Bathroom Lighting Tips

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Designers Share Expert Tips on Bathroom Lighting

- When it comes to bathroom decor, the brightest ideas depend on light, or more appropriately, lights. Today, a well-lit bathroom depends on a savvy lighting mix.

"Good lighting is essential for people to see themselves in a complimentary light," says Todd Phillips, president of lighting manufacturer Quoizel. "Whether we are putting on makeup or combing our hair, we want a positive view of ourselves, which can only be accomplished by using the right light source."

Like the rest of the house, the bathroom reflects consumer's changing lifestyles. More spacious and multifunctional, these once utilitarian water closets have become glamour havens -- private retreats designed for relaxation, escape and self-indulgence.

"The bathroom is the part of the house with the densest assortment of materials and finishes," says Dan Blitzer, Manhattan, N.Y.-based continuing educator for the American Lighting Association. "You have wall tile, floor tile, shower tile, faucet hardware, towel bars, wallpaper and paint all in a space often smaller than 100 square feet."

Whether built new or recently remodeled, today's more complex bathrooms demand intricate lighting solutions. Task lighting must be bright enough to do its job, but work well with indirect accent lighting designed to soften the room's ambience by providing a warm glow. Lighting fixtures and finishes must complement, rather than compete with plumbing accessories, tile, paint and wallpaper.

Think of lighting the bathroom the same way as creating the perfect ensemble, suggests Blitzer. "You want everything to coordinate so that anyone walking in views the room as a whole. Everything should work together as opposed to supporting one astonishing fixture."

"When we look at the amount of money that people invest in building or renovating bathrooms, a proper lighting plan has the potential to deliver dramatic results, costs only a small fraction of the project budget, and yet it is often lacking or overlooked," said Gary Taylor, president of Living Lighting of Ontario.

The right lighting can make a bathroom much more gracious. "Lighting is an inexpensive way to make the bathroom shine," says Todd Langner, vice president of marketing and development for Cleveland-based Kichler, a lighting manufacturer. "There's a great opportunity to match the finish of the plumbing accessories with the light fixtures. There is a huge array of styles in the market -- from very ornate poly-resin cast products to sleek satin nickel fixtures with opal matte glass in a variety of shapes and sizes."

While fixtures and finishes range in design from sleek and clean to very ornate, contemporary ranks as the top trend in bathroom design. "While contemporary still makes up a very small percentage of home decor nationwide, people seem to feel most comfortable with contemporary bathrooms -- even if it doesn't necessarily represent the overall style throughout their home," says Phillips.

Currently nickel owns the top spot in bathroom finishes, followed closely by chrome and brass. "Chrome and brushed chrome continue as important finishes," says Phillips. "Chrome coordinates best with mirrors, which are essential in any bathroom." While some take a thoroughly modern approach to bathroom lighting, others warm up to other options. "We are seeing the influx of popular home decor materials like iron and vintage glass being used to make a warmer design statement," says Phillips. "This is a greater continuity to what is happening throughout the home at large."

New technology has added options as well. Fiber optics, with its remote light source, can create twinkling star effects when inset into bathroom ceilings. Halogen bulbs with their variety of sizes allow manufacturers to design more ornate light fixtures. Unusual light sources like wall sconces, sky lights, and lamps perched on a table, vanity or bathroom island provide an unexpected touch. Shower lights brighten up enclosed stalls. Reading lamps by the toilet provide more focused light. Single sconces on either side of the mirror remain popular.

To be most effective, begin your bathroom lighting scheme at the vanity with the lights that do the most work. These lights must be bright enough so you can see to shave or apply makeup, yet soft enough to compliment facial features. Fixtures located on each side of the mirror should be set at eye level to be most effective. Theatrical-style lighting stripped along the sides and across the top of the mirror also do a good job.

Bulb selection is as important as choosing and placing the right fixture. For lighting vanity areas, try colored or coated bulbs designed to enhance facial features. Look for bath fixtures that light down so the heat dissipates easier from the sockets and creates a longer life for all bulbs. Recessed or canned lighting, however, is not the most ideal as a bathroom's main or only lighting source as it casts shadows across the face.

"When remodeling or building a bathroom, don't be convinced that recessed lighting alone will be adequate," says Langner. "You won't be happy unless you have other light sources to fill in the gaps. It's important to layer the light."

