Page 46 - Indulge April/May 2017

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More Enjoyable
Whether you have guests coming to watch a big
game or staying for an extended period of time,
your media room will no doubt be a popular gathering spot.
The American Lighting Association suggests a few ways
to enhance everyone’s viewing experience.
No matter what kind of space you have, whether it’s a
dedicated media room, a simple TV nook or something in
between, the fundamental components are comfort and
appropriate lighting. For the majority of homeowners, most
media-related activity takes place in a multi-use space,
which means the lighting must have the flexibility to go
from everyday activities to TV viewing.
“One of the primary design objectives in a media space
is to create the ability to achieve multiple and varied types
of experiences, and lighting provides the key element
to achieve that goal,” says Joe Rey-Barreau, AIA, IES,
education consultant for ALA and associate professor at the
University of Kentucky’s School of Interior Design.
Three necessary elements for the ultimate media viewing
experience are the source of light, types and placement of
light fixtures, and the use of smart dimmers.
Light source
Keep in mind that natural light from outside is as
influential as light from indoor fixtures. Multipurpose spaces
generally have windows, which create the need to control
Easy Ways to make your bathroom safer
46 | indulge • april 2017 You may think of your bathroom
as a relaxing oasis. Unfortunately,
bathrooms are actually the site of
200,000 injuries annually nationwide,
according to the National Safety
Council. These incidents happen
to people of all ages — from young
children who may see the bathroom as
a play area, to expecting moms whose
balance may be off kilter, to seniors.
You can reduce the risk of falling by
adding grab bars near the toilet, along
the showerhead wall and on the back
wall of the tub or shower. Grab bars also
that light during the daytime as well as at night when even
minor reflections can be distracting.
Erik Anderson, national sales manager for Lutron
Electronics Co., says that when it comes to lighting, “the
sun is light bulb number one.” He suggests using motorized
shades, which can be retrofitted to an existing window, as
a convenient and effective way to manipulate ambient light.
It is important to consider where your light is coming from
as well as the time of day and season, which affect not
only the amount of incoming light, but also the angle and
intensity of the light.
Smart dimmers
Using dimmers may seem like a no-brainer, especially
considering they are easy to install and highly impactful.
New wireless smart dimmers simply attach to a wall or
sit on a tabletop. Anderson explains that the dimmers
are designed for simple, do-it-yourself installation. The
inexpensive devices can be synced with a phone to control
the lights, window shades and room temperature from a
remote location.
provide assistance for getting in and out
of the tub, as well raising or lowering
yourself onto the toilet.
Because people of all ages are prone
to injury, adding these safety features
is a good idea for every household. And
these days, you can do so without
compromising on style — different
brands offer grab bars in different sizes,
finishes and styles, so these elements
can blend seamlessly into any décor.
With a few simple considerations,
you can prioritize safety in your
home’s bathrooms.