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Let there be light

As we usher in a new year, there’s no better time to brighten your home with thoughtful lighting choices. Beverly Serral, founder of Beverly Serral Properties, BESTNEST Vacation Rentals and Beverly Serral Designs, shares her expert tips to ensure every space in your home shines with purpose and style. Let her advice inspire you to create a home that’s not only well-lit but also full of warmth and joy in the year ahead.

Switch it up

In this heart of the home, lighting is both functional and aesthetic. Under-cabinet lighting is a must-have, whether you choose halogen, LED, tape lighting or a combination. Extend this design to the tops of cabinets for a dreamy, ambient glow. Convenience is key: place all these lights on a single, well-placed switch. For ultimate versatility, install separate switches for pendants, task lighting and ceiling cans, and add dimmers to every one. This allows for customized lighting for any mood or task.

Glow like a pro

Good lighting isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Overhead lighting has its place, but proper face lighting is essential for grooming and makeup application. Beverly suggests replacing the standard over-the-mirror fixture with sconces that frame the face beautifully. Each sconce should emit the equivalent of at least 100 watts, and dimmers are non-negotiable for adjusting brightness. Want to steal a five-star hotel trick? Install a lighted magnifying makeup mirror on its own dedicated circuit. For late-night trips, motion-sensor under-vanity lighting provides the perfect glow: not too bright, not too dim, just right.

Set the mood

Lamps are the unsung heroes of cozy spaces. Overhead lighting has its place (don’t forget those dimmers!), but lamps truly set the tone. Beverly advises using a mix of table and floor lamps to create ambiance and provide task lighting for reading or crafts. Plan ahead: when building or renovating, ensure floor outlets are strategically placed to avoid unsightly cords under rugs. Choose large-scale lamps for a dramatic effect, and always use 3-way bulbs where possible for maximum flexibility.

Shine with style

A chandelier is more than just a light fixture; it’s a statement. Embrace bold colors, textures and sizes to make an impact. Pair with a dimmer to adjust for illumination, mood or both. Thoughtful bulb selection enhances the overall effect — choose intentionally.

The Kelvin question 

Lighting temperature makes a difference. Beverly’s favorite? A warm white 2700 Kelvin. This classic choice flatters everyone and every home with its cozy glow. For a slightly brighter feel, 3000 Kelvin offers a soft white option preferred by many lighting professionals. Either way, a warm ambiance makes for a happy home. As Beverly wisely says, “When mama’s happy, well, you know.”