Layers of light also reduce glare, important to our aging population. "As the eye ages, glare becomes a bigger problem," says Blitzer. "The eye needs more light to see well as the aging eye lens yellows and thickens. By 55 years old, you need twice as much light to see as you did when you were 20."

To further reduce glare, opt for frosted white bulbs, rather than clear models and avoid fixtures with exposed bulbs.

Check with local building inspectors about electrical codes before installing any new lighting. Fixtures used in wet areas must be approved for such a specific use. "Make sure that your lamps are UL rated for damp locations insuring safety," says Phillips.

Sometimes there are restrictions on the placement of various types of lighting fixtures. Portable lamps, for example, should not be put near a sink or tub because of the possibility that it might fall into the water and electrocute you.

Finally, don't worry about having too much light, note the experts. "You can never have too much light in the bathroom," says Phillips. "It's easy to install a dimmer control to reduce the amount of light to create a mood."

For more information or to find a lighting showroom near you, call toll free (800) BRIGHT IDEAS or visit us on the World Wide Web at www.americanlightingassoc.com.

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Top Kitchen Remodeling Projects 2002

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Top Kitchen Remodeling Projects For 2002

Hot Trends Mean Cool Products for Your Kitchen

-- Now that you've cleared your schedule for the weekend -- you're ready to clean out the garage, scrub the tub and tile, and seal the deck. But as hard as you try to give your home a fresh, new look for the warmer months, there is still one room that is painfully behind the times: your kitchen. As the main gathering place in the household, the kitchen is where you entertain guests, cook the family meals and help the kids do homework. It is truly the hearth of the home and the area that everyone visiting your house sees.

Contemplating a kitchen update? You're not alone. According to "Kitchen & Bath Business" magazine, more than 4 million homeowners plan to remodel their kitchens this year-- a 7.1 percent increase over last year.

So what is on every consumer's wish list to make their dream kitchen a reality? "Kitchen & Bath Design News" magazine asked this question of 300 kitchen dealers, designers and remodelers. Of those surveyed, 78.2 percent said their clients want an updated appearance and new features, and 64.7 percent wanted a more efficient layout. Other top responses included increased storage space, new cabinets, unique designs and new appliances.

With consumers expected to spend a record $42.7 billion in 2002 for kitchen remodeling, what are the "hottest" trends and the "coolest" products this spring? Wendy Silverstein, former editor of "HomeStyle Kitchen & Bath" magazine, says that while most Americans still feel comfortable with pale woods, granite tops and stainless steel, European decor trends are infusing new materials and colors into kitchen design.

"Europeans are moving to full walls of kitchen cabinetry that mix and match walnut wood with bright lacquers. These cabinets offer plenty of display areas and sliding doors, all influenced by the look of furniture," says Silverstein. "Here in the United States, manufacturers are putting a lot of thought into how people use their kitchens with innovative new products such as ovens that can cool and sinks that double as dishwashers. Customization is also big for Americans, from dishwashers that offer movable racks to sinks that have plenty of add-on gadget choices. Overall, people are investing in their kitchens no matter what the size."

New Countertops

The Kitchen & Bath Design News survey revealed that the top priority on consumers' kitchen upgrade wish lists was a more expensive countertop material such as granite. Granite offers the benefit of minimal maintenance and will retain its good looks for years to come. It is the most durable and least porous of all stones and offers a rich look in the kitchen. Plus, each piece of cut granite is unique. Because remodeling with granite for all countertop surfaces can get costly, experts advise that mixing and matching materials is becoming popular. A homeowner might use granite solely on an island countertop to serve as a focal point.

A new countertop material coming onto the scene in 2002 is concrete. Comparable in price to granite, concrete opens up the possibility of having customized colors mixed into the countertop. Tiles can be added to the concrete to create a one-of-a-kind look.

Solid surface countertops are also at the top of consumers' most-requested list. Because of their smooth and non-porous texture, solid surfaces will not promote the growth of bacteria or mold -- an important feature when working with raw meats, vegetables and other food products. Available in a wide array of colors, solid surfaces offer seamless construction and the option of an integral sink. Nicks, scratches and burns can be buffed out if necessary. Corian, Surrell and Avonite are common trade names of solid surface countertops.

Last, but certainly not least, is tile. Decorative, hand-painted tiles can be used for trim and backsplash areas; and ceramic, porcelain or quarry tile for main countertop areas can be added to create a distinctive or highly personalized look.

