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5 Easy Steps to Create a Modern Minimalist Interior

5 Easy Steps to Create a Modern Minimalist Interior

by ·

With an intentional lack of furniture and decorations, minimalist design can sometimes come off as cold and uncomfortable. Over the past few years, as we’ve spent more time in our homes than ever before, the need for comfort in a home design has been made crystal clear.

Today’s modern minimalism prioritizes simplicity with a decluttered and uncomplicated aesthetic, while also emphasizing the need for comfort in a space. You’ll see more color and accessories than the minimalist interiors of the past had, but they’ll be thoughtfully chosen extras that provide warmth and life to the space without going overboard. 

Whether you’re interested in adopting a minimalist lifestyle or just love the simple yet dramatic design aesthetic, modern minimalism is an achievable aesthetic for just about anyone! 

To help you get started, we broke down the basics of modern minimalist interior design into a handful of easy steps you can use to confidently focus on the right essentials. 

1. Create an Open Floor Plan

Focus on creating as much connected open space as possible. Obviously, taking out walls is the easiest way to create an open floor plan. But if you’re not in a place where you can tear down walls, there are some simple and subtle tricks you can use to make adjoining spaces feel more connected. 

One way to connect spaces in your home is to use the same flooring and wall paint colors for the entire space. This will make rooms look like they belong together, even through a doorway. 

A unique accent, like this minimalist pendant light, grabs your attention through the doorway from across the way, which helps your brain perceive the two spaces as one.

Finally, play around with your furniture placement to maximize your space. In smaller spaces, this often means keeping large furniture close to the walls to keep open pathways throughout but don’t underestimate the power of a simple, low-profile, floating sofa used to define a space.

2. Choose a Small Color Palette

A classic hallmark of minimalist design is a neutral monochromatic color palette, typically in warm grey, white, or beige tones. Contrast is important – add dimension and balance with a mix of darker and lighter shades within your color palette.

If an all-neutral color palette just isn’t your thing, you can still get a modern minimalist look with color – you just need to stick to a small palette. Keep most of the colors you use very light, to increase the feeling of airiness and reflect light best. 

3. Functional Design is Key

It doesn’t matter how pretty a room is, if it’s inconvenient or difficult to use you’re not going to be happy with it. When you’re trying to adopt modern minimalism, understanding how to pare down to only the essentials can be hard. When you’re going through your room, ask yourself:

 “Does this serve a purpose?”   “Do I already have something that serves this purpose?”   “Is there a multipurpose option that will serve this purpose and others?” 

Just remember, there’s no hard and fast rule for what it means to be “functional” – and you don’t need to justify every item you love to keep it in your home. A funky decorative pillow that makes you smile when you see it is serving a purpose (and it’s making your couch more comfortable – so it’s multifunctional!) 

A huge part of functional design is organization. Decluttering for a modern minimalist space involves reducing “visual clutter” too! Things not actively being used should have a home where they can be tucked away until they’re needed. 

Opt for storage options that have doors that will hide the things you’re not using.  When styling open shelving, choose items that match your color palette, leave plenty of open space, and use boxes or baskets to organize and hide loose items.

Don’t be surprised if you get down to the basics and you aren’t in love with what you have left. You’ll likely need to start making smart trades here and there to end up with a set of basics that you love.

4. Add Light – Lots of It

Like most modern design aesthetics, modern minimalism focuses on filling the space with light. Where possible, introduce as much natural light as you can. The light colors on your walls and floors will reflect it – making your room feel open and airy. 

In addition to natural light, a modern minimalist space needs a well-thought-out interior lightscape. Make sure your general ambient light is bright without being harsh, and add extra lighting in dark corners and over workspaces. Hidden lights, like LED strips under a cabinet, are an inexpensive DIY trick with a big payoff! 

Because minimalism is all about doing less with more, it’s okay to be choosy about how you add light to your space – you don’t want to clutter up your home with a floor lamp in every dark spot! When you’re shopping for fixtures, stick to simple shapes that can double as design elements.

5. Finish it Off with Thoughtful Accents

Little pops of color and texture are what take a modern minimalist space from blah to wow. You can do this in a number of ways, but remember to keep it simple. Start with just one color or texture and see how it feels before committing to more. 

