valentine's day Lighten Up!

I have been searching for some lamps and a Dining Room Pendant or Chandelier for my house, so I am a little lighting obsessed at the moment. So it is small wonder that I focus on interesting fixtures in every magazine I come across:

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For example, I was struck by this incredible Sarfatti chandelier from 1952 which is so current, it looks like it could have been designed specifically for this house.

Interior Design Magazine, March 2008, Photo by Jean-Francois Jaussaud

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And this grouping of twelve silver Brand van Egmond broom lights was so whimsical and unique. If you have never visited their website you should do so immediately, if for no other reason than for the very cool Madonna music.

Vacation Homes, February/March 2008, photo by James Silverman

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The three crystal chandelier pieces from Moooi were placed in the 700 square foot reception area of a 12,ooo square foot townhouse in London designed by Rene Dekker of SHH Associates. ( I just have to add that the townhouse belongs to a family with six kids ranging in age from 6 to 27. Yes, that's right. You heard me.........and the design directive was to do a "white" interior....yes, the youngest is six.) Anyway, I digress. The chandeliers are breathtaking, no? SHH is another website that is pretty amazing. Very unique designing going on there.

Vacation Homes, February/March 2008, photo by James Silverman

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Another room from the same townhouse is the first picture from this editorial that really caught my attention. These spherical fixtures come from a German company by the name of Windfall. Made from Swarovski crystals these pendants create a wonderful little solar system. Not to sound repetitive, but this is another "must-see" website. There is much here to capture the imagination.

So, in my search for that "perfect" dining room fixture for myself, I have come across some fixtures that are new this season from companies that really excel at lighting design. I thought I would share:

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New from Bradley-Hughes, a company expanding their empire to the West. For a great expose on the company and it's founder Michelle Bradley, hop on over to Cote de Texas, where Joni has all the scoop. Please meet "Lucille" and "Twiggy", the chandelier and floor lamp that I think are going to be popping up in alot of magazines this year!

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Forest Sepia Hanging Lamp, new from Seascapes Lamps. Bringing the outside in. Check out the new shade pendants on their website.

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I am sometimes stumped when it comes to specifying a ceiling flush mount fixture for a client. There are many out there that are fairly typical or "expected". So I am always pleased when some more unique options come up. These two, new this summer from Circa Lighting, would really add some fun to many an interior.

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Also from Circa Lighting, these are some of the new table lamps due out this summer. I am not sure I can wait that long.

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These are a few of the table lamps I am just loving from Shine Home. Maybe it's just the Spring colors that are drawing me in, or the classic shapes with a twist. Whatever....I just like 'em loads. They may be finding a new home with me.

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I couldn't leave you without reminding you to always check in with Swank Lighting. They always have a flow of wonderful new inventory. "Inventory" doesn't seem quite the right word......hmm.... "treasures" seems more appropriate.

Lighting can make or break a room. Ambient, task, or decorative, it pays to give it the attention it deserves. Maybe more importantly, let it brighten your day...and night.