Bright ideas 2012 for Weekend Bathroom Refreshes

The smallest room in the house shouldn't fall short on style. Take your bathroom from outdated to up-to-date in just two days with these makeover ideas.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdlVzSij6yBRcsSvkjaFIcDFWpSuqt0B4guYkMsvRUuwhqoHdA0JpiQaLUa3B0u2bZE9KDIILtQ84QAnOrDL6xhrSgOTD5799BR-mfNnFUDGQN8NDW_XbWIzENMIamtStdG2loQEuK/s1600/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdlVzSij6yBRcsSvkjaFIcDFWpSuqt0B4guYkMsvRUuwhqoHdA0JpiQaLUa3B0u2bZE9KDIILtQ84QAnOrDL6xhrSgOTD5799BR-mfNnFUDGQN8NDW_XbWIzENMIamtStdG2loQEuK/s640/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="heading2">Pink and Green Style</span> </b></span></div><br />The pedestal sink, floor and wall tile, and bathtub were all keepers in this 1929 bathroom. The homeowners incorporated modern function with a wall-mount shower and a new faucet reminiscent of the original with cross-handle fixtures. New tile installed behind the faucet nearly matches the old pieces, and pink-and-white wallpaper complements the tones of the existing mosaic floor. Changing the window blinds to shutters and replacing an old light fixture and wall mirror with a new pair in satin nickel add impact with minimal effort. A petite green Windsor chair and a colorful bath mat and towels complete the look.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifkZk7aET1GUBOWo_U8BySD8QGhtBt8o5RjW58SQTgcMx7XOHYt2B4zuRYwwRsi7h9QMw0xT0ksSaBnaTzTMdA2j6Agr2tzGMuGZyIdqbSMu4fmEA6B0xazVplBHyPKJ5bCAR3HH7E/s1600/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifkZk7aET1GUBOWo_U8BySD8QGhtBt8o5RjW58SQTgcMx7XOHYt2B4zuRYwwRsi7h9QMw0xT0ksSaBnaTzTMdA2j6Agr2tzGMuGZyIdqbSMu4fmEA6B0xazVplBHyPKJ5bCAR3HH7E/s640/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b> <span class="heading2">Charming Country Bathroom</span> </b></span></div><br />This bathroom gets a fresh farmhouse look from, a new pedestal sink, open storage shelves, sunny yellow accents, and solid-surfacing panels that resemble beaded-board wainscoting. The new pedestal sink with a wide rim opens up floor space, while a vintage-style recessed medicine cabinet provides storage.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOWU5qy3fP1OpwVWmpj_4nq8z7D__SQ9_aJUWq7WTxJBK-aa1mPbx7fWhQdhuWFodQlIbzJIH5AvcSwh2ODcPn2o9jjf0y8dxlz0ASVonb8nHBo9iJ5IYBR66ONvL4ze13f8j3V53/s1600/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOWU5qy3fP1OpwVWmpj_4nq8z7D__SQ9_aJUWq7WTxJBK-aa1mPbx7fWhQdhuWFodQlIbzJIH5AvcSwh2ODcPn2o9jjf0y8dxlz0ASVonb8nHBo9iJ5IYBR66ONvL4ze13f8j3V53/s640/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="heading2">Clever Fabric Uses</span></b></span></div><br />Multiple shower curtains hung on a curved rod protect the wall and window behind the bathtub and shower area. White subway tile picks up in the shower stall where the beaded board look-alike ends. Repurposed fabric softens the space. The shower curtains are actually window panels outfitted with grommets. The cafe curtains were fashioned using tea towels, a curtain rod, and clip rings. With no room for a traditional towel bar, a double hook with glass finials stands in next to the shower.