Lighting Tips and Trends

Shine Labs Lighting 

Paint color, check; fabric swatches, check; area rug, check; accessories, check; sectional sofa with matching coffee table, check;  all the appropriate items needed to create a highly sophisticated living room ....well not exactly. The most crucial and impactful item is missing from the check list, Lighting. Without proper and adequate lighting the decorated space will never hold up to its full potential. Lighting makes or breaks an interior design and contributes greatly to the aura of a space.

Light Layering

Add drama and visual interest to your room by utilizing a technic called light layering.  Light layering is incorporated into a space by using three basic layers of light: ambient, accent, and task lighting. Ambient lighting is the primary source of illumination in a space. Accent lighting is used to emphasize architectural and decorative elements; for example, art lights and wall washers. Task lighting is used for a specific purpose such as reading, craft, and cooking. 

 This bathroom sketch from Better Homes and Gardens displays correct execution of light layering. The Chandelier provides ambient lighting, accent lighting comes from the table lamp, and the vanity bar is used for task lighting. 

Another example of light layering provided by Better Homes and Gardens:  The recessed cans provide overhead ambient lighting; task lighting comes from the table lamps, and the art light above the bed creates accent lighting.

Natural Lighting

Elevate one’s mood by taking advantage of the sun’s radiance; knowing the sun’s position in relation to your home helps when deciding where to position furniture and which room to choose for a specific function.  Rooms with windows facing north don’t let much sunlight in however; windows facing south receive plenty of light during the day. East facing windows administer sufficient sunlight during the morning, sufficient sunlight can be found during the afternoon in rooms with windows facing west. Natural light also makes a room appear larger and lessens the demands on electrical use. 

Natural sunlight joyously bounces off both vertical and horizontal surfaces in this elegant bathroom. 

Skylights provide an ample amount of natural light in the space above

LED Lights

In the past few years, LED lights have become most popular in residential lighting; they are the way of the future. Hands down LED lights are the most environmentally friendly. Here is the reason why, they consume approximately one-fifth of the energy and have a life span 30 times that of an incandescent light bulb.

LED light bulb

Orbit LED Pendant Fixture 

Dimmers

Dimmers are highly recommended! They provide an easy way to alter the mood of a space with just a touch a button.  Dimmers allow increased bulb life and conserve energy. 

Lutron Dimmer

Lutron Dimmer Effect (Proper demonstration of light layering) 

Lighting Trends 

Create and Barrel Table Lamp: Metal and Metallic Lighting

are hot contemporary choices for Lighting Trends in 2011

Photo from HGTV: Fancy Chandelier full of character hangs gracefully

above dining room table, matching wall sconces hang on adjacent wall.

Basket lights hang over sleek Contemporary island while creating a dramatic sun burst pattern of illumination on the wood paneled ceiling. 

Consider implementing these tips and trends into your home. Transform your home by the adoption of light layering. Lower the cost of your energy bill and conserve natural resources by switching to LED light bulbs and the use of dimmers.  

By Valene Greene 

www.veluxeinteriors.com 

Caribbean Architecture

Hillsborough Plantation, Dominica 

Architecture in the Caribbean can be traced back to indigenous Caribbean Amerindians, the Arawak and Carib Indians. Unfortunately the Amerindians had no written communication leaving no description of their architecture.  However, Christopher Columbus documented descriptions of their dwellings.

Amerindians built tent like huts made from palm fronds with cone shaped roofs. Structural plans were circular and approximately 14 feet in diameter. Materials such as wild cane, rush, and bamboo were also used.  Although quite simple in structure, the huts with stood strong winds and even hurricanes.

Amerindian Hut 

Fast forward to European arrival and African diaspora to the Caribbean; Spanish, French, English, Dutch, Native Indian and African influences was widely present in Caribbean Architecture. Characteristics included steep gables roofs, low facades, wide verandas, and shuttered windows.

Below are photos of Historical Architecture found in Antigua, Dominica, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, and Curacao.

Antigua:

The Copper and Lumber Store 

The Copper and Lumber Store was built around 1783 by Lord Nelson as a storehouse for copper and lumber. Today the Georgian inspired building is now used as a hotel.

The Copper and Lumber Store

Hemingway’s Caribbean Café 

Hemingway’s is located in St John’s Antigua. It was once a well-known hotel were Ernest Hemingway, American author, frequently visited. Today the it is a popular bar and eatery. The building’s roof has been altered throughout the years but its original wooden structure and veranda holds true to its traditional form.

Hemingway's Caribbean Cafe 

Dominica:

Rose’s Cottage

Rose’s Cottage is a Creole style structure characterized by its wood siding, small front porch, and glass panels in front door.

Rose's Cottage 

Bonnet Roof

A Bonnet roof is a French architectural style that is specific to Dominica Architecture. It is a four pitched roof which hangs over the structure to create protection from the rain and the sun.  

Bonnet Roof

Jamaica:

Devon House

The Devon House was built in 1881 and was the home of George Stiebel, Jamaica’s first black millionaire. The Georgian influenced mansion is composed of brick and covered with wood. Verandas with balustrade decks wrap around the house on both floors. Today acclaimed restaurants and shops can be found at the Devon House.

Devon House 

Dominican Republic:

Tostado House

The Tostado House was built in the 16th century, home to Francisco Tostado, the first native university professor. The two-story house was built using stone, brick, and stucco. Today the Tostado House is the Museum of the Dominican Family where many documents on Dominican National Heritage can be found.

