Hate the Lighting in Your Rental? Try These Bright Ideas
Find easy fixes and product ideas to help give your rental that perfect glow.
If turning on the lights in your home makes you look like you’ve been pulling an all-nighter, you've come to the right place. While your options are definitely more limited when dealing with the rules of a rental, there are still some easy fixes you can make to help give your space that perfect glow. I consulted my sister, Robyn, who happens to be a lighting designer at HLB Lighting, for all her best tips and tricks. (That's what sisters are for, right?)
Make the Most of Floor and Table Lamps
This seems like an obvious one, but it truly is the easiest way to transform your space while still making sure you get your security deposit back. Lamps also let you truly flex your design muscles as the style, color and shade choices are virtually endless. Try putting a lamp in an unexpected spot, like your kitchen or bathroom, for even more impact.
Our Product Pick: This arc floor lamp would work for a variety of design styles.
Yes, You Can Use Sconces
Choose sconces with a standard cord and plug that require no drilling or rewiring. If you want to hide the cord, you can use some wire mold, then paint it the same color as your walls. Or go for a more industrial look and just leave the cord as is.
Our Product Pick: This double-fixture black sconce will pair well with most every design style.
Hang Pendants and Chandeliers
As with the sconces, you have cord-and-plug options for pendants and chandeliers, as well. These allow you to replace the builder-grade lighting you might have with chic, new fixtures. Just make sure to keep your old light fixtures so that you can put them back before you move. If you find that you have discoloration on your ceiling that needs to be covered, try a ceiling medallion.
This handcrafted boho-style bamboo hanging light fixture comes with a dimmable Edison bulb and an attractive twine-covered cord.
This 22-foot hanging fixture is perfect for over a dining table or kitchen island. No need to hardwire this fixture, simply hang and plug it in.
This sleek, modern chandelier is a great way to imbue your space with personality and style. Hang this six-light fixture in your office, studio or home to instantly upgrade your decor. Available in a variety of finishes.
Color Cord Company
Flos
Our Product Pick(s): Head to Color Cord Company for mix-and-match varieties of fabric wire, cord sets, shades, bulbs and fixtures. It's a wonderland for DIYers. For an option that's a little sleeker, check out Flos' string lights (designed by Michael Anastassiades).
Are You Using the Right Bulbs?
Once you have your lighting figured out, you need to make sure you have the right light bulbs. Stick with LED lights, and choose bulbs with a color temperature of 2700k. This will give you that warm light that flatters everyone.
Our Product Pick: This 6-pack of dimmable LED bulbs will get you started.
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