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Randall Whitehead, IALD, is a professional lighting designer and author (his seven books include “Lighten Up!”) based in San Francisco.
He has worked on projects worldwide and appeared on the Discovery Channel and HGTV. Visit his Web site for more information on books, upcoming seminars and the latest lighting trends at www.randallwhitehead.com. |
Q: “Randall, what’s the hottest trend in kitchen and bath remodeling?
A: The introduction of attractive energy-efficient lighting—fluorescent and LED sources that have the feel and dimmability of incandescent. People want to be green in their selections; they just don’t want to look green.
Q: How can remodelers keep projects within budget and time constraints?
A: Order non-off-the-shelf products in advance and warehouse them until needed. This keeps the contractor or customer from making substitutions that may be less than ideal to save any last-minute express shipping charges.
Q: What’s a common challenge faced by homeowners in the current economic climate?
A: Things always cost more than we expect. Even if the client doesn’t have the budget for all the decorative fixtures they want, it’s better to run the power for them and install the fixtures down the road as funds become available. Light fixtures can make wonderful birthday and holiday gifts.
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| Today’s hosts entertain more often in the kitchen. Make sure the lighting is inviting, so that you need less alcohol to look good. Photo by Dennis Anderson |
Q: How does architectural lighting influence a remodeling project?
A: Different types of light in a room create a better environment, rather than relying on a single light source or type of fixture. This is called “light layering.” For example, a room filled with just recessed downlights creates a harsh type of illumination that visually ages people. Adding a layer of indirect lighting helps make people look younger. Who doesn’t want that?
Q: How has the homeowner’s conception of the kitchen and bath evolved over the past 10 years?
A: The kitchen has now become the new center for casual entertaining; home-owners want the light to be as flattering here as it is in the living room and dining room. Meanwhile, bathrooms have become private sanctuaries that serve as more than a place to shower and use the WC. They can be a little oasis from the stress of the day.
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