Tostado House

Curacao:

 
Central Historic Archives

The Central Historic Archives was built in the 19th century in Scharloo, Curacao. Architectural features include arcade arches, balustrades, and applied elaborate ornaments above columns.

Central Historic Archives 

As you can see the Caribbean is filled with beautiful historic architecture. I encourage you to visit these amazing islands, as I will one day. Please feel free to share your historic architectural findings.

Sources:
Searching for Sugar Mills: An Architectural Guide to Eastern Caribbean by Susan Gordon
Historical Architecture in the Caribbean Islands by Edward Crain

By Valene Greene
www.veluxeinteriors.com

 

 


 

Summer Inspirations for the Home

In a few weeks summer begins; the sun shines and birds sing. After the dreadful blizzards brought on by Old Man Winter, it’s time to bring joy and warmth indoors with summer inspirations listed below. 

           Bright Vibrant Colors

           Flowers/ Framed Pressed Flowers

           Mirrors & Reflective Surfaces

           Slipcovers/ Throw Pillows 

           Lighten Window Treatments 

           Display Fresh Fruits 

           Combine and Mix Furniture 

Bright Vibrant Colors: Enliven your home and uplift your spirits with bold vibrant hues such as fuchsia, teal, fire orange and pastel greens.  The color trend for spring and summer 2011 is honeysuckle (rosy pink).

Flowers/ Framed Pressed Flowers: Stimulate your sense of sight and smell with floral arrangements.  Get creative and use the flowers from your garden in art work such as framed pressed flowers.

Mirrors & Reflective Surfaces: Utilizes mirrors and reflective surfaces to scatter sunlight throughout your space.  Mirrors are also an excellent way to add depth and length to your space.  

Slipcovers / Throw Pillows: Throw pillows and slipcovers offer an easy and quick method for incorporating color and dynamic to a space without a permanent commitment. 

Lighten Window Treatments: Replace thick and heavy winter curtains with lace or sheer curtains. Woven shades are also an awesome summer look for your home.

Display Fresh Fruits: Add a dash of color to your kitchen by displaying summer fruits. This will also be a helpful reminder of recommended daily fruit intake, yes daily. 

Combine and Mix Furniture:  Rearrange furniture in the living room, bedroom, and or family room to create a new exciting layout and look in a familiar space. Create a reading nook in the Family Room with the arm chair found in the Master Bedroom. Take a side table from the Living Room and use it as a bed side table in a Bedroom. Dust off the buffet table in the garage which you purchased at last year’s flea market. Add a coat of paint to it and use in the dining room or kitchen.

The smallest changes in your home can be the most effective when executed in a proper manner.

Happy Summer! 

By: Valene Greene 

Veluxe Interiors

www.veluxeinteriors.com 

Modern vs. Contemporary Decor

Mid-Century Modern 

After overcoming the bewildering array of decor styles you have decided to decorate that big deluxe apartment in the sky with Modern decor; but you're having trouble differentiating between Modern and Contemporary Design. Well, despite the similarities and at times the interchangeable use, in the Design world both terms represent distinct and different styles. 

Modern Design refers to an architecture and interior design style that emerged in the mid-20th century. Mid-Century Modern deviated from the classical and traditional ideas of decor and gave birth to the conception of a whole new aesthetic based on minimalist forms and emphasis on function. 

The Mid- Century Modern style included natural materials like teak wood, leather, and linen upholstery. Furniture was characterized by angular forms, low profiles, and modularity. Walls were neutral color schemes with pops of color in furnishings, accessories, and fabrics. Some of the most well-known Modern Designers are: George Nelson, Charles & Ray Eames, Mies van der Rohe, Eero Saarinen, and Florence Knoll. They created organically shaped furniture using the new technologies and materials developed during WWII. Their designs could be easily mass produced, creating aesthetic designs at affordable prices. Below are photos of typical Mid-Century decor and furniture designs by the Designers listed. 

Natural color pallet, Minimalism, Eames lounge chair and
ottoman, and Concrete floors combine to create a Modern interiror

                                                                                    

Classic Mies van der Rohe Barcelona Chair and Ottoman 

Splash of color against neutral wall color, geometric and abstract
pattern in rug and painting, and teak wood also create a Modern Interior

Natural pallet allows the objects in design to take center stage.
Classic Florence Knoll Sofa and Credenza reproduction and typical mid-century modern glass center table

Contemporary Design refers to the current styles and trends of today. With Contemporary Design there is more freedom when choosing decor. Styles such as Traditional and Chic can be mixed to create a brand new look. 


Although Contemporary Design is always evolving, there are some attributes that tend to always stick. Furniture is generally the primary focal point. Recycled and Eco-friendly materials are frequently used. Ceilings are high and window treatments are unembellished. Since the style bears minimalism as its base, decor is kept simple. At times Modern decor can be found in Contemporary Interiors. 


Latest trends can be found in high-end Interior Design showrooms and the latest design magazines. Below are a few examples of Contemporary decor. 

Modular seating and minimalist decor in neutral tones borrow from modern style
while setting  the stage for a sophisticated contemporary style. 

Aluminum and blackened steel dining table, 19th century
English pine urns, and early 19th century Italian upholstered
chairs fuse to create contemporary style.

Cozy throw pillows on sofas, graphic patterns, simplicity
of drapery, and bright vibrant monochromatic
color scheme contribute to contemporary style.

While Modern Design will always refer to Mid-Century Modern decor, Contemporary will always refer to what is current. Twenty years from now, contemporary decor will be something entirely different from what it is today.

By Valene Greene 

www.veluxeinteriors.com