Exterior Lighting for Interiors

After much thought/debate on non rated UL fixtures in a bathroom from a previous post Chandeliers Brightening up the Bathroom the thought ran through my mind…….”just what exactly are some attractive options of exterior fixtures that can be used on the inside?”  With that question looming, it felt like it was time to source and share some products that are rated for wet locations that would compliment many interior settings.  Along with these products are several (OK many) inspiration rooms with fixtures that have the look (or maybe are) of exterior fixtures.  Since this concept seems to be quite popular, there is an abundance of wonderful items and images shown and it was hard to limit the choices.

Welcome, let’s see how an outdoor styled fixture can invite guests into your home.   
An iron lantern takes center stage with the dark wood doors (Image left). Phoebe Howard designs a house in the Hamptons which has guests greeted by a beautiful staircase and antique styled lantern. (image right)

If you love good design, amazing quality and attention to detail, than you are going to want to become familiar with  FINE ART, a premier U.S. manufacturer of designer lighting. All their designs are developed in-house with a team of over thirty design and development specialists.  Be ready these are some pretty scrumptious outdoor hanging fixtures.  Any of these beauties would look lovely hanging in a foyer or staircase landing.

LET’S TAKE A PEAK UPSTAIRS:

 
Jessica Lagrange Interiors (Image left).            Kay Douglas (image right)

 Phoebe Howard  with that fabulous railing she pairs it with a white lantern in the upstairs landing.  In the background a lantern that draws you and your eye into the bedroom.

Nate Berkus uses a lantern sconce in a hall, then take a peek at that fabulous round flush mount light in the bedroom at the foot of the bed.

Let’s see what is cooking up in the kitchen, shall we?

  
Multiple interesting shaped pendants hang over the island and in front of the windows giving the feel of a  rustic yet sophisticated space with it’s leather bar stools and dark wood cabinets. 
        
Some rustic and refined pendants that could be comfortable lighting up any interior. 

                              

The iron pendant lights over the granite island adds warmth and character to this elegant kitchen.

This generously sized cathedral-shaped fixture from Restoration Hardware would look very much at home indoors, in fact…..

This striking kitchen displays a large lantern over the wood top island that resembles the one from RH.

   
Corbett Lighting offers an attractive scroll detail on their outdoor Vineyard Hill Collection.  A pair of like lanterns hang beautifully in this charming kitchen. 

 TIME TO EAT:
RIVER DUNES IDEAS HOUSE: The interior designer uses large-scale accents for instant impact. Here, the bold oversize hanging lantern will illuminate the space with its size and proportion create a simple yet graphic look.

                     Elle Decor
The men behind Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters give 'eclectic' a new attitude in their Manhattan Apartment dining room with an antique French lantern over an English table with a billiard bench.   

                           
An array of lantern styled UL rated options: (click on photo for source) 

Loi Thai, owner of the ultra chic antiques shop Tone on Tone in Bethesda, illuminates his light and airy dining room with an oversized dramatic lantern. Grounding the space balances out the gorgeous table.

         
An assortment of iron and glass fixtures that would work nicely in a range of interior settings. A classic vintage looking lantern paired with gorgeous old French door cabinet creates a nice ambiance in which to enjoy a meal. Cottage Living.

 TIME TO RELAX:  Don’t forget to bring your glass of wine……….

  Eric Cohler 

 The very affordable Pottery Barn Armonk Chandelier  would work in various places throughout the home. 

  Kay Douglas
True to the Belgian style, this family room is comfortable and inviting but without a lot of furniture. Ancient French doors open into a custom media cabinet and provide the room's dramatic focal point.  With the hefty antique iron chandelier competing for it’s presence to be noticed. 

And……the living room that needs no introduction, Joni’s from Cote De Texas, who wishes she had made the switch from ceiling fan to lantern sooner.  Joni recently did a blog on her Top 10 Design Elements #5 Lighting and as always offers a wealth of information and displays an abundance of gorgeous images. 

Let’s go find a good book: Barry Dixon creates a cozy retreat in a expansive upstairs landing by grounding it with a massive lantern.

TIME TO WASH UP:

  Barry Dixon (again, what can I say, I love that man!) the luxurious rustic & refined lantern adds yet another romantic element to this already dreamy divine bath.

     
I  love these exterior fixtures by Troy from their Portola Collection.  With their hand forged iron, they have a vintage somewhat Parisian flair to them that would work well in a bath, sunroom, or porch.  But, would also look just at home over a great dining table or kitchen nook, or even a bedroom.

 
UL rated lights can be found in many shapes, sizes, and styles, including oodles of wall scones that work well in many interior applications. 

Phoebe Howard from Cote De Texas   I am just crazy in love with the pattern on the floor.

TME TO RETIRE: Where shall we lay our head to rest?  
Phoebe Howard (yes, again, I love her too :)) Imbues a nice balance of elegance and casualness by introducing lanterns into the bedroom.

