Lighting Isn’t Cheap: Here’s How to Do It Right
Andi • May 13, 2021
Tips for the right lighting design in every room
Lighting
was once the poor relation of remodeling – a check-off item more endured than embraced.
A few years ago, you would have spent maybe 1.5% of your remodeling budget on lighting. But today you’re looking at more like 5%. After all, the newest, smartest, wireless-connected bulbs featured on the Apple store site cost $50 each.
“It’s a new world of lighting,” says lighting guru Joseph Rey-Barreau, an architect, lighting designer, and University of Kentucky design professor. “Changes are happening so quickly, people have to think about it more than ever.”
Skilled lighting design may not be the primary part of a renovation, but it shouldn’t be an afterthought.
“Once you’ve put holes in your drywall, you’re stuck,” says Philip Finkelstein, a New York lighting specialist. Finkelstein recently revised a customer’s kitchen lighting plan (drawn by an electrician) that would have cast shadows on all prep areas — and cost more to install.
Still, lighting can be a bear to understand. The world has its own language (know what lumens and Kelvins are?), and increasing costs can make decisions intimidating. So it makes sense to learn about lighting before you begin your remodeling project. Believe us, you’ll love your remodel much more when it sets the right mood and saves you coin because you installed the correct fixtures and bulbs from the get-go.
Learning the Language of Lighting
Lighting design that’s done right has three layers:
1. Ambient (general lighting of a room).
2. Task (such as food prep).
3. Accent (for highlighting a piece of art or focal point).
To do these three layers well, you’ll need to understand the terms used to describe light bulbs:
Kelvin:
A scale of measurement for the “color” a light produces. The higher the Kelvin (K) number, the cooler the light appears. Most bulbs will be in the 2,500K to 6,500K range — with 2,500 being the warmest and 6,500 the coolest. For reference, a candle burns at 1,900K and sunlight is 10,000K.
Wattage:
How much electricity a bulb consumes. Most of us are used to wattage being an indicator of brightness (the higher the wattage, the brighter the bulb). Not so anymore. LEDs and CFLs use far fewer watts than the old incandescents. Today, lumens are the gauge for brightness.
Lumens:
The amount of light you get from a bulb — in other words, its brightness. For instance, you need a total of 1,000-3,000 lumens to properly light a 250-ft. living room.
This chart from the Lighting Research Center shows how many lumens you need for particular tasks. If you’re older or your eyes are weak, you’ll want to increase the lumens.
| Task Area | Minimum Lumens |
| Reading | 98 |
| Closet | 381 |
| Dressing | 1,680 |
| Dining table | 315 |
| Kitchen cutting counters | 360 |
| Range | 450 |
| Sink | 450 |
| Toilet | 45 |
| Vanity | 1,680 |
| Outdoor entrance | 996 |
| Paths | 297 |
| Flower beds | 972 |
| Stairs, entries, hallways | 1,200 |
To help simplify all this data about lights, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission requires light bulb makers to place labels on packages that estimate:
- Yearly energy cost.
- How long the bulb will last.
- Whether the bulb feels warm, cool, or somewhere in between.
- How many watts of energy the bulb uses.
Example:
A soft, incandescent table lamp bulb might use 60 watts; cost $7.23/year for about one year; emit 630 lumens; and appear warm at 2,850K.
A bright, LED bulb to light hallways might use only 9 watts; cost $1.08/year for 22 years; emit 800 lumens; and appear closer to daylight at 5,000K.
Related:
Choosing the Right Bulb to Get the Look You Want
Room-by-Room Lighting Tips
If you’re trying to set a romantic mood in the bedroom, you don’t need the same amount of light as when you’re julienning fries in the kitchen
. Each room has its own lighting needs. Here’s a breakdown:
Kitchens
(5,000-10,000 total lumens)
Kitchens are a challenge to light because they serve so many purposes — food prep, family dinners, homework location. Layering light — recessed, pendants, ceiling fixtures — gives you the type of light you need.
- To reduce shadows, place recessed lights on the sides (not centers) of ceilings.
- Light kitchen islands so shadows don’t fall where you’ll be cutting vegetables or kneading dough. For a 6-foot island, that could mean placing two to three small pendants in a row directly above where you’ll be standing.
- Chandeliers in the center of the room should have shades that direct light down.
- Always install under-cabinet lights for task lighting.
- Use above-cabinet lighting for ambient and mood lighting.
