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{ LIGHTING } See the Light Illuminating trends in fixtures for function, style n by Nichole Schell-MacDowell Light with a Plan If you think choosing lighting for a room is as simple as choosing a ceiling fixture, light- ing experts will tell you there’s much more to consider and far too many options out there to settle for just one lighting source in each room. Whether you’re building or remodeling, lighting is an important part of a room. Scott Fell, manager at Home Lighting Center in Idaho Falls, says that all too often people who are remodeling their homes will trade out the carpet or change the paint color, but they don’t consider the update that a new lighting fixture can bring to a room. “If you’ve lived in your home for a num- ber of years, a lot of times you won’t think of changing the light fixtures,” says Fell. “But a light fixture can completely change the feel of a room.” Luckily, change doesn’t have to be expen- sive. Fixtures come in a variety of price points and an even larger variety of options. One of the newest trends is lighting for style, and the availability of lighting options that seem more like accessories is proof of 40 | EAST IDAHO HOME & GARDEN 2010 that trend. “We’re seeing across the board that home builders want to put something more decorative in their homes,” says Peggy Ralls, sales manager at Wolfe Lighting and Accents in Rexburg. The company also has a Chico, Calif. location. “Lighting is a great way to express yourself and make an impression when people come to your home,” says Ralls. Ralls says that pendants, sconces and inverted pendants, also referred to as bowl lights, are popular ways to utilize lighting sources as an accessory. “Bowl lights are great for entry ways or staircases, and they give you a little cleaner look, as opposed to a chandelier,” says Ralls. “Designers are creating some gorgeous large bowls.” Wolfe Lighting and Accents customers are also getting excited about transitional lighting, according to Ralls. Transitional style is a cross between contemporary and traditional styles. The company is also sell- ing rustic fixtures, featuring elements like iron and candle-looking light for people who are building second homes or decorat- ing cabins. The American Lighting Association (ALA) says that lighting in a room should be planned to suit your needs and those of your family. The organization suggests