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiace9TR1f2cBjuu-BZ_Ufig6AEhGhrGPoRfV7RhF3Eqm-ewxUkmvs3ugWlCtdmfzVPMNO3M9K7O63ihCdSWJFnpPcyPl8HSkB9EjJ_EdVap2S2Q0imk4nJnxztZCTFqy7fP9UPvz1f/s1600/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiace9TR1f2cBjuu-BZ_Ufig6AEhGhrGPoRfV7RhF3Eqm-ewxUkmvs3ugWlCtdmfzVPMNO3M9K7O63ihCdSWJFnpPcyPl8HSkB9EjJ_EdVap2S2Q0imk4nJnxztZCTFqy7fP9UPvz1f/s640/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="heading2">Savvy Storage</span></b></span></div>Metal pots and bowls hold toiletries. These clever storage solutions add country charm to the bathroom.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIKHReGwEY7n7hXquBo-i3vPlqR9jwZqZnVCsKIqF0ClMh8W8dFRK4N6BjlVhGA_q0RLu_CiVgCXC-DiINTXJ12Y4IraMOTK9hyD9z9GcyPY0WYKlO98wJcZ7kwfMyjdbgbSGPPhfW/s1600/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIKHReGwEY7n7hXquBo-i3vPlqR9jwZqZnVCsKIqF0ClMh8W8dFRK4N6BjlVhGA_q0RLu_CiVgCXC-DiINTXJ12Y4IraMOTK9hyD9z9GcyPY0WYKlO98wJcZ7kwfMyjdbgbSGPPhfW/s640/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="heading2">Bright White Vanity</span></b></span></div><br />Updated to coordinate with the tub and toilet, the old oak vanity now looks more like a sophisticated dresser thanks to a few coats of white paint. A new countertop, sink, faucet, and hardware add to the makeover. Above the vanity are a pair of brushed nickel sconces and a medicine cabinet. On the wall, beach scenes bring together all the colors in the bathroom.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvxTNy0ark0EgTNIcBkNP9lbL6E574jugli1tSH8i8Z7_JvgjjRMtsTI_xLo4j33nj0pO2gO0hgHTcNn4N3WAU-q5wcaK37qY-QyNwqM1sFY4jcj1akIDK0DPMhUC2S2vMC7bqO-5/s1600/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvxTNy0ark0EgTNIcBkNP9lbL6E574jugli1tSH8i8Z7_JvgjjRMtsTI_xLo4j33nj0pO2gO0hgHTcNn4N3WAU-q5wcaK37qY-QyNwqM1sFY4jcj1akIDK0DPMhUC2S2vMC7bqO-5/s640/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-6.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="heading2">Versatile Accents</span></b></span></div><br />A wooden stool with a woven top serves many functions in this bathroom. It adds texture and plays off the room's beach-theme. It also offers a spot to place towels for easy access from the bathtub and a place to sit. In a small space, it's important to choose versatile pieces.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7SDESqsHyp5AqFbj_jwzdSst6YA8RwzI55Hk2fk8xafjhqJkJMqiLL3pm1eZK_yzVWg_6PRLYchgadE7tQ0KhN9FUcMsbBN0yU8PmCJbDLRV5xVJusKq1VmCIQd4K9lV5o7GwUPN/s1600/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn7SDESqsHyp5AqFbj_jwzdSst6YA8RwzI55Hk2fk8xafjhqJkJMqiLL3pm1eZK_yzVWg_6PRLYchgadE7tQ0KhN9FUcMsbBN0yU8PmCJbDLRV5xVJusKq1VmCIQd4K9lV5o7GwUPN/s640/ideas-Weekend-Bathroom-Refreshes-2012-7.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="color: orange; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="heading2">Beachy Bathroom Oasis</span></b></span></div><br />The first step in the bathroom's transformation was painting the walls a watery blue. Next, serene fabric choices, such as the cream-color cotton window shade and striped shower curtains, tie together the colors of the tiles and walls. A wooden coatrack adds storage by providing a handy spot to hang towels and robes. These elements work together to highlight the original claw-foot bathtub.