Faucets

Another "must-have" kitchen upgrade is a new faucet. "One of the easiest and most inexpensive changes a homeowner can make to a kitchen is installing a new faucet," said Kathleen Yates, Moen Group product manager, kitchen. "Today's faucets have so much functionality that they make quick work out of kitchen tasks. In addition, these faucets add a sense of style to the kitchen."

For example, Yates notes that Moen offers pullout faucets that can do everything from fill large pots to clean the remote corners of the kitchen sink. And, with so many finish options, these faucets can be the centerpiece of the kitchen. Take for instance the Colonnade faucet from Moen, which offers a classic, traditional look and is available in one of the hottest finishes for 2002 -- copper -- to complement the trend in cookware and other kitchen accents. Or, for those envisioning a more modern look in the kitchen, Moen's Salora pullout has a sleek and contemporary look accentuated by a brushed stainless steel finish to match the latest looks in kitchen appliances.

For those concerned about the quality of their water for drinking or cooking, there are now many options that provide bottle-quality water right from the kitchen tap. The PureTouch filtering faucet or the AquaSuite filtered water dispenser offer easy ways to get filtered water at the touch of a button. Their stylish looks are much more attractive than clunky faucet attachments, and are far more convenient than pitchers in constant need of refilling.

Cabinets

Not long ago, homeowners thought their kitchens were well equipped if they had built-in and having to live your life within the confines of a dorm room or small apartment.

Many college students are used to living in a home with a large den, a spacious kitchen and a bedroom with tons of closet space. When they head off to school, they'll need to adapt to a new living style and embrace the idea of combining many rooms into just one or two small spaces.

IKEA, the leading home furnishings retailer, offers simple solutions and ideas about how college students, even without all of the rooms that they may be accustomed to, can still feel at home in their college dorm, off-campus housing or apartment.

The Den

With limited space, an easy way to duplicate the comfort and relaxation of a den is with plenty of pillows. Big and small pillows in different colors and textures are a fun and comfortable way for friends to sprawl out and get cozy while hanging out. When not in use, the pillows can be piled up in a corner of the room or even on a bed so another function can take center stage.

The Bedroom

It's always a bonus when it's possible to get two uses out of one item. A futon or sofa bed is the most functional furnishing for any college student, especially in a small living environment. When it's time to go to bed, the sofa opens up, converting the room from living room to bedroom. And visiting guests will appreciate not having to sleep on the floor.

The Kitchen

Even though most college students don't cook that often -- unless you consider macaroni and cheese a delicacy -- it's still important to have an area in your space that can serve as a kitchen. Storage bins can be used for canned and non-perishable goods and the top surface to stack plates, silverware or even a small microwave. Use wall space to hang pots and pans out of the way and a shelf for paper goods, mugs and other kitchen items that can cause clutter. Also, using a half table that can be placed flush against a wall is an ideal space saver with multiple functions including eating, studying and even a late night poker game.

The Closet

It may be a "culture shock" for some who are used to lots of closets at home and now have to either share one with a roommate or squeeze everything they own into a closet one tenth the size of their old one. To ensure that the closet isn't overflowing into your living space, invest in clear storage boxes so items can be easily identified; covered bins to hide away private articles you may not want exhibited to the world; and stacking containers to make the closet seem double the size and hold twice as much.

Small space living in a dorm or apartment can be fun and stylish. Students can still maintain the comforts of home while away at college, even if there are fewer rooms and amenities. For more information, solutions and ideas about how to affordably decorate your home away from home, go to www.ikea-us.com or call 1-800-434-4532. Recent Wood Innovation Ideal for Gardens

- Wood is a natural in garden construction, but what type of wood is best for your garden?

Whether building retaining walls on a sloped site, improving soil with raised beds or simply defining the edge of a planted area, wood has been a favorite construction material for residential gardens. Wood is readily available, easily cut and fastened with common tools, and blends with natural settings.

For wood structures that will endure in a backyard, the usual choice is pressure-treated wood. Its chemical protection helps this lumber resist termite and rot damage for decades.

A recent innovation in wood preservation provides the same longevity as traditional treated wood but uses a different preservative chemical. Although there have been no reports of adverse effects from the traditional treatment, known as CCA, some people have questioned its suitability in close proximity to food plants.