When possible, look for ways to upgrade your existing decor rather than adding extra items. Look for functional pieces that you need in your space, but feel a little lackluster, and find a more interesting alternative. Replace an old, overstuffed sofa with a simpler version in a deep color (as long as it’s in your color palette!) or give an old end table new life with a coat of paint.

Pro Tip: If you have a hard time committing to color, consider using houseplants! They introduce a vibrant green color and soft, organic textures, which can balance out a minimalist design quite nicely.

By far, one of the most effective ways to accent a modern minimalist design is with an interesting light fixture. Your room will always need light, so it might as well be an integrated part of the design! 

A stunning ceiling light with a simple shape will stand out as a piece of art against a minimalist backdrop and elevate the entire design of the space. 

Pendant lamps are popular in modern minimalist design because they come in simple shapes with lots of finish options, so it’s easy to find something that will match your aesthetic. 

If replacing a ceiling fixture isn’t an option, you can get a similar impact with a carefully chosen floor lamp! Lamps are the MVP of accent lighting for a reason – they’re easy to move, replace, and rearrange, and come in a HUGE variety of styles. You can go for something small that blends in, but we also love the way a large, yet simple, lamp like this one makes a statement without taking over. 

That’s all there is to it! Just to recap, here are the 5 easy steps to create a modern minimalist interior: 

  1. Create an open floor plan – Tie separate spaces together with color and materials and rearrange furniture to maximize your space.
  2. Choose a small color palette – Neutrals are your friend, but it’s okay to add in a little bit of color to make your space feel like you.
  3. Remember functionality – Use multipurpose furniture, and organize, organize, organize. Store things that aren’t being used so that they’re not cluttering up your space.
  4. Add light – Having lots of natural and indoor lighting is what makes your space feel open and airy. Light up dark corners and workspaces.
  5. Finish it off with thoughtful accents – Don’t over-accessorize. Pops of color and texture give life to a space, but try to incorporate these add-ons with the functional elements of your space – like a colored sofa or an upgraded light fixture.

——–

Modern minimalist design can be a difficult concept to balance, but it’s very forgiving and so beautiful when done correctly. If you need help finding the right lighting for your modern minimalist home, our experts at Hobrecht Lighting can help!

9 Mind-Blowing Uses for LED Strip Lights

9 Mind-Blowing Uses for LED Strip Lights

by ·

If you’re looking to add some atmosphere or a little more “IT” factor to your living spaces, new and ultra-versatile LED strip lighting may be the perfect thing for you. Sized smaller than your pinky finger and capable of infinite adjustments in color, length, lumens, and voltage, LED strip lights like these can hide, and transform, just about any space you can imagine.

As a general rule, LEDs at 3000 kelvins (the ranking for light color) feel warm, cozy, and atmospheric, making them preferable for residential uses. These LED strip lights can transform virtually any space, so long as they can still connect to a power source. Ready for some of our favorite examples?

1. Kitchen Cabinets

Use LED strip lights under cabinets as trendy task lighting. It’ll illuminate your counters and your beloved backsplash. For extra pizzazz, add a strip under your bottom cabinets as well—it’ll add more dimension to your room and give you several good options for night lighting!

2. Hallways and Bookshelves

For some subtle lighting in the hallway, apply the strip lighting under the trim piece that is dropped from the ceiling. As for bookshelves, line them inside, under, or above shelves to dress then t up and make them extra inviting. 

3. Artwork

In addition to spotlights or general lighting, lining the back or sides of a frame really makes artwork pop!

4. Master Bedroom

LED strip lights are a low-cost way to bring some soft mood lighting to your most relaxing space. Line them along your headboard, around artwork, or bordering your doors.

5. Night Light

Use a similar trick for small children up to teens, turning strip lighting into a fashionable, functional nightlight.

6. Bathrooms

Add LED’s behind your bathroom mirror for an extra glow, or consider one of their most functional uses ever—under the cabinet lighting! Prevent middle-of-the-night toe injuries by using subtle strip lights to illuminate the space. 

7. Stairs

For extra convenience and safety, LED’s fit on the underside of a hand rail for night-time access or under the lip of each step. Say goodbye to stubbed toes and awkward stumbling!

8. Mirrors

Hanging mirrors have a gap that provides easy access for LED’s! You’ll love the extra task lighting for shaving, applying makeup, or just getting a good view with that extra glow.

9. Outside

So many great uses here! LED strips add some atmosphere to any patio, pool ledge, or pergola.  Line outdoor pathways or stairs with these tiny lights and enjoy their practical side as well.

