CONNECTED HOME: Get educated on smart homes

With all the talk about smart technology and connected homes the process may seem complicated and expensive. However, that does not have to be the case. There are some simple and surprisingly inexpensive options available on today’s market. Both Legrand N.A. and Lutron Electronics offer reasonably priced, easy-to-install automation products designed to make your home more comfortable, convenient and safe.

In many cases it just takes some simple retrofitting of an existing dimmer switch to give you the ability to control your lights, window shades and other electronic devices with a remote, tablet or smart phone. Home automation apps make it a snap to change your room into the perfect setting for movie night. For added ease, Lutron's Caseta Wireless system can be integrated with Apple, Amazon or Google platforms. Imagine simply asking Alexa to turn on your inside and/or outside lights before you get home. That’s a welcome home.

Talk with a professional about connected home lighting products at your local Hortons.

MIX MASTER: Blend styles, finishes for fresh look

Homeowners today are personalizing their space by mixing and matching fixture collections and finishes throughout their homes. As consumers become more sophisticated and aware of various styles, they are gaining the confidence to create their own look by blending designs, shapes and finishes without relying on traditional rules of limited divergence.

In keeping with consumers’ desire to mix it up, lighting manufacturers are coming out with fixtures that blend materials together to create a vintage look. One popular trend is fixtures combining brushed nickel and graphite for an updated, traditional style that can comfortably mingle with industrial design.

Also new is the curated trend, created as a way for consumers to reflect their dreams, even if they have not yet reached the life plateau to which they aspire. For more about the curated trend, as well as mixing and matching materials and styles, take a look at Progress Lighting’s new video about current trends in lighting.

Stop by Hortons Home lighting retail store to see what's new in lighting. Back to Top