Bathroom lighting (4,000-8,000 total lumens)
- Ceiling fixtures aren’t good lights for applying makeup or shaving; they cast shadows on faces. Placing lights on the sides of a mirror is better. Tubular fluorescents that are the same length of the mirror work well. If you have a big wall mirror, place a fixture with shades pointing down above the mirror, which will cut down on shadows.
- Budget for a light above the tub and shower when you remodel. Showers especially can be dark, making it hard to see when you’re cleaning or shaving.
- Separate water closets should have their own light and exhaust fan .
- Install dimmers for middle-of-the-night bathroom visits.
Bedrooms (2,000-4,000 total lumens)
- Install recessed lighting or a center fixture for general bedroom tasks, such as making the bed, dressing, and cleaning.
- Use table lamps with warm lights to help set the mood for rest and relaxation.
- Add dimmers to bedroom lights so you can quickly change the mood.
Living Rooms (1,500-3,000 total lumens)
Living room lighting should be flexible for the many things you do at home — sit and talk, read, watch TV (whether on a big screen or a mobile device), play games, etc. Your living room or family room will need to make the most of the three lighting layers mentioned earlier.
- With ambient lighting, avoid placing lights directly over seating unless you angle them away.
- Use task lighting, usually lamps, for reading and other things you do while sitting.
- Install accent lighting in the form of spotlights and picture lights for the room’s focal point and artwork. Light individual artwork with picture lights set at a 30-degree angle. If you’re lighting several pictures, light the wall with track lighting or spotlights.
Dining Rooms (3,000-6,000 lumens)
- Don’t position lights above your dining chairs — it’ll cast ugly shadows on faces.
- To prevent head clunks when getting up from the dining room table, size the fixture no wider than the table less 12 inches.
- Adjustable recessed lights (ones you can position at different angles) are great for highlighting centerpieces, candles, or flowers.
- Dimmers are a must to set the mood.
Home Offices (3,000-6,000 lumens)
- Don’t forget to highlight your accomplishments — college diploma, picture with the president, Best Dad award — with adjustable recessed lights or surface-mounted spotlights.
- Train recessed lights at the walls — called wall-washing — to make home offices feel larger and look brighter.
- Poorly placed lights will produce annoying reflections on computer screens. Portable lamps are good light choices because you can move them to avoid reflections.
- If you’re in and out of your office all day, install occupancy sensor controls to avoid energy waste.
Feel Like You Need Professional Help?
A long line of professionals is eager to help you add lighting to your remodel. But when it comes to designing a lighting plan, you don’t always get what you pay for. Architects and electricians will charge, maybe, $100/hour to map out lights, and they don’t necessarily have the latest lighting design training, says Larry Lauck of the American Lighting Association (ALA).
A lighting designer — the gold standard certified by the International Association of Lighting Designers — will charge between $250-$350/hour to place recessed lights and train LED spots on your artwork.
It’s a new world of lighting. People have to think about it more than ever.
Joseph Rey-Barreau, lighting designer and architect
However, lighting showrooms typically employ ALA-certified lighting specialists and consultants who have completed several levels of training on all aspects of lighting design. Lighting showroom professionals will design your plan for free, or for a starting fee, which you can apply to the products you buy.
Because selling lighting is their business, these professionals know all the latest lighting trends and products — there are over 200 options for recessed lights alone.