If you’re feeling excited by these possibilities, reach out to us to learn more! As your local lighting showroom, we know the ins and outs of quality, affordable lighting in all shapes and sizes. Hobrecht Lighting is here for all your project needs!

5 Easy Steps to Create a Modern Minimalist Interior

5 Easy Steps to Create a Modern Minimalist Interior

by ·

With an intentional lack of furniture and decorations, minimalist design can sometimes come off as cold and uncomfortable. Over the past few years, as we’ve spent more time in our homes than ever before, the need for comfort in a home design has been made crystal clear.

 

Today’s modern minimalism prioritizes simplicity with a decluttered and uncomplicated aesthetic, while also emphasizing the need for comfort in a space. You’ll see more color and accessories than the minimalist interiors of the past had, but they’ll be thoughtfully chosen extras that provide warmth and life to the space without going overboard. 

Whether you’re interested in adopting a minimalist lifestyle or just love the simple yet dramatic design aesthetic, modern minimalism is an achievable aesthetic for just about anyone! 

 

To help you get started, we broke down the basics of modern minimalist interior design into a handful of easy steps you can use to confidently focus on the right essentials. 

 

1. Create an Open Floor Plan

Focus on creating as much connected open space as possible. Obviously, taking out walls is the easiest way to create an open floor plan. But if you’re not in a place where you can tear down walls, there are some simple and subtle tricks you can use to make adjoining spaces feel more connected. 

 

One way to connect spaces in your home is to use the same flooring and wall paint colors for the entire space. This will make rooms look like they belong together, even through a doorway. 

A unique accent, like this minimalist pendant light, grabs your attention through the doorway from across the way, which helps your brain perceive the two spaces as one.

Finally, play around with your furniture placement to maximize your space. In smaller spaces, this often means keeping large furniture close to the walls to keep open pathways throughout but don’t underestimate the power of a simple, low-profile, floating sofa used to define a space.

2. Choose a Small Color Palette

A classic hallmark of minimalist design is a neutral monochromatic color palette, typically in warm grey, white, or beige tones. Contrast is important – add dimension and balance with a mix of darker and lighter shades within your color palette.

If an all-neutral color palette just isn’t your thing, you can still get a modern minimalist look with color – you just need to stick to a small palette. Keep most of the colors you use very light, to increase the feeling of airiness and reflect light best. 

3. Functional Design is Key

It doesn’t matter how pretty a room is, if it’s inconvenient or difficult to use you’re not going to be happy with it. When you’re trying to adopt modern minimalism, understanding how to pare down to only the essentials can be hard. When you’re going through your room, ask yourself:

 

 “Does this serve a purpose?”   “Do I already have something that serves this purpose?”   “Is there a multipurpose option that will serve this purpose and others?” 

Just remember, there’s no hard and fast rule for what it means to be “functional” – and you don’t need to justify every item you love to keep it in your home. A funky decorative pillow that makes you smile when you see it is serving a purpose (and it’s making your couch more comfortable – so it’s multifunctional!) 

A huge part of functional design is organization. Decluttering for a modern minimalist space involves reducing “visual clutter” too! Things not actively being used should have a home where they can be tucked away until they’re needed. 

 

Opt for storage options that have doors that will hide the things you’re not using.  When styling open shelving, choose items that match your color palette, leave plenty of open space, and use boxes or baskets to organize and hide loose items.

Don’t be surprised if you get down to the basics and you aren’t in love with what you have left. You’ll likely need to start making smart trades here and there to end up with a set of basics that you love.

4. Add Light – Lots of It

Like most modern design aesthetics, modern minimalism focuses on filling the space with light. Where possible, introduce as much natural light as you can. The light colors on your walls and floors will reflect it – making your room feel open and airy. 

In addition to natural light, a modern minimalist space needs a well-thought-out interior lightscape. Make sure your general ambient light is bright without being harsh, and add extra lighting in dark corners and over workspaces. Hidden lights, like LED strips under a cabinet, are an expensive DIY trick with a big payoff! 

Because minimalism is all about doing less with more, it’s okay to be choosy about how you add light to your space – you don’t want to clutter up your home with a floor lamp in every dark spot! When you’re shopping for fixtures, stick to simple shapes that can double as design elements.