Bright ideas 2012 for Weekend Bathroom Refreshes

The smallest room in the house shouldn't fall short on style. Take your bathroom from outdated to up-to-date in just two days with these...

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2014 Bright Ideas for Kitchen Lighting

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Often the difference between a utilitarian kitchen and one that's the heart of the home is well planned lighting. Top experts share what's gorgeous and trendy in luxury kitchen lighting.<br /><b><br /></b><b><span style="color: orange;"><i>By : Melissa Macron from HGTV</i></span></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjqpWwQq3lcx6tvVKa4zRq7OBrluibZDziuCoc8WTjQRFhXq5MOx8i4TZ8AD44NCKVWw-l9YvpN-io2h2Vgqf6dqha4xmXlpa2QAohLRcSUrGRg40mgAKyVXYhDz7A5E_TkDPDltwHvs/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjqpWwQq3lcx6tvVKa4zRq7OBrluibZDziuCoc8WTjQRFhXq5MOx8i4TZ8AD44NCKVWw-l9YvpN-io2h2Vgqf6dqha4xmXlpa2QAohLRcSUrGRg40mgAKyVXYhDz7A5E_TkDPDltwHvs/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Pendant Perfection : </b>Most frequently seen over an island workspace, pendant lights are as striking as they are practical. The pair here is "clean, classic and timeless. The brushed nickel finish and clean design of these striking pendants add a 'wow' factor, combining the best of form and function," says Kim Mager, Marketing Director at Hinkley Lighting. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivIh_lTaHrmp30AGbNENfzzSag5IhzNfGr9P8kO-TYiyDnCvdVQ35NBh6FDWdAtlzLWFjEl5KOey2KptPGId5TdDx5KYRRJ79wSbNCOIznX6syk-d64e3XJKRCTWtp_0M_WWg4NDkqmYo/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivIh_lTaHrmp30AGbNENfzzSag5IhzNfGr9P8kO-TYiyDnCvdVQ35NBh6FDWdAtlzLWFjEl5KOey2KptPGId5TdDx5KYRRJ79wSbNCOIznX6syk-d64e3XJKRCTWtp_0M_WWg4NDkqmYo/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Love Those Layers : </b>"Layering light is a technique that is often used in dining rooms or living rooms but, until recently, wasn't utilized in the kitchen," says Mager. "Now kitchens have become the hub of the home, being used for socializing, eating and entertaining, as well as homework stations or home offices."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">"Layering light is the best way to provide task as well as ambient lighting," advises Mager, "striking just the right balance between function and mood." This farmhouse-style kitchen includes a pared-down chandelier and matching sconces to "complete a cohesive, stylish environment where you want to spend time, regardless of whether it's for relaxation or entertaining," according to Mager. Photo courtesy of Hinkley Lighting.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilqQLke4uBFeBt_tEaC75PzU0AIdp52evyEnGZinESYqj6otChhnOjJGwOehTFMRbbk8twES9F2xLqF5jkz3GsA5mTQUWildbOz6Ed58DTS40pYPqTIJYUwMNwEKXhw5ZAJnzpGflHtKY/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilqQLke4uBFeBt_tEaC75PzU0AIdp52evyEnGZinESYqj6otChhnOjJGwOehTFMRbbk8twES9F2xLqF5jkz3GsA5mTQUWildbOz6Ed58DTS40pYPqTIJYUwMNwEKXhw5ZAJnzpGflHtKY/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Create Dimension : </b>"Layered lighting can be used to supplement the intensity of light or to overlap fields of light, creating interesting shadows [and] manipulating the dimension of areas the light is directed toward," explains Serra. "Lighting, when layered, [can add] a wonderful dimension of shadows and color to feature and enhance natural characteristics of woods, stones and metals.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">In many kitchen designs, a focal point is a prominent feature of the space and lighting can immediately focus attention to one or more special areas to guide the eye into the design." Here, recessed lighting, accent lighting, over-counter task lighting and pendants work together for a welcoming, warm result. Photo courtesy of Susan Serra.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-CIisfHxzyc_TvqheOFTIpWaeRUMah5OQw01_XuIWuIZ-o2vx49bMiiKM9xOdEj2fbzTN8w99UqHfgYTmlyrJDXMrAvoxudXuUlePl8Ghf9xvkNu4tK0tCpvCdDC4Je88Y8UwEHyzU40/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-CIisfHxzyc_TvqheOFTIpWaeRUMah5OQw01_XuIWuIZ-o2vx49bMiiKM9xOdEj2fbzTN8w99UqHfgYTmlyrJDXMrAvoxudXuUlePl8Ghf9xvkNu4tK0tCpvCdDC4Je88Y8UwEHyzU40/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Keeping It Together : </b>"Upscale kitchen lighting must be beautifully designed. Its form and proportion should be scaled properly to the space. The size of a fixture should not be too small, especially over a table, as luxury often is communicated by size," recommends Serra. "The style of a lighting fixture should complement the decor of the kitchen and surrounding rooms. It should also relate, but does not have to match, the finish of other fixtures," she adds. Here, the clean, warm lines of this kitchen are echoed in the mission-style pendants and matching fixture above the window. Photo courtesy of Susan Serra.