Let There Be (Better) Light

By November, we’re turning on the lights a whole lot earlier in the day. So here’s a little decorating tip: take a look at your lightbulbs!

Seriously, lightbulbs have come a long way. You can buy LED bulbs that let you change the brightness and even the color of the light, all without changing the bulb. Want a soft, warm glow in the evening? Done. Need brighter light to read a book or see what you’re doing in the kitchen? Change the setting. Some even let you make adjustments right from your phone.

A few things to pay attention to when you’re shopping:

• Lumens: This is how brightness is measured. More lumens mean more light. A reading lamp may need more than a little accent lamp on a bookshelf.
• Color temperature: This is what gives light its warm or cool appearance. Look for 2700K for that soft, warm glow that’s especially nice in living rooms and bedrooms. Higher numbers give you a whiter, cooler light.
• Dimmers: Some bulbs work with a dimmer switch, while others have adjustable brightness built right in. Just make sure the bulb and switch are compatible.

And don’t underestimate the difference a few lamps can make. Light up a dark corner, add a lamp beside your favorite chair or put a small one on a bookshelf. A room with a little light coming from different places feels much more inviting than one big overhead light doing all the work.

The takeaway? Before you decide a room needs a decorating overhaul, try changing the lighting. You may be surprised what a few different bulbs can do. And who knew there was so much to know about a lightbulb?