5. Finish it Off With Thoughtful Accents

Little pops of color and texture are what take a modern minimalist space from blah to wow. You can do this in a number of ways, but remember to keep it simple. Start with just one color or texture and see how it feels before committing to more. 

 

When possible, look for ways to upgrade your existing decor rather than adding extra items. Look for functional pieces that you need in your space, but feel a little lackluster, and find a more interesting alternative. Replace an old, overstuffed sofa with a simpler version in a deep color (as long as it’s in your color palette!), or give an old end table new life with a coat of paint.

Pro Tip: If have a hard time committing to color, consider using houseplants! They introduce a vibrant green color and soft, organic textures, which can balance out a minimalist design quite nicely.

By far, one of the most effective ways to accent a modern minimalist design is with an interesting light fixture. Your room will always need light, so it might as well be an integrated part of the design! 

 

A stunning ceiling light with a simple shape will stand out as a piece of art against a minimalist backdrop and elevate the entire design of the space. 

Pendant lamps are popular in modern minimalist design because they come in simple shapes with lots of finish options, so it’s easy to find something that will match your aesthetic. 

If replacing a ceiling fixture isn’t an option, you can get a similar impact with a carefully chosen floor lamp! Lamps are the MVP of accent lighting for a reason – they’re easy to move, replace, and rearrange, and come in a HUGE variety of styles. You can go for something small that blends in, but we also love the way a large, yet simple, lamp like this one makes a statement without taking over. 

That’s all there is to it! Just to recap, here are the 5 Easy Steps to Create a Modern Minimalist Interior: 

 

  1. Create an open floor plan – tie separate spaces together with color and materials, and rearrange furniture to maximize your space.
  2. Choose a small color palette – neutrals are your friend, but it’s okay to add in a little bit of color to make your space feel like you.
  3. Functional design is key – use multipurpose furniture, and organize, organize, organize. Store things that aren’t being used so that they’re not cluttering up your space.
  4. Add light – having lots of natural and indoor lighting is what makes your space feel open and airy. Light up dark corners and workspaces.
  5. Finish it off with thoughtful accents – Don’t over-accessorize. Pops of color and texture give life to a space, but try to incorporate these add-ons with the functional elements of your space – like a colored sofa or an upgraded light fixture.

 

——–

 

Modern Minimalist design can be a difficult concept to balance, but it’s very forgiving and so beautiful when done correctly. If you need help finding the right lighting for your Modern Minimalist home, the experts at Hobrecht Lighting can help!

How to Choose the Right Bathroom Vanity Lighting

How to Choose the Right Bathroom Vanity Lighting

by ·

When done right, your bathroom lighting should be able to take you from a bright morning routine to an evening spa break to a midnight trip to the restroom without feeling too over or underpowered in any scenario.

Most builder-grade vanity lights just don’t cut it. They’re often too high, too bright or dim, and don’t really add much to the design of your bathroom. So if you’re ready to try something new, we’ve compiled a list of the most common vanity light fixtures to help you figure out precisely what you (and your bathroom routine) need to create the bathroom oasis you deserve. 

Here is a short list of light fixtures and bulbs to consider so that you’ll be prepared to balance the functionality and style according to your budget and available space.

Types of Vanity Light Fixtures

Your bathroom vanity includes the mirror, counter, sink, and surrounding lighting. Vanity lighting is often the only source of light in the bathroom – and it largely determines your experience there. So it’s important to get it right!

There are several types of vanity light fixtures, each with its own set of benefits. Which one you choose is up to you – but make sure you consider both style and function to make sure you’re happy with the result.

Vanity Light Bar 

Light bars are the most common fixture for bathroom vanities because they’re easy to install and give off a lot of light. Light bars consist of a long base (the bar) with light emanating from its entire length. They’re usually mounted just above the mirror from a single, central wiring box. 

Most people picture a base with multiple bulbs sticking out into the room, like you’d see in a “builder’s grade” new home or surrounding the mirror in a makeup artist’s studio. Other light bars consist of a single, long light source, such as a sleek LED bar or a fluorescent tube. 

The advantage to installing light bars is that they create even lighting with fewer shadows. (Anyone who’s ever done makeup or shaved using a bathroom mirror knows how important that is!)

Pro tip: The most crucial part of successfully using a light bar is getting the proper proportions. Ensure the bar is at least 75% the mirror’s width and never longer than the counter below. Keeping the bar at least 6-6.5 ft high will give even light without shining directly into your eyes. 