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwq3NwMvSQANsEDuHoXPPZSXb22JAVrzNdK3EBB5atdHECJjQTCSFJ0efy4K6WZrj1mFJElL8PETqi4UHrWUCgdqpCdChOJI9v5jkbMqB0P9s-6I1cX6_YE-VbHjivXaI278vUoAXQNnI/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwq3NwMvSQANsEDuHoXPPZSXb22JAVrzNdK3EBB5atdHECJjQTCSFJ0efy4K6WZrj1mFJElL8PETqi4UHrWUCgdqpCdChOJI9v5jkbMqB0P9s-6I1cX6_YE-VbHjivXaI278vUoAXQNnI/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Outside the Box : </b>When it comes choosing light fixtures for a dream kitchen, some "rules" are made to be broken. "I do believe that any style of lighting has a place in the kitchen," Serra says, "whether in a fabulous breakfast room or in the center of a kitchen work area."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> "These contemporary pendants are actually made for outdoor use," reveals Mager, "but they are so modern and chic, they look just as fabulous inside. The seedy glass and minimalist, stem-hung design adds an urban edge while providing excellent task lighting that reduces eye strain while preparing a meal or doing homework at a kitchen island." Photo courtesy of Hinkley Lighting.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqGvsBr6cZqQcHirc9mgpxvsK5w2kUP7_V1NxdGzBg-IGL1APlhcUw3YwxzY0p6a6pNHF2x0NTxmIdW67Z0tnhFZVlVMRQ0gROgRBFfSPjmaqaqvoVv5K-tKSMrhG7k-AjnU3Ne3mr4Bg/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqGvsBr6cZqQcHirc9mgpxvsK5w2kUP7_V1NxdGzBg-IGL1APlhcUw3YwxzY0p6a6pNHF2x0NTxmIdW67Z0tnhFZVlVMRQ0gROgRBFfSPjmaqaqvoVv5K-tKSMrhG7k-AjnU3Ne3mr4Bg/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-6.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Totally On-Trend : </b>The trendiest fixtures today express strong visual design statements. "Lighting that makes a statement is now," enthuses Serra. "Oversized fixtures [make for a] bold entrance into the kitchen. Simple shapes, often with heavy textures, vintage styles and Edison-style bulbs are all saying, ‘Look at me!'" Mager shares, "If you want to update your kitchen lighting, think about adding one of the hottest trends in lighting design: a linear chandelier. Not only will it provide more light, it adds a dramatic and stylish focal point to the room, immediately upgrading the overall design and elegance of the room." Photo courtesy of Hinkley Lighting.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOERCL2Tw3esGEC89rxEccijscLWSfs_bUAIrnfcx2R1gfkbreIF02TQ8C_dz75oLYa-MSgT3OiGnjjbuoKsf0r9mAPPLUPJvGKkKBicGQ4kLBYWFfnLoUxI12qjTbfGtKpGPjhVe22qM/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOERCL2Tw3esGEC89rxEccijscLWSfs_bUAIrnfcx2R1gfkbreIF02TQ8C_dz75oLYa-MSgT3OiGnjjbuoKsf0r9mAPPLUPJvGKkKBicGQ4kLBYWFfnLoUxI12qjTbfGtKpGPjhVe22qM/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-7.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Art of the Matter : </b>"Hand blown glass is popular, as its wonderful imperfections and artisan elements add warmth to any kitchen," says Serra. The gorgeous cobalt glass pendants here add a pop of color and unique appeal to a contemporary setting. "Natural materials in lighting fixtures such as reclaimed wood and distressed metals also add that authentic element we crave. Imperfections are desired and coveted in context, of course!" Serra says.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> A side note on pendant fixtures, Serra adds, "I love layered pendant lighting groupings of pendants set at different heights, creating a singular form. I also like multiple pendants placed close together, say, four to six across an island. It is simple yet makes a strong design statement." Photo courtesy of Susan Serra.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKg_qVJOF_jlnmfeyNplPKcqPdS12jhXtflnGfBlxRj9WJulpv6rlHczswJfL7w540aS9ffjUYFictUzrRX_oOEHjR6yg9HIYQusSwFTQWySBKO7sojfFbtyqoBjLhDby4lVGjI3Gnah0/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKg_qVJOF_jlnmfeyNplPKcqPdS12jhXtflnGfBlxRj9WJulpv6rlHczswJfL7w540aS9ffjUYFictUzrRX_oOEHjR6yg9HIYQusSwFTQWySBKO7sojfFbtyqoBjLhDby4lVGjI3Gnah0/s1600/2014-Bright-Ideas-Kitchen-Lighting-8.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Strike Your Fancy : </b>According the Serra, the dreamiest, most upscale kitchens today are likely to feature some distinguishing elements: "Innovative designs, first and foremost, will clearly differentiate truly fabulous lighting from the rest," she says. "Quality materials with quality finishes further differentiate the upscale from the ordinary. In addition, it is often the details the small crystal ball, nickel chain, hand blown glass, luxury fabric, reclaimed wood that clearly communicates quality as well as authenticity. Chandeliers featuring waterfalls of crystals, pieces of luxury metals, feathers and fabric add both strong texture and luxury to a room. Here clean, modern pendants light the island, while a classic crystal chandelier graces the dining area. Photo courtesy of Susan Serra.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>

2014 Bright Ideas for Kitchen Lighting

Often the difference between a utilitarian kitchen and one that's the heart of the home is well planned lighting. Top experts share what...

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