         

                              
Jessica Lagrange adds a touch more femininity by introducing an attractive scrolled lantern over the bed.

  
In a city apartment Phoebe Howard uses a beautiful glass lantern in this relaxing bedroom.

There are also wonderful opportunities to find an old fixture and have it wired, updating it to code. Not rated for wet locations, but these are just too pretty that it would be a shame not to share them.
     
South of Market has some amazing antique lanterns and other light fixtures sourced from France and Belgium. Since the stores conception, the hunt is ongoing for the rare, the beautiful and the can’t live without items for the home.

 
Also, not intended for outdoors are these lovely lanterns that are reinterpreted for indoor use are Restoration Hardware’s replica of a 19th-century Italian gas streetlight is true  to its Amalfi Coast roots and would make a substantial statement. in any space.  

Drapery: Designing Is In The Details

Window treatments, they bring so much interest to a room and they should always be considered when designing a house, yet it seems to be something that is not implemented nearly enough. They can add romance, coziness, warmth, texture, softness, and a splash of color if needed. You simply cannot go wrong by adding some attractive window treatments to your home. Without them it’s like going to the ball in a gown without the jewels adorning/accenting and complimenting the attire.

Here is some inspiration and thoughts to hopefully help motivate.

Window treatments do not need to block a window, instead, they can frame them and enhance a view.

Please……don’t be fooled, for they can be very tricky – they need to be designed and created correctly in order for them to blend adding the perfect touch/style to fit your space. There are so many options that are available in designing window treatments in can (and is) a bit overwhelming (that’s where the professionals come in!). The details, shape, fullness, trim, length, fabric, lining, header….the list goes on.
 
     Traditional Home Oct. 03’                                             Tone On Tone Residence Maryland

If privacy or light control is necessary, layer with shutters, blinds, woven or fabric shades.
Window & Wall Fall 06 Susan Gregory

There are limitless options, here are just a few things to consider when designing drapery.

Headers:  these choices go on and on and on…….here are just a few examples that have some pizzazz and uniqueness to them (at least I thought so). 

 
Box Pleated Studded (Phillip Sides) Balloon Style Valance w/ beaded trim (Simply Creative Sewing 2004)

 
Pleated Flat Panel   Grommets (www.autumnhillinteriors.com ) Ballet Slipper pleat (Windows & Walls Fall 06' )

 

Length: This really is personal preference, some of your options are:

Floor length:  

Trouser break:

        Puddle: 

 

From concept to completion.  a couple of custom design installed in clients homes.

 

                           

Start dressing!  You will never desire to go back to bare windows again if you make the investment in proper treatments. Most often you will be amazed at the enormous transformation a room will have once they are installed.

Joni at Cote De Texas has a brilliant, informative (as always) Article on Window Dressings.

Chandeliers……Brightening Up the Bathroom

In the desire to create the mood for a luxurious and romantic style bathroom, what could add more elegance or glamour than a beautiful chandelier over a sensational soaking tub?

This alluring space gives it a feeling that is both classic and modern. Rozanne Jackson Interiors.

Bathrooms that I have done in the past, where some were remodeled completely and others with just a couple of touches here and there to give a fresh look to the space usually included a chandelier over the tub. If the space allows, adding a chandelier can create a huge impact without a lot of cost …

So imagine my dismay……when my bubbles  ……and by that I don’t mean the relaxing ones that surround you while you are soaking in the tub.  I mean the kind that burst when you hear something you don’t want to, when I met with a contractor recently and he was the first one that ever said to me “that it is a really dumb idea and he “prefers NOT to install them over the tub…..ever”.  Thankfully (insert huge sigh of relief),  the disappointment was short lived, for I spoke with another contractor (who was still not overly thrilled about the idea) said there can be an alternative solution (see Safety tips below) in allowing this to be a safer installation.  He did mention that he does still hesitate about the idea because of the thought of how homeowners can be quite irresponsible.  IE: They might “fill the tub, stand in the water and decide to change the light bulbs”. Who does that?!  Scary! No one would be that clueless……would they?  Luckily not the clients I have had the pleasure working with.

At this point, I have to admit my curiosity is now peaked to know I’m not alone to see if anyone else likes the glamorous look and feel of chandeliers over tubs. So……I decide to check my files/images/Google/magazines/blogs to confirm the answer…. and well, of course they do! Actually, there are many that seem too, especially in southern bathrooms, where they are not uncommon due to having fabulous architecture and high ceilings they are blessed with.   Atlanta designer Amy Morris, created a sophisticated sanctuary by adding a 19th-century French mirror and the show-stopping amethyst-embellished French chandelier from Edgar-Reeves.  The chandelier sparkles like fine jewelry.

Many desire their bathrooms to be turned into luxurious rooms where they can recharge, indulge or have a place to escape to. Can you blame others for craving some lavishness in their life by adding an exquisite chandelier to their private retreat?  I certainly can not.