Mirror-framing Sconces 

Sconces are light fixtures that attach to the wall rather than the ceiling. They’re often found above the center of the mirror, although it’s worth considering placing your sconces on either side of the mirror– you’ll get the best light for your morning routine and playfully break from tradition! 

The number of bulbs and types of shades will impact your placement. Some shades only allow for downward light, so those work best up high. Glass shades are a little more forgiving – they’ll shine light on your face when installed above or to the side of the mirror. 

Not only are sconces an excellent fit for lighting your vanity, but they also make a statement. You’ll show that you put real thought into your bathroom design by using a non-traditional fixture.

Pro tip: We recommend mounting sconces with the center of the fixtures about 60″ high and about 28″ apart. Try installing one on either side of your mirror to get even, shadow-free light on your face as you’re getting ready.

Unexpected Pendants

If you’re looking for a way to make your bathroom look unique, try out pendant lighting. These fixtures hang directly from the ceiling, with the bottom of the shade right above eye level. Not only are pendants a bold statement, but they’re also a versatile option if you’re short on space.

In a bathroom, sconce and pendant placement guidelines are very similar. A single pendant directly over the mirror is an excellent option for small bathrooms. They also work well as a pair, framing the mirror on either side. 

Because pendants have an extra “wow” factor, they’re also sometimes used in larger groups to create a design element. For example, this designer hung multiple pendants along the mirror – and we think it turned out great!

Pro Tip: We recommend spacing your pendants about 30 inches apart to avoid harsh lighting. Also, keep in mind the pendant’s ability to shine directly onto the mirror– a thin or transparent shade will reflect a lot of light. It’s a good trick to make your space feel brighter but may cast unexpected shadows.

Modernize with LEDs

For a modern (and energy-efficient) touch, consider opting for LED lights. They last for years, cost little to run, and come in a wide variety of color options.  LED light bulbs can be installed in almost any fixture in place of a traditional bulb.

Some light fixtures come with LED lights already integrated, which means you’ll never have to change a bulb for the life of the fixture. While these mirrors come in a variety of styles, they’re most often found in sleek, modern bathrooms with a minimalist feel. 

LED strip lights may be an unexpected choice for the bathroom. They’re easy to install (some are even peel-and-stick!) and will make your bathroom feel high-end with just a little bit of creativity. As vanity lighting, try installing them behind a mirror to give a soft, luxurious glow. 

Pro tip: Because they are so small, LED strip lights can be tucked in unexpected places, like along the underside of a mirror to light the counter, or along the bottom of a floating vanity to light the space underneath. Adding light to dimly-lit edges and corners of your bathroom will make it feel bigger!

When to Hire a Pro

If you own a newer home and have tools handy, you can probably handle most light fixture upgrades yourself. But not all fixture update projects are created equal. For example, you may have an older home that requires electrical updates, don’t own tools, need new circuits for new fixture locations, or simply don’t feel comfortable with an electrical project. 

Electricians will ensure your new fixture is installed quickly and safely. Not sure how to hire a qualified electrician? No problem! Your local lighting showroom can often connect you to a great pick– and offer a wider selection of fixtures while you’re there!

Ready to update your bathroom vanity? The experts at Hobrecht Lighting can help you find the right fixture for your room, budget, and style. Contact us today!

Homeowner’s Guide to Backyard Lighting

Homeowner’s Guide to Backyard Lighting

by ·

Whether it’s a quiet family dinner or a formal party, the backyard can be a perfect hosting space. Kids have room to run around, hosts can invite more people, and no one has to vacuum at the end of the night. But when the sun starts to set – you’ll want to have thought ahead about how you can keep the party going without having to move inside.

Before you get started, take a minute to think about how what purpose your lights need to serve. Your outdoor lighting should be intentional and useful, not just a hodge-podge of tiki torches and solar-powered spikes. Balance is important – the right lighting will make your yard cozy and inviting. Not enough light and you’ll be tripping in the dark, too much light and it can create disorienting shadows, or lead to complaints from neighbors.

To help you get it just right, we’ve put together a few tips and tricks to help you put together your next backyard BBQ.

Stair and Floor Lights

The deck or patio area is central for meals or small-group gatherings. One popular approach to deck lighting is using stair lights. Not only are they elegant, but they also provide an important safety feature. They light the space gently without being distracting, and they make steps easy to see in the dark.

