.

If your fan is still making noise after you’ve checked for dirt, loose parts, and damaged blades, and oiled the motor, it might be time for a new, quality ceiling fan that can keep you cool for years to come. 

Before you go out and buy the first fan you see – stop by our showroom and ask around. Our lighting experts can help you find what you’re looking for, and we guarantee that our fans won’t start squeaking at the first sign of a heatwave!

Step-by-Step Guide to Home Lighting Renovation

Step-by-Step Guide to Home Lighting Renovation

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How to Plan, Prioritize, Budget, and Make it Happen

Updating the lighting in your home is one of the quickest ways to give your house a facelift. It’s easy to accidentally overspend on your house’s lighting if you don’t have the right information, but not to worry! With a few pro tips and some help from Vogue Lighting, your home will feel brighter and look better – without breaking the bank.

1. Make a Plan

Before you start tearing lights out, pull up a chair and make a solid plan. When you’re on a budget, prioritizing which spaces need the most love is key. Look in each room and make sure all your spaces have multiple lighting sources to eliminate shadows and illuminate workspaces. 

Once you’ve done that, think about lighting focal points. Where do you want your lights to make the biggest impact? A few places to consider starting are: above the dining room table, in the living room, and in the bedrooms.

Pro tip: Make a list of all the fixtures you want in order of importance–it will come in handy later!

2. Evaluate Your Budget

Do your research and be realistic about your needs and wants. Knowing how much you can spend and being an informed buyer will help you make the most of your money and avoid overspending. 

Take a look at your budget and decide on two numbers – the amount you’d like to spend, and the highest amount you’re willing to spend. Then, put together some ballpark estimates for the fixtures you want. 

When you walk into the showroom prepared, you can put your money where it matters most!  It’ll also help us to know what price range you’re looking at to match you with the perfect fixture!

Pro tip: Don’t forget to include the costs of professional installation and light bulbs in your estimate! 

3. Prioritize Your Needs

If you’re renovating on a budget, ask yourself: Which light fixtures will make the biggest difference in my house? Remember that list of fixtures you made earlier? Pull it out and prepare to rearrange it. 

Prioritize fixtures that give off ambient, or full-room, light. Once you have those at the top of the list, move on to task lighting. Any workspaces will need additional lighting above them (kitchen counters, bathroom vanities, desks, etc.).

If you still have room in your budget, consider adding accent lighting to features in your home you want to highlight. Moving from general to specific will help you narrow your focus to what really matters, and light your house without running low on change.

4. Pick Your Fixtures

It’s easy to get sticker shock when you start looking at light fixtures. When you’re choosing lights for your renovation, you have two options: you can get a cheap fixture that will work for now, or you can get a quality fixture that will work for years. 

While there is a time and a place for inexpensive fixtures, just remember that buying lights that will stand the test of time will actually save you money in the long run. 

You also need to keep in mind how often you want to redecorate. Trendy fixtures will look outdated much faster than classic styles. If you don’t want to be repeating this process again in 5 years, get a classic, quality fixture that won’t need to be replaced when the fads change.

Pro Tip: Selling your old fixtures online can give you a little extra to put towards your next lighting purchase.

5. Remember the Bulbs

While LED lights cost a little more up front, they use at least 75% less energy, and they last up to 25 times longer than traditional light bulbs. To be sure you’ll see savings on your electrical bill, look for bulbs with the Energy Star rating logo on the packaging. 

Don’t make the mistake of buying bulbs that you’ll just have to replace in a few months! Be sure to work LED bulbs into your budget–we promise it’ll pay off!

6. Do It Yourself

One major cost of updating lighting is installation. In many cases, a handy homeowner with the help of a few Youtube tutorials can save money by doing it themselves. You may also consider installing some lights yourself and having others professionally installed–dropping a heavy chandelier would put a dent in your budget (and your floor)!

However, if you’re going to go this route, researching and implementing all the safety precautions is non-negotiable. Being well-educated can save you from causing a fire, burns, or other safety hazards.

If you’re unsure about doing it yourself, no worries. Just make sure to factor the professional help you need into your overall budget!

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Updating and replacing lighting on a budget can feel like a daunting task, but with these tips and our expertise, you can’t go wrong! The step-by-step guide we made will help you have amazing lighting without feeling financially strapped.

If you get stuck on any of these steps, give us a call and we’d love to chat about solutions.

5 Easy Steps to Create a Modern Minimalist Interior

5 Easy Steps to Create a Modern Minimalist Interior

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With an intentional lack of furniture and decorations, minimalist design can sometimes come off as cold and uncomfortable. Over the past few years, as we’ve spent more time in our homes than ever before, the need for comfort in a home design has been made crystal clear.

Today’s modern minimalism prioritizes simplicity with a decluttered and uncomplicated aesthetic, while also emphasizing the need for comfort in a space. You’ll see more color and accessories than the minimalist interiors of the past had, but they’ll be thoughtfully chosen extras that provide warmth and life to the space without going overboard. 

Whether you’re interested in adopting a minimalist lifestyle or just love the simple yet dramatic design aesthetic, modern minimalism is an achievable aesthetic for just about anyone! 

To help you get started, we broke down the basics of modern minimalist interior design into a handful of easy steps you can use to confidently focus on the right essentials. 