  
The very talented Barry Dixon chooses different styles of fixtures in creating refreshing spaces with unique style.   

This opulent chandelier in a room designed by Nate Berkus makes this space feel like the perfect space to escape to.  

Clean, sleek and sophisticated with elegance all rolled into one. Met Home Sept. 2009 

  Renovation Style Magazine Page 62 Summer 2009  The original vintage chandelier was relocated in this house from the foyer to over the vintage claw and foot tub. Pure Perfection.

The right light fixture, whether it be a chandelier or perhaps a pendant, cannot only add to the style of your room, but it can also make all of your other special details in your bathroom truly stand out.
If you’re thinking about having a chandelier in a bathroom, but don’t want it directly over the tub, consider putting it at one end of the tub, or in front of.  Also, you don’t have to use it in the traditional way, with one large chandelier hanging in the middle of the room you could use two chandeliers over a vanity or one of medium size.

Designer Elaine Griffin Juxtaposing materials and styles adds interest to this sophisticated space.

Safety First
Attention to aesthetics in the bathroom doesn't diminish the importance of safety. Electricity and water are still lethal companions, and nowhere do they mingle more closely than in the bathroom. Always consult a certified electrician before tackling even the simplest lighting project.
   The National Electric Code requires all new outlets to have GFCIs, (ground-fault circuit interrupters).  Even fixtures that are going to be within a certain distance of the tub or shower (usually extends 3ft  horizontally, and 8ft  vertically from the bathtub top rim and the shower stall threshold, though local codes vary) should be "wet" or "shower-location" rated. 
   Put any of the light fixtures located above the bathtub and / or shower stall on a GFCI protected circuit…
   A circuit breaker GFCI (installed in a panel box to give protection to selected circuits) serves a dual purpose - not only will it shut off electricity in the event of a "ground-fault," but it will also trip when a short circuit or an over-load occurs.

So……we ask ourselves…….
Would you be willing to break the rules (if there are any) to create your enchanting retreat?

Inspiration

Inspiration is all around us, everywhere we go, everywhere we look, the trick is opening your eyes and your mind to see it all, embrace it, and enjoy.

Here are a  few things in my travels that I took photographs of, whether for the beauty, the texture, the color, the history, the meaning….or, ok, maybe because I enjoyed the moment and wanted to capture it.  All in their unique way, they were inspiring to me, for reasons maybe understood, and for other’s maybe not a clue :)

    I could have stared at this guy all day, one of a pair, he was was simply breathtaking. These bronze lions stand guard on Michigan Avenue at the Chicago Art Institute by animal sculptor Edward Kerneys and unveiled in May of 1894.         A an amazing glass bottle for wine (or some sort of booze) displayed at the Chicago Art Institute at the exhibit: A Case for Wine: From King Tut to Today

A lonely dangling leaf on a path during a glorious walk through Seashore State Park in Virginia Beach. 

While driving around the Eastern Shore of Virginia in and around the back roads of Cape Charles, I was struck (as was my sister who was with me at the time and “gets” the I gotta take a picture of odd things moment) by this run down house. The old place had so much character, and the stories those walls must hold that they could share must truly be a treat to hear. There was a gentle breeze blowing the curtain in the wind as if it wanted to fly away. It truly was an amazing sight to behold. 

   One of my favorite places to visit is my Mom’s farm located in Lovingston Virginia in Nelson County. It is one of the most beautiful relaxing places to be, and of course always a treat to spend time with the family. 

 

 

 

No words necessary for this last one. Whenever I see the sight of the American flag (especially when the soft light of the setting sun sets it a glow) and how much it represents.  Our country, our freedom, and how truly blessed we all are, I admit I get emotional. God Bless America!!

May you find yourself surrounded by beauty today and everyday.

xo

Southern Accents no more…….say it isn’t so!

It’s devastating news, Southern Accents September/October 2009 is their last issue! 

Southern Progress’ parent company, Time Inc., announced Thursday, August 6, 2009 that it will close the Birmingham publisher’s Southern Accents magazine.

Southern Accents, a luxury southern lifestyle title has been around for 32 years featuring homes and gardens, entertaining, travel, arts and antiques.  They will be sorely missed.

The magazine published six times a year and had a circulation of around 400,000.

Southern Accents’ closure follows a line of other Southern Progress products to close in the last year as the publisher struggles with lower advertising revenue and sales.

Sadly other magazines  such as Domino, Cottage Living, Country Home and O at Home have folded since November 2007, when Condé Nast shocked many in the industry by shuttering another of its home magazines, the 106-year-old House & Garden

SouthernAccents.com will continue to operate. Not quite the same…….but is at least something.

Let us hope that there will be no more upsets and that all the other home magazines prosper so they may continue to bring their readers enjoyment with each issue.

Which is your favorite home magazine that you would be disheartened to see no longer published?