You can also install smaller lights on the floor of your deck. These lights can help brighten up corners and can also make your space safe when it’s dark outside.

Recessed Patio Lights

On covered decks and patios, recessed lights are a great option. They’re installed up inside the ceiling, so they’ll be well-protected from the elements. From a design standpoint – they’re the perfect choice to provide your patio with even all-over light that doesn’t get in the way of the view of your backyard. Make sure you double-check before you buy, not all recessed lights are rated for outdoor use.

String Lights

String lights are wildly popular – and for good reason. They are fast and easy to put up, and their effect is magical no matter where you put them! You can attach them to the exterior of your house, a deck railing, or anything tall enough to set them up overhead.

If you don’t have a patio or deck area, they can be strung on posts around a firepit, along a fence, or even in the trees and bushes surrounding your entertaining space.

Landscaping Lighting

You can use landscape lighting to show off the best features of your yard, even after the sun has gone down. Just like stair lighting, landscape lights are multi-functional as a design element and a safety feature. Many people opt for solar-powered lights to brighten walkways and highlight design features, but you can also hire an electrician to hardwire these lighting elements to a light switch you can flip on and off from the comfort of your patio.

There are countless shapes and sizes of landscape light fixtures to choose from. You may want to consult with an expert to recommend what will work for your yard space. However, there are a few general principles to keep in mind:

  1. Don’t overdo it. Landscape lighting isn’t meant to mimic daytime, it should create just enough light to make the yard inviting at night.
  2. Consider safety. Lighting pathways is a must if you’re using your backyard after dark – but make sure you do it safely. Keep lights out of the way of where you’re walking so that they don’t become trip hazards. Motion-sensor lights near doors and on sheds are also an important safety feature that can deter theft.
  3. Choose your colors. White / daylight light will show colors just as they are during the day, but they can be pretty harsh. Yellow / warm / soft white light will give your yard a more cosy and relaxing feel, and it attracts fewer bugs.
  4. Timers are your friend. If you’re planning a one-time party it’s not a big deal to flip the switch on and off, but if you’ll be in your backyard daily, consider putting your outdoor lights on a timer so that you won’t have to remember to flip them off before bed.
  5. Look into LED. These bulbs may cost more upfront, but they’ll last much longer and use far less energy.

Your Backyard Plan

Hobrecht Lighting’s showroom offers a great selection of outdoor lighting options, and our lighting experts would love to help you plan your backyard entertaining space and find exactly what you need. Stop by our showroom and see it for yourself, or check us out online and we’ll help you get started. 

 

How Many Blades Does Your Ceiling Fan Really Need?

How Many Blades Does Your Ceiling Fan Really Need?

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Ceiling fans are great at providing comfort year-round. A good ceiling fan will help you save on energy costs by circulating the air in your home. In the summer they create a draft, making the room feel cooler. In cold weather, you can switch the fan’s direction to circulate warm air from central heating around the room. 

Ceiling fans are so ubiquitous that for many people it’s hard to imagine life without one! So what happens when your fan breaks, and it’s time to get a new one? 

If you’ve shopped for ceiling fans recently, you know that there are a lot of options. From the ultra-modern models with a single fan blade, to the “windmill” design fans with so many blades that there’s hardly any space between them – many homeowners on the hunt start to ask: 

How many blades does my ceiling fan really need? 

Does the blade count actually change anything, or is it just for aesthetics? 

In short, the answer is “yes to both.” The blade count on a ceiling fan is largely viewed as a style issue, but it does impact the way the fan works. Apart from the obvious design differences, the number of blades on a fan will also affect its noise level and energy consumption. 

Noise Level

The fewer the blades, the faster a fan needs to spin to move the same amount of air. Lots of spinning means lots of moving parts, which usually translates to more noise. Take large industrial fans, for example – they typically have two or three blades and are pretty loud. 

On the other end of the spectrum, fans with higher blade counts can move a lot of air spinning at a slower rate. Less motion means less noise – windmill-style fans with eight to ten blades are virtually silent. 

There isn’t an exact cutoff between noisy versus quiet fans, but a good middle range is around five. If you want a quieter fan, one with five or more blades will likely be your best choice. 

