Things are finally “shaking out” here at the new house, and we are starting to see where there is a lack of lighting – mostly because we re-purposed the rooms for our own use instead of using them according to how they were labeled on the floor plan.

We’ve been having trouble with lighting in our general living area – mostly because we are trying to cut down on glare on the 50″ plasma screen 15 feet away. The floor lamp we had just didn’t work in the same space as the very tall cat furniture tower we rewarded “the kids” with when we moved. But on occasion I would like to be able to sit here and read a magazine (this occurs most when one of us is waiting for the other to get started with a show or something).

Of course, the designer lighting we would like to have installed costs a fortune and we just aren’t ready to spend that kind of money. But when I went online to the web site for Seattle Lighting I found a number of wall sconce options that could be converted to plug-in type lighting (to cut down on installation costs of course).

So the best way to get what you want is to be the one who puts together the list. I sent my husband a list of about 10 links to certain wall sconces that *I* liked. It makes it easier for him, since he doesn’t have time to do the hunting, and I am not faced with choices I hate. It’s a win-win situation.

Now, I wasn’t looking for Energy Star lighting specifically. But I was pleasantly surprised that we intersected on a nice fixture (pictured above) that had a painted Restoration bronze finish with French Scavo glass. It includes two 13-watt spiral G24q-1 4 pin compact fluorescent bulbs. I really don’t like the quality of lighting from a CFL – it’s a real compromise for me to use them, despite the energy benefits. I suspect because the bulbs will be behind this beautifully colored glass I won’t notice the harshness of the lighting.

This fixture meets strict Energy Star® requirements. Energy Star® is a government-backed program dedicated to promoting products that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This organization assists individuals and businesses in the identification of energy efficient products.

I also am willing to use more CFLs because it is getting easier and easier to dispose of burned out bulbs. CFLs contain mercury and can not be placed in the trash. It is considered a hazardous waste. I used to kick them around the house for months before a trip to the transfer station where we could turn them in. Now many of the local hardware stores have a “take it back” program for CFLs – I am so happy about this!

If you search “Energy Star” at the online store for Seattle Lighting, called Destination Lighting, you will find 251 different products and a number of indoor and outdoor options. Light up the night and your life! We did! I can’t wait for it to arrive. I guess we will have to stop moving the furniture around now.

UPDATE: Drat, backordered until December 20th! That just means we have great taste…