The Bellingham real estate market in 2025 has found a steadier rhythm. It’s more balanced, less frenzied, and far friendlier to buyers who come prepared. After several years of bidding wars and lightning-fast decisions, inventory has increased and prices have leveled, creating room for strategy and nuance again. That’s where a thoughtful negotiation plan makes all the difference. Understand the Current Market Landscape Buyers today have more leverage than they’ve had in years. With homes spending longer on the market and sellers adjusting expectations, understanding current pricing trends and comparable sales is key. I guide my clients through real-time Whatcom County data — reviewing price per square foot, recent closings in their preferred neighborhoods, and seasonal patterns — so every offer is rooted in fact, not emotion. Knowing what homes are actually selling for helps buyers negotiate confidently without overpaying. Leverage Increased Inventory With more listings available, buyers finally have room to slow down and make informed choices. Take the time to conduct thorough inspections, ask questions, and request repairs or credits when they’re justified. Still, timing matters. Desirable homes can move quickly, even in a calmer market. Having a pre-approval letter ready and showing flexibility with contingencies can set you apart. Sellers appreciate serious, prepared buyers who make the process smoother and more predictable. When I negotiate for clients, I focus on solutions, not standoffs — framing each request as a way for both sides to move forward comfortably. Craft Strategic, Seller-Friendly Offers Strong offers in a balanced market are built on precision, not pressure. A winning offer often combines fair pricing, flexibility, and professionalism. Smart buyers should: Land near fair market value to attract attention without sparking a bidding war. Use escalation clauses only when true competition exists. Match the seller’s preferred timeline for closing or possession. Limit or waive contingencies only when fully confident in the home’s condition. Small touches matter. Adjusting possession dates, offering to cover a minor fee, or writing a sincere personal note can make your offer stand out — without adding cost. Partner With Skilled, Local Negotiators Negotiation in Bellingham isn’t just about price; it’s about relationships. Local insight matters — from understanding micro-trends in neighborhoods like Fairhaven, Sunnyland, or Ferndale, to reading seller motivations and knowing how individual agents operate. My background in contract strategy and community leadership helps me structure offers that feel collaborative and professional — the kind that make sellers comfortable saying yes. The Bottom Line In Bellingham’s 2025 market, the best advantage for buyers comes from preparation, patience, and partnership. Clear communication, realistic expectations, and data-backed strategy turn negotiation from a guessing game into a confident, collaborative process. This new, more balanced market rewards buyers who understand timing, value, and the human side of real estate — securing the right home at the right price without the chaos of years past. Andi Dyer, REALTOR® RE/MAX Whatcom County 📞 Call: 360.734.6479 🌐 AndiDyer.com/schedule Expert Guidance to Buy, Invest, and Sell in Bellingham and Whatcom County Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is 2025 a good year to buy a home in Bellingham? Yes. The market is more balanced, giving buyers more negotiating power and time to make informed decisions without constant bidding wars. 2. Are home prices dropping in Bellingham? Prices have leveled slightly but remain steady. The market has transitioned from rapid growth to sustainable stability. 3. How long are homes staying on the market now? Most homes are spending longer on the market than in previous years, typically between 30 and 45 days, depending on price and condition. 4. What can buyers negotiate in 2025? Repairs, closing costs, or flexible timelines are common negotiation points. Sellers are often more open to conversation than they were in past years. 5. Why work with a local REALTOR®? Local agents understand neighborhood nuances, market trends, and the personalities behind listings — insight that can make or break a negotiation.
More Seattle buyers are choosing Bellingham right now primarily because of affordability, lifestyle, and the flexibility of remote work. With Seattle’s median home price around $766,000 in 2025, many buyers see Bellingham’s median price near $625,000 as a major opportunity to get more home for their money, often with larger lots, quieter streets, and the same Pacific Northwest charm. Bellingham offers the best of both worlds: a welcoming, small-town atmosphere paired with urban conveniences like a vibrant downtown, strong local arts, and steady employment sectors in healthcare, higher education, and technology. That mix helps sustain a healthy economy and keeps the area appealing for long-term living. Remote Work Opens the Door The ongoing rise of remote and hybrid work has changed how people think about “location.” Many Seattle-area professionals now realize they can keep their jobs and stay in Washington while escaping the high costs, traffic, and stress of city living. Bellingham makes that trade easy. It’s close enough to Seattle for visits or meetings but far enough away to enjoy a slower pace and a stronger connection to nature. Between Mount Baker, the San Juan Islands, and endless hiking and biking trails, it’s easy to see why people looking for balance are heading north. A Balanced and Competitive Market Nearly one in four Seattle-area buyers are exploring moves outside the metro area, and Bellingham is near the top of that list. The local market remains active but is far more balanced than Seattle’s, giving buyers more time and flexibility to find the right property. While desirable homes still attract competition, bidding wars are less intense, and inventory levels have improved. This creates a healthier environment for both buyers and sellers — a market where thoughtful preparation and realistic pricing matter more than speed. The Appeal Is Clear Seattle buyers are drawn to Bellingham because it delivers more value, space, and lifestyle without sacrificing access to the city’s cultural and professional connections. It’s affordable enough to feel like a smart investment, beautiful enough to feel like an escape, and connected enough to make the move practical. For many, it’s not about leaving Seattle — it’s about redefining what home looks like in the Pacific Northwest. Andi Dyer, REALTOR® RE/MAX Whatcom County 📞 Call: 360.734.6479 🌐 AndiDyer.com/schedule Expert Guidance to Buy, Invest, and Sell in Bellingham and Whatcom County Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is Bellingham more affordable than Seattle? Yes. With a median home price around $625,000 compared to Seattle’s $766,000, Bellingham offers noticeably more space and value for the money. 2. How far is Bellingham from Seattle? Bellingham is roughly 90 miles north of Seattle, about an hour and a half by car, making it close enough for business trips, family visits, or weekend plans. 3. What types of jobs are common in Bellingham? Major employment sectors include healthcare, higher education, small business, tourism, and a growing tech and remote-work community. 4. Is Bellingham a good place for remote workers? Absolutely. The area offers reliable internet access, quiet workspaces, and the freedom to enjoy outdoor recreation before or after the workday. 5. What makes Bellingham attractive for Seattle buyers? Lower prices, natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle top the list, but staying within Washington while maintaining career flexibility makes it even more appealing.
