Part 2: Uplight, UpdateMore ways to add light to a home...
Make a Lamp
Can't find a lamp you love? Make one yourself out of a vase, a basket, a decorative box, or almost any other object. Look for prepackaged kits in home centers and lighting shops. Many lamp stores can also custom-make your creation or will sell you the parts and teach you how to make it yourself. Browse the many Lighting Projects that are posted online.
Bookshelf Lights
There are several possibilities for bringing more light to dark bookcases. Choose from undercabinet fixtures, strip lighting, down lighting, and small lamps placed on shelves. Depending on your choice you'll probably need to drill a few holes in the back of the bookcase so the cords can be routed to the nearest wall outlet.
Photo by Glenna J. Morton, About's Interior Decorating Guide
Convert a Ceiling Fixture
Take down that tired ceiling fixture and install downlights or track lighting that can be directed at walls, artwork, or straight down. This is a great solution for a dark hallway, will add drama to a dining room, and is also terrific in a home office.
Cool Off for Summer
Ceiling fans save on air conditioning and put cool air right where you need it. Though you'll need to brace the ceiling to hold the additional weight of a fan, most homeowners can easily tackle this project. Get a fan with a remote control (or purchase a remote "kit" separately and install it along with the fan), for the ultimate in couch potato cooling luxury.
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