Lighting Controls
When thinking about new lighting for your family room, it’s important not to forget about new lighting controls. Each fixture, or set of fixtures, is going to need a switch or dimmer. For your ambient lights, you can install a switch near the entrance of the room so that you can turn the overhead lights on and off as you enter and exit. If you’re installing a ceiling fan, think about adding a variable speed remote so that you can set the rotation where you want it, as well as reverse the rotation based on the time of year.
For your wall sconces and other dedicated accent lights, you’ll want a switch or dimmer for those as well. These controls can be near the ambient light switches, but make sure you’re able to easily access them when you need to turn an accent light on or off. For example, if you want to turn on the sconces above the fireplace, place the switch in a convenient location.
Your table and floor lamps will be controlled by their own individual switches or pull chains. You’ll want to place them in spots where their cords won’t be a tripping hazard while people are walking through the room. Floor outlets can be a prime solution for this problem, and we’ll gladly talk to you about updating the wiring in your family room.
Last but not least, dimmer switches are a great option for family rooms. You can place your sconces, recessed lights, and other fixtures on dimmers, giving you the ability to set the levels where you want them based on time of day or the mood you want to set at any given time.