What I’m Listening To This Month Between showings, coffee stops, and scenic drives around Whatcom County, I love a good podcast to keep me company. Here are a few that have caught my ear lately—equal parts inspiring, hilarious, and a little mysterious. 🎧 Taskmaster: The Podcast If you love British humor, this one’s a treat. Each episode dives into the wonderfully chaotic world of Taskmaster, where comedians face absurd challenges with equal parts brilliance and questionable judgment. 🌍 Women Who Travel This series celebrates the ways women explore the world—blending candid storytelling, cultural insight, and pure wanderlust. Perfect listening for travel lovers and daydreamers alike. 🐾 Trained to Kill: The Dog Trainer, the Heiress, and the Bodyguard A true crime story rooted in Anacortes, this gripping series unravels a tangled web of loyalty, manipulation, and danger—each episode more surprising than the last. Have a favorite podcast to recommend? I’d love to hear it, especially something that pairs well with a drive along Chuckanut or a stroll through Fairhaven.
This is a subtitle for your new post
Despite the perception of a “slow market,” winter 2025 in Whatcom County actually represents a real opportunity for sellers who adapt their approach strategically. After several years of rapid home price growth and extremely tight inventory, the market has entered a more balanced phase marked by higher inventory, steady buyer demand, and stable pricing across the region. Inventory Is Up — and So Is Competition Inventory has increased significantly over the past year. In Bellingham, active listings are up 41% year-over-year , with similar trends seen in Ferndale, Lynden, Blaine, and Birch Bay. This growth gives buyers more choices than they’ve had in years, but it also means sellers are competing for attention. Homes that stand out with professional staging, high-quality photos, and competitive pricing continue to sell quickly, even as the overall pace slows. Sellers who approach listing preparation thoughtfully are still seeing strong offers and solid closing timelines. Prices Remain Steady Home prices across Whatcom County have softened only slightly from their 2024 peaks but remain stable overall. The median home price currently hovers between $615,000 and $625,000 , with detached homes averaging around $620,000 . Average days on market have increased modestly, giving buyers a bit more breathing room — but that shift also highlights the importance of realistic pricing. Homes priced too aggressively tend to linger, while those aligned with current market data still attract steady interest. Ferndale continues to appeal to buyers seeking affordability and newer developments, while Bellingham holds its value thanks to its waterfront access, cultural amenities, and strong local economy. A Balanced Market Creates Strategic Openings With roughly 3.5 to 4 months of inventory , Whatcom County has reached a level of balance not seen in years. Buyers have more time to make decisions, but sellers who present their homes well and price strategically are still rewarded. This isn’t the frantic, multiple-offer market of 2021—but it’s also not a downturn. It’s a recalibration. Sellers who see it that way are the ones finding success. The Seller’s Advantage: Preparation and Precision Winter markets tend to filter out casual buyers. The ones shopping now are typically motivated—relocating, upsizing, or taking advantage of improved selection. That’s why preparation matters so much. Well-staged homes that photograph beautifully online and are priced in line with recent sales continue to capture attention. Sellers who invest a little time in presentation and flexibility in negotiation are often the ones walking away with strong results. The Bottom Line Winter 2025 in Whatcom County isn’t a “slow” market—it’s a smarter one. With rising inventory, stable pricing, and buyers who are still active but more deliberate, it’s a season where strategy counts more than speed. Sellers who adapt to these changes—by pricing realistically, presenting their homes thoughtfully, and staying patient—can take advantage of this moment to move forward successfully. Andi Dyer, REALTOR® RE/MAX Whatcom County 📞 Call: 360.734.6479 🌐 AndiDyer.com/schedule Expert Guidance to Buy, Invest, and Sell in Bellingham and Whatcom County Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is winter a bad time to sell a home in Whatcom County? Not at all. Serious buyers stay active through winter, and less overall competition can make your home stand out. 2. Are home prices dropping in Whatcom County? Prices have softened slightly from their 2024 highs but remain steady. The market is balanced, not declining. 3. How long are homes taking to sell? Most homes are taking slightly longer—typically 30 to 45 days—but well-prepared listings can still go pending within two to three weeks. 4. Should sellers wait until spring 2026? Waiting isn’t always better. Listing now can mean less competition and a pool of serious buyers who want to move before spring. 5. What’s the key to selling successfully right now? Realistic pricing, strong presentation, and working with a REALTOR® who understands the shifting local market dynamics.