Energy Efficiency

Another thing to consider when choosing a fan is how much it will cost to run. Fans with more blades create more drag, requiring more energy to operate. This is one reason why large, always-on fans (like you’d see in a commercial space) often only have three blades. They may be a bit noisier, but they save on energy costs.

While its blade count does impact the energy efficiency of a fan, it’s definitely not the only factor involved. The efficiency of fans can also be affected by the length and angle of the blades and by the type of motor it uses. It’s best to check the energy rating of your fan when possible. 

Style and Aesthetics

Aside from energy efficiency and noise level, the main difference between fans with high and low blade counts is really just style and aesthetics. “Windmill” styles with eight to twelve blades can feel rustic, whereas fans with two to three blades usually feel minimalist and industrial. 

How do I know what the right number is for me?

The short answer to this question is – it really doesn’t matter very much for most people. It doesn’t matter whether noise levels, energy efficiency, or aesthetics are your top priority; it’s pretty likely that you’ll be able to find a fan that will meet your needs in all three categories. 

Most often, it’s safe to shop by your style preferences first, then find a fan that meets your noise and efficiency needs from that selection. A modern, high-quality ceiling fan will be designed to work well regardless of the blade count.

If you’re looking for a quality fan that will keep you cool for years to come, stop by our showroom or give us a call. Our lighting experts are ready and waiting to help you find exactly what you need!

7 Things You Should Know About Organic Modern Interior Design

7 Things You Should Know About Organic Modern Interior Design

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Organic Modern – also called contemporary rustic or transitional rustic – is an interior design style that’s become very popular in the last year as people have fallen in and out of love with sleek minimalist and farmhouse chic interiors. Organic Modern interior design is a natural next step – it incorporates the best of the minimalist design aesthetic with the warmth of natural materials. The result is an open and airy space that oozes comfort. 

If you’re looking for a way to simplify your farmhouse aesthetic or add some comfort to your minimalist space, we have good news! The shift into Organic Modern is as natural and effortless as these interiors feel.

So what is Organic Modern, exactly? We’ve put together a quick cheat sheet to help you identify the core elements of Organic Modern and find ways to incorporate it into your home.

1. Neutral colors and earthy accents

Organic Modern design is rooted in minimalist design, so keep your color palette neutral – think beige, white, tan, and gray. Keep walls and flooring light and bright to create an airy, clean feeling.

Keep in mind – a neutral palette does NOT mean monotone! Organic Modern design aims to warm up classic minimalist styling, so you’ll often see warm, deep accent colors in natural hues, like green, blue, terracotta, or orange. 

Keep in mind that your lighting can change the way your colors look. Organic Modern’s inviting neutral colors often look best in soft, warm light. We recommend buying 2-3 different colors of light bulbs and trying them in your space. You’ll be surprised at how much the colors change! 

2. Balance 

Organic Modern design strives to strike the perfect balance between sleek and streamlined minimalism and natural shapes and textures. 

Achieving this balance isn’t easy, but it’s very important. Be mindful of how many sleek versus organic pieces you incorporate. Pay attention to scale. Scatter organic shapes and textures around your space, but don’t fill it to the brim. Leave plenty of open space to keep that light, airy minimal feel. 

In this attic, they’ve artfully balanced the clean lines of the architectural details with an organic, flowy pendant light, lots of comfy blankets and pillows, and a handful of plants. 

Many homeowners forget to budget for lighting when they’re redesigning and end up with something cookie-cutter they can “hide” – but well-thought-out light fixtures are absolutely essential to creating a balanced design. 

Finding a jaw-dropping fixture that’s perfect for your space can be a challenge if you limit yourself to what you can find at your local hardware stores. If you stop by our lighting showroom, we have access to thousands of lighting options – and we’d love to help you find that unique fixture that makes your space.

3. Use natural materials

The crowning element of Organic Modern design is the consistent use of natural elements, such as stone, wood, and ceramics… and the shape, finish, and mix of pieces you choose will have a significant impact on how your room feels. Organic Modern design looks best with a mix of shapes, finishes, and materials – just like you’d find on a walk in the woods.

Balance is important here too. Natural materials tend to feel more rustic, so balance them out with modern pieces, like combining a raw-edge wooden dining table with modern seating. Stone vases and lamps introduce an earthy element, but stick to organic shapes over more ornate, traditional styles.

This living room showcases natural materials in all the right ways! The rounded, wooden elements bring the “organic” while the minimalist shape of the sofa and sleek stone fireplace bring the “modern” – married perfectly together to make a cozy Organic Modern space.

