106 HOME DESIGN & DECOR CHARLOTTE | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019T
he cascading fixture in the foyer welcomes guests into
your home. That organic chandelier induces lively dinner
conversation. Those sleek but subtle spotlights transform
your fireplace or artwork into the focal point you imagined. The
master bath’s well-placed ceiling lights and wall sconces provide
not only a healthy dose of style but also the perfect amount of
illumination to help you “face” your day.
Of course, we’re talking about lighting, where form and
function meet style and sophistication in a single element that
can make or break the entire home design.
“Unfortunately, lighting is often undervalued by builders and
designers, being the last detail considered when, quite frankly, itis the first thing people notice when they walk into your home,”
Liza Branch says, owner of Modern Lighting Design Store.
Lighting is a crucial building block in home design, perform-
ing a host of important duties such as providing illumination,
creating ambiance, personalizing the decor, and accenting other
decorative or architectural features. Because lighting does so
much heavy lifting, the selection of fixtures shouldn’t be left to
last-minute decisions but approached with careful consideration,
keeping the functionality and the homeowner’s tastes at the fore-
front. “Don’t wait until you’ve blown your budget on flooring,
bathroom tile, and plumbing fixtures to think about your lights,”
Branch says.DECORATING Featured Advertiser EditorialMake lighting a priority in your home design.
Written by Brandy Woods SnowLET YOUR LIGHT SHINE
Architect: Mara Ludwig Design, LLCCLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: KYO NAM; COURTESY OF HUDSON VALLEY LIGHTING