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
To make my traditional Swedish Glögg (mulled wine), you gently heat red wine and spirits with a blend of spices, orange zest, and sugar. The mixture is then strained and served warm with blanched almonds and raisins. Ingredients 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, or a Cotes du Rhone) 1/2 to 1 cup sugar (caster or granulated, to taste) 1/2 to 1 cup vodka, aquavit, bourbon, or brandy (optional, for a stronger drink) 1 orange (peel in wide strips, avoiding the white pith) 1 cinnamon stick 10 whole cloves 10 cardamom pods, lightly crushed 3-4 slices fresh ginger, peeled (optional) 1/2 cup raisins (plus more for serving) 1/2 cup blanched slivered almonds (for serving) Instructions Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, sugar, orange zest strips, cinnamon stick, cloves, crushed cardamom pods, and ginger slices (if using). Add the raisins and almonds into the mixture or save them for serving. Heat Gently Warm the mixture over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely. It is crucial that the mixture is heated gently and never allowed to boil, or the alcohol will cook off and the flavor will be spoiled. The temperature should stay below 175°F (77°C). This process typically takes 10-15 minutes. Steep Remove the pot from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let the spices infuse the wine. This can be done for at least 1 hour, or ideally, the mixture can be left to steep overnight in a cool place for a more intense flavor. Strain and Reheat Strain the glögg through a fine-mesh strainer to remove all the spices and orange peel. Discard the spices. Gently reheat the liquid over low heat until hot but not boiling. Add Spirit (Optional): Just before serving, stir in the vodka, aquavit, or other spirit of your choice, if using. Serve Ladle the warm glögg into small heatproof glasses or mugs. Garnish each serving with a few additional blanched almonds and raisins, which are traditionally eaten with a small spoon as you drink.
Bring a burst of color (and flavor!) to your table with this crisp, seasonal salad. Juicy pears, tart pomegranate seeds, and a lively ginger dressing make it a refreshing side for any fall or holiday meal. 🍁 Click below to get the recipe and add a little sparkle to your menu!
Got a surprise property tax bill? You may be able to appeal—but don’t wait. One homeowner called me two days before the deadline, and we built a successful appeal together. Check your 2025 valuation and email me “Tax Check” for a free review. It started with a Saturday night phone call. Frantic, a local homeowner reached out just days before the property tax appeal deadline. Their 2024 assessment had landed with a thud, forecasting a tax bill that felt wildly out of line with reality. The deadline to appeal? Monday, October 27th. Cue the scramble. That evening, too stormy to drive, I hunkered down at home and dove into the numbers. Something wasn’t right. The new valuation didn't match the trajectory of their neighborhood market. The math simply didn’t check out. Sunday morning, we got to work. I drove out to their property, and together we built a bulletproof appeal. We reviewed sales data, took updated photos, and pulled relevant comparables to submit with their documentation. The appeal package was ready to go by Monday morning. Crisis averted. Here’s what every Whatcom County homeowner should know: Your property valuation notice typically arrives in September. You have 30 days from the date on the notice to file an appeal. If the number looks off, don’t shrug and hope it’s close enough. You can challenge it—and often should, especially in fluctuating markets like Bellingham, Ferndale, and beyond. The key takeaway? Don’t wait until the last minute. It pays to be proactive. Assessments aren’t always accurate, and appealing your property valuation could save you thousands. If your 2025 valuation doesn’t reflect the true market value of your home, you have options—and you don’t have to figure them out alone. Let’s make sure you’re not overpaying. If your new valuation feels too high, DM me "Tax Check" and I’ll give you a free property value review. We’ll go over the numbers together and see if an appeal makes sense. Still have questions? Let’s meet for coffee and talk it through. I’m always happy to help you navigate the less-fun-but-super-important parts of homeownership.
🍂 This hearty vegetable lasagna is the perfect fall meal—warm, colorful, and packed with seasonal goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels just as good on a weeknight as it does at a fall gathering.