4. Bring the outside in with plants

Besides using natural elements in furniture and shapes, one of the best ways to bring Organic Modern design into your home is with plants! You’ll often see many of the same kinds of plants used in mid-century modern design (like palms, figs, and grasses) with a variety of sizes ranging from small shelf plants to larger trees and shrubs on the floor.

Plants clean your air, lift your mood, and brighten up the space. This homeowner took full advantage of their large windows and really made their plants the star of the design. They’re all in a similar color tone to the design and offer plenty of beautiful organic shapes and textures to balance out the clean lines of the furniture and architecture. 

5. Make it yours with unique and handmade pieces

Styling is one of the last steps when designing a space, and it’s the most fun because you can start making it your own! It’s an excellent opportunity to go thrifting, hit up the local flea market, or finally make that unique Etsy art purchase. 

We love how the unique shapes of the vases, prints, and light fixture here give this space so much visual interest without filling it to the brim.

Handmade pieces give your room personality, and they provide new textures and colors that are hard to find in a mass-produced decor store. When you’re looking, stay focused on finding colors and shapes that will highlight the unique balance of clean, modern, and earthy rustic pieces in your space. 

Make sure your lighting highlights your unique style! Light a cozy reading nook with your curated novel collection with a modern, organic lamp or pendant light made from natural materials. If you’re displaying your favorite finds on a bookshelf, consider adding a row of LED strip lights on the shelf above them!

6. Prioritize comfort 

Organic Modern design is minimalism made comfy. When considering your options, make sure that whatever you choose is comfortable and practical over anything else. 

What “comfortable and practical” means will vary from person to person, but here are some suggestions to get you started. 

  • Low Maintenance – Choose materials that are durable, low-maintenance, and easy to clean. There are plenty of natural materials that fit in this category, like clay, copper, finished wood, and stone.
  • Smooth Finishes – Choose materials that are “nice to the touch” – raw, natural edges are beautiful, but make sure they’re in places that won’t snag on guests’ clothes or skin. 
  • Pillows, Cushions, and Blankets – Create cozy spaces with plenty of soft textures. They’ll create an aesthetic balance against the harder natural materials while making your space so comfortable you’ll want to spend all your time there.

7. A Well-lit Space is a Comfortable Space

Proper lighting is a crucial element of any design project, but it often gets added in as an afterthought. This can cause significant problems for your space. If your finished room has dark corners, it won’t look right or feel inviting. A builders-grade traditional ceiling fixture can throw off the feel of a beautifully curated Organic Modern space. 

In the space below, this stunning light fixture brings Organic Modern design to a whole new level. But how do you replicate this in your home? We recommend considering two things when picking out a light fixture: the material choice and breaking tradition. 

Material Choice

Most default lighting includes stainless steel or brushed nickel and frosted white glass shades. Instead, play with finding fixtures with natural materials for the base or the shade. 

You might have a hard time finding anything else at a hardware store, but if you stop by a lighting showroom, they’ll be able to show you a wider selection of modern fixtures. 

Consider things like stone lamps that introduce texture, wicker pendants that soften the room, or colored shades that dimension.

Breaking Tradition

Traditional fixtures and placements work, and they’re always a safe bet. But with Organic Modern design, it’s okay to bend the rules to get a less structured look.

Don’t let the fear of a mistake stop you from trying something new. Get that funky fixture you love. Be bold with finishes and colors – great design moments happen when you choose something you love rather than playing it safe.

It’s okay to experiment with unconventional placements too! Try hanging pendant lights over your end tables instead of using lamps. Play with scale and get an oversized fixture (remember to balance your design!). 

Just give it a go – you’ll create a more interesting space. Remember – nothing in design is permanent, and your design can grow organically (right along with your houseplants) as you trade things in and out over time.

Just remember – the elements of Organic Modern are there to help guide you to a feeling more than anything, and there are no absolutes. So whether your take on Organic Modern borders on eclectic boho or modern with an emphasis on wood and stone, if you feel relaxed and connected, then you’ve created the perfect space for you.

It’s quite the balancing act! We don’t doubt that you’re up for the adventure, but if you’d like to skip the “hours of googling” phase of your lighting selection, let the experts at Hobrecht Lighting do the heavy lifting and help you find what you need!