Email from American Lighting Association

November 2024

Create a Feast for Your Eyes

Great taste is not just for dinner & dessert

A superbly set table featuring a spectacular light fixture will provide a tempting focal point and set a festive tone for your holiday celebration. The perfect fixture, or grouping of fixtures, is more than a light source. Much like a work of art, beautiful lighting provides a special aesthetic. While lighting is often one of various design elements, in the right space, a well-chosen fixture can be just as delicious as the finest cuisine.

When selecting your perfect statement fixture, it’s a good idea to visit an ALA-member showroom for a no-pressure consultation to ensure you find a high-quality, long-lasting, functional fixture in the appropriate size, complementary style, and most pleasing configuration for your space. That’s a lot to consider all by yourself. Let an ALA-trained professional do the work for you.

Revelation by Uttermost

Kichler

Light it right with layers

For optimal function and flair, layer each room's lighting to adjust for different situations and to illuminate dark areas and special features.

The various layers of lighting should work together to provide ample ambient (general) lighting, task lighting for specific activities, and accent lighting to highlight special features and help define individual living zones.

Multiple fixture types may be appropriate for the various layers of light depending on what is needed. Sconces may serve as ambient light in one space and as task lighting in another. Pendants may provide general lighting in one installation and serve as accent lighting somewhere else. That is where professionally trained lighting experts at ALA-member showrooms are helpful. They can help determine what type and style of lighting is appropriate and attractive for each situation.

Find your best light at a nearby ALA-member lighting showroom . For more lighting tips, go to ALALighting.com.

Ambient lighting often comes from hanging or flush-mounted fixtures. Ceiling lights, such as cans or spots, also work well for this layer.

Task lighting may be provided by portable lamps, small pendants, mini spots, or any source capable of directing sufficient illumination onto a specific spot.

Accent lighting sets the mood and helps distinguish one part of a space from another. This type of lighting often comes from sconces or small portables. Dimmers are a must for accent lighting.

Savoy House

The best way to prepare to shop for new lighting is to peruse the latest issue of Lighting magazine. A fixture change can be a major purchase meant to define your home for years.

The inspiration and tips throughout the magazine will help define and narrow your search for a comfortable and stress-free shopping experience. View Lighting magazine digitally at Ideas.Lighting or pick up a printed copy at a local ALA-member showroom. For more ideas, go online to ALALighting.com.

American Lighting Association