1. Create an Open Floor Plan

Focus on creating as much connected open space as possible. Obviously, taking out walls is the easiest way to create an open floor plan. But if you’re not in a place where you can tear down walls, there are some simple and subtle tricks you can use to make adjoining spaces feel more connected. 

One way to connect spaces in your home is to use the same flooring and wall paint colors for the entire space. This will make rooms look like they belong together, even through a doorway. 

A unique accent, like this minimalist pendant light, grabs your attention through the doorway from across the way, which helps your brain perceive the two spaces as one.

Finally, play around with your furniture placement to maximize your space. In smaller spaces, this often means keeping large furniture close to the walls to keep open pathways throughout but don’t underestimate the power of a simple, low-profile, floating sofa used to define a space.

2. Choose a Small Color Palette

A classic hallmark of minimalist design is a neutral monochromatic color palette, typically in warm grey, white, or beige tones. Contrast is important – add dimension and balance with a mix of darker and lighter shades within your color palette.

If an all-neutral color palette just isn’t your thing, you can still get a modern minimalist look with color – you just need to stick to a small palette. Keep most of the colors you use very light, to increase the feeling of airiness and reflect light best. 

3. Functional Design is Key

It doesn’t matter how pretty a room is, if it’s inconvenient or difficult to use you’re not going to be happy with it. When you’re trying to adopt modern minimalism, understanding how to pare down to only the essentials can be hard. When you’re going through your room, ask yourself:

 “Does this serve a purpose?”   “Do I already have something that serves this purpose?”   “Is there a multipurpose option that will serve this purpose and others?” 

Just remember, there’s no hard and fast rule for what it means to be “functional” – and you don’t need to justify every item you love to keep it in your home. A funky decorative pillow that makes you smile when you see it is serving a purpose (and it’s making your couch more comfortable – so it’s multifunctional!) 

A huge part of functional design is organization. Decluttering for a modern minimalist space involves reducing “visual clutter” too! Things not actively being used should have a home where they can be tucked away until they’re needed. 

Opt for storage options that have doors that will hide the things you’re not using.  When styling open shelving, choose items that match your color palette, leave plenty of open space, and use boxes or baskets to organize and hide loose items.

Don’t be surprised if you get down to the basics and you aren’t in love with what you have left. You’ll likely need to start making smart trades here and there to end up with a set of basics that you love.

4. Add Light – Lots of It

Like most modern design aesthetics, modern minimalism focuses on filling the space with light. Where possible, introduce as much natural light as you can. The light colors on your walls and floors will reflect it – making your room feel open and airy. 

In addition to natural light, a modern minimalist space needs a well-thought-out interior lightscape. Make sure your general ambient light is bright without being harsh, and add extra lighting in dark corners and over workspaces. Hidden lights, like LED strips under a cabinet, are an inexpensive DIY trick with a big payoff! 

Because minimalism is all about doing less with more, it’s okay to be choosy about how you add light to your space – you don’t want to clutter up your home with a floor lamp in every dark spot! When you’re shopping for fixtures, stick to simple shapes that can double as design elements.

5. Finish it Off with Thoughtful Accents

Little pops of color and texture are what take a modern minimalist space from blah to wow. You can do this in a number of ways, but remember to keep it simple. Start with just one color or texture and see how it feels before committing to more. 

When possible, look for ways to upgrade your existing decor rather than adding extra items. Look for functional pieces that you need in your space, but feel a little lackluster, and find a more interesting alternative. Replace an old, overstuffed sofa with a simpler version in a deep color (as long as it’s in your color palette!) or give an old end table new life with a coat of paint.

Pro Tip: If you have a hard time committing to color, consider using houseplants! They introduce a vibrant green color and soft, organic textures, which can balance out a minimalist design quite nicely.

By far, one of the most effective ways to accent a modern minimalist design is with an interesting light fixture. Your room will always need light, so it might as well be an integrated part of the design! 

A stunning ceiling light with a simple shape will stand out as a piece of art against a minimalist backdrop and elevate the entire design of the space. 

Pendant lamps are popular in modern minimalist design because they come in simple shapes with lots of finish options, so it’s easy to find something that will match your aesthetic. 

If replacing a ceiling fixture isn’t an option, you can get a similar impact with a carefully chosen floor lamp! Lamps are the MVP of accent lighting for a reason – they’re easy to move, replace, and rearrange, and come in a HUGE variety of styles. You can go for something small that blends in, but we also love the way a large, yet simple, lamp like this one makes a statement without taking over. 

That’s all there is to it! Just to recap, here are the 5 easy steps to create a modern minimalist interior: 

  1. Create an open floor plan – Tie separate spaces together with color and materials and rearrange furniture to maximize your space.
  2. Choose a small color palette – Neutrals are your friend, but it’s okay to add in a little bit of color to make your space feel like you.
  3. Remember functionality – Use multipurpose furniture, and organize, organize, organize. Store things that aren’t being used so that they’re not cluttering up your space.
  4. Add light – Having lots of natural and indoor lighting is what makes your space feel open and airy. Light up dark corners and workspaces.
  5. Finish it off with thoughtful accents – Don’t over-accessorize. Pops of color and texture give life to a space, but try to incorporate these add-ons with the functional elements of your space – like a colored sofa or an upgraded light fixture.

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Modern minimalist design can be a difficult concept to balance, but it’s very forgiving and so beautiful when done correctly. If you need help finding the right lighting for your modern minimalist home, our experts at Vogue Lighting can help!