This alternative type of preserved lumber is called Wolmanized Natural Select wood. Developed in Europe and now in use on four continents, the preservative is copper-based with an organic fungicide for supplementary protection. It was introduced in the United States in 2001.

Natural Select wood is produced with two levels of protection -- above ground or ground contact -- so it can be used for everything from fence pickets and landscape timbers to tomato stakes and the walls of raised beds. Other uses include outdoor play structures, decks and gazebos.

This lumber was installed in late 2001 at the Woodlawn EcoScape garden in Birmingham, Ala. This project, which has involved the Southern Environmental Center of Birmingham Southern College along with local garden clubs and various other organizations, incorporates more than 2000 linear feet of Natural Select timbers, used mainly for the construction of raised beds. Members of the Woodlawn neighborhood are tending the gardens, and much of the produce grown there is going to a community kitchen sponsored by the adjacent church.

A growing number of lumber dealers across the country keep the product in stock, and many dealers will place orders for their customers upon request.

Its appearance is much like the slightly greenish color of traditional treated wood and it turns a honey brown color before eventually fading to gray after extended exposure to sunlight. As with other types of treated wood, it can be stained or painted. No maintenance is needed to retain its termite and rot resistance, but it should be coated periodically with water repellent to minimize normal cracking and warping caused by moisture.

Gardeners now have another choice for structures they want to blend with natural surroundings yet endure outdoor conditions for years. A Bathroom Built For Two

Most of us can imagine our own glorious bathroom if space and cost were no object. We'd have our own private sanctuary where we could escape from the rest of the harried world. In reality, however, many of us have a small bathroom that we share with a spouse or other family members. Nothing shatters the dream of respite faster than toothpaste globs at the bottom of the sink, crusty medicine cabinets and collections of scummy shampoo bottles.

Creating a comfortable, functional bath that accommodates two isn't as difficult as you might think. All it takes is some smart planning and a little creativity. Here are some tips for designing or remodeling your shared bathroom space to make it work for both of you. While some of these ideas require building or remodeling, which often involves significant time and expense, others can be implemented easily and inexpensively.

Double Up

The key to keeping the peace in a shared bathroom is to offer each user individual space and features whenever possible. If space and budget permit, double up on the following:

* Sinks -- Installing two sinks is a simple way to keep the peace, allowing you to brush your teeth while your partner shaves. For added comfort, install the sinks at different elevations to accommodate your individual heights. If installing two sinks is not an option, make sure the height of the fixture is comfortable for both of you. Many manufacturers now make sinks and toilets in various heights to meet the needs of different users. American Standard, for example, offers many sinks in their exclusive Right Height design. The sinks are a little taller, so bending over to brush your teeth or wash your face is more comfortable.

* Toiletries -- We all like our brand of shampoo and toothpaste. Don't force a compromise, just buy two of the things you find frustrating to share and make sure you have enough storage space to keep everything tidy. Keep only the items you use daily in the medicine chest and store occasional-use items in the linen closet or bedroom. Compartmentalized plastic caddies make it easy to quickly retrieve these items and transport them to the bath.

* Showerheads -- Add a second showerhead opposite the original to transform a simple shower into a spa experience. A second showerhead adds more rejuvenating steam and can keep you both warm in a shared shower.

Share and Share Alike

Of course, you can't have two of everything in a shared bath. So add some luxuries to make sharing easier and more comfortable.

* Whirlpool à Deux -- Install a whirlpool tub that's big enough for both of you to enjoy...alone or together.

* Multi-media -- Add a built-in stereo with auto settings for both. Separate CDs into your own private collections. Install a television with picture-in-picture so you can both keep an eye your favorite programs while getting ready for the day.

* Refreshers -- Consider installing a small refrigerator to keep juices on hand or wine chilled for a relaxing bath. Also, add a double-carafe coffee maker for brewing both your favorite blends in the morning.

Separate Spaces

If space permits, include separate areas for privacy in a shared bath including:

* Separate rooms for the toilet or bidet to provide privacy while allowing both to use the bathroom at the same time.

* A private steam room or sauna for absolute privacy and relaxation.

Two Styles...One Bathroom

Make sure that both of your tastes are represented in the design and décor of the room.

* Create a board of the colors and fabrics of your design ahead of time so you can both visualize and agree on the direction.

*Compromise on the little things, but make sure that you are both happy with the major features of the room, like fixtures and tile.

Installing Water Garden

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Installing a Water Garden Can Be an Easy, D-I-Y Weekend Project

- Installing a water garden can seem like a monumental task for a homeowner, but it actually can be a fun, do-it-yourself project you can easily tackle on a weekend. It is especially easy if you purchase a kit that includes everything you need.

The first step in creating your water garden is to carefully select the site for your pond in a level area. If you are using a pond kit that operates on a 12-volt power supply, you can locate your pond up to 50 feet away from the system's outdoor power pack.

Outline the desired shape of your pond with a garden hose or a rope. Consult your local pond or water garden club, or a landscaper, as to the recommended size and depth for your area. Also, check for local laws that may regulate the depth of your pond. Some localities require fences around bodies of water at certain depths.

As you plan your water garden, consider the aquatic plants you may want to include in it. These plants can be grown on different levels or "shelves" within your pond. Consult your local garden center for plant varieties and their growing needs.

Using the hose or the rope as your guide, begin digging. Dig from the outside of your pond inward. Level the top edge of the pond by using a carpenter's level on a straight two-by-four placed across the pond. Repeat this process for the width and length of the pond until the perimeter is completely level.

Remove all roots, rocks or other sharp objects that could puncture the pond liner. Line the bottom of the pond with a 1 1/2-inch to 2-inch layer of sand or underlayment to provide a cushioned surface for the liner and to protect it from punctures. Lightly sprinkle the sand with water and tamp it down before installing the liner.

While digging your pond, open the liner fully and drape it across your lawn. As the sun heats it, the liner will become more flexible and will be easier to install. Once you finish digging the pond, drape the liner across the pond, making sure it overlaps equally on all sides.

Contour and smooth the liner to the inside edges and bottom of your pond. Secure the edges with bricks or other heavy objects. Begin filling the pond with water. Water pressure will allow the liner to sink into the pond cavity and contour around the inside edges and plant shelves. As the pond fills with water, pull the edges of the liner up and smooth out any creases around the inside walls of the pond. Some folds are inevitable, but the fewer the better.

Continue filling the pond while you install the remaining pond components. Fill to within 4 inches of the upper edge of the pond.

If using a low-voltage pond kit, mount the power pack near a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outdoor electric outlet. Route the low-voltage cable attached to the bottom of the power pack to your pond site. Place the low-voltage controller next to your pond site. Insert the two wires from the end of the power pack cable into the terminals on the bottom of the low-voltage controller and tighten the screws.

Set the pond pump in the pond, keeping the end of the cord out of the water. Insert the two wires from the end of the pump cord into the low-voltage controller terminals and tighten the screws.

A water garden kit should contain a fountain assembly. If you choose to have a fountain in your water garden, place the control valve from the fountain assembly onto the top outlet of the pump. Hand-tighten the telescoping extender from the assembly onto the control valve and affix the desired spray pattern head to the top of the extender.

Attach the inlet tubing to the side of the control valve that will face the site of the above-ground filter. Route the tubing to the site of the filter.

If you desire underwater lighting, make sure you select a water garden kit that includes it. Set the light in the bottom of your pond or on one of the plant shelves. If you are using a low-voltage water garden kit, insert the two wires from the end of the light cord into the controller terminals and tighten the screws. Weigh down the light base with rocks or pebbles to prevent it from tipping or floating.

Position the pond's biological filter above the edge of your pond where you placed the inlet tubing from the pump. You will need to secure tubing in various locations on the pump. Make sure water will drain completely into the pond.

Trim off the excess liner around the edge of the pond, leaving at least a 12-inch lip.

Before stocking your pond with fish and plants, you must remove the chlorine from the water and allow your biological filter to mature. Your kit should include a bottle of chlorine and chloramine remover. Follow the measurement guidelines and add the correct amount to your pond water after filling it with tap water.

Allow your biological filter to operate for three to four days after filling the pond to build up the healthy bacteria needed to purify your pond water.

Use a floating thermometer to ensure the pond's temperature is at a safe level before adding fish. Generally, most goldfish and koi can survive in temperatures about 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but consult with your fish provider regarding acclimation procedures.

Aquatic plants perform many functions in a pond. Not only do they add to the beauty of your pond, they also help to establish the ecological balance of your pond by keeping water clear, especially if you have fish.

For more information on low-voltage pond kits and installing a water garden, contact Wayne Water Systems at (800) 237-0987 or visit www.waynepumps.com.