A beautiful New York loft that evokes simple Quaker aesthetics

FREE IMAGES This SoHo loft, spanning an entire New York block, is such a breath of fresh air. It is urban and glamorous, but at the same time peaceful and simple. Enjoy!

first two images via Urban Kaleidoscope the rest via Remodelista

DIY: How to change out a wall mounted light fixture

FREE IMAGES This post may not be the typical sort of thing I feature, but I was lucky enough to receive two lighting fixtures from Westside Wholesale and wanted to show them off in a meaningful way by showing you step by step out to change out a wall mounted light fixture.  The lighting that was installed in our master bath when we moved in was nice, but it just wasn't our style.  So I jumped on the offer two review some fixtures of my choice and went with a classic, sophisticated wall mount -  the Kichler 5367CH Bathroom Light.

Pretty.

Let's begin.  Part 1: Removing the current fixture .  VERY IMPORTANT - Turn off the light switch that powers the fixture.

The existing fixture

Gather up any tools you think you may need ahead of time

Find the screw or peg that attaches the current fixture to the plate to remove the fixture.  Then, unscrew the back plate or begin disconnecting the wires (see below)

If you have to disconnect the wires first, you will notice black wires and white wires.  Black first and then white.  Untwist the cap connecting the black wires and then untwist them.

Next do the same to the white

Next, untwist the grounding wires

Loosen the grounding screw so you and release the grounding wire.

If you didn't remove the plate before, do it now.  Your old mount should now be completely removed.

Depending on what shape box is installed in your wall already, you may need to pop out some of the "tabs" on the plate.  Then, assemble  the fixture as it will be on the wall.

 FIRST - twist together the white wires and top off with the screw cap.

Second, screw together the black wires and top off with a screw cap.  Third, twist together the grounding wires. I made a little video for you but it's not working very well so I have two screen grabs above for you.  It is similar to removing an existing fixture except for the order.

Once you have connected all the wires from the wall box to the new fixture, it's time to attach the plate of the new fixture to the wall.

Push the wires into the box, and screw on the plate.

Loosen up the ground screw and twist the grounding wire around the screw.  Retighten the screw.

Place the new fixture on the plate - lining up the screw holes on the top and bottom of the fixture to the holes in the plate.

Tighten the screws so the fixture holds firm and flush against the wall.

That wasn't hard was it?

Now we just need to paint - and maybe get some matching lightbulbs...

I hope this has inspired you to take on a little DIY project and swap out any fixtures that need to go!

disclosure: I received the light fixtures as a sample from Westside Wholesale

Industrial Eye Candy - using just a dash or go all out

FREE IMAGES Spring is the time for cleaning out our homes and bringing in new fresh design. It's all the season of yard sales, festivals, and fairs which can bring some seriously great finds for your home! Here are a few ideas of what you can do with those industrial style finds:

via funkyjunkinteriors

I love the industrial style shelving here, even if you can only find the pipes there are plenty of tutorials on how to create your own shelving with them!

via Pinterest via A Passion for  Beautiful Things

via bhg

It could be something as simple as a light fixture that gives you a little extra in a room or some great baskets to use on open shelving. 

via Pinterest via Stroll Without Shoes

via Pinterest via Tidbitsandwinde.com

The great thing about industrial finds is that they are great for mixing and matching. You don't necessarily need to have an industrial theme in order to make a piece fit into your decor. It can stand on it's own and look amazing. 

Chic and beautiful lighting

FREE IMAGES I am a sucker for a beautiful lighting fixture but am always very nervous when faced with having to commit to one.  There are so many and most cost a pretty penny, so I'm always worried I will regret a very expensive decision.  So ever since we moved into our new home in June I have been gathering inspiration for when we are ready to change our lighting (which is high on my priority list)  I've decided that to build my confidence, I am going to start with changing out the hallway light fixtures since they will be smaller and less expensive than a chandelier for above our dining room table or a pendant for the master bedroom. Although it might not seem that big of a deal, hallways are one of the most used light fixtures in a home and are often left on, so they shouldn't be neglected.

It's important when changing out something that's going to be around for a while, especially if you have a small budget like us, to think about the style and decor of the rest of your home so that they tie into the design you've already started or will work if you decide to change your flooring, wall color, etc.

via belgianpearls

Something a little more elegant and classy is a much better fit for this space. The mix of modern and historical is great match for the rest of the home decor. If the light fixtures were any more traditional and flashy than these I probably wouldn't like the space as much.

via ruemag

Something more artsy and eccentric stands out in this space but still fits in with the theme of the home. This is a great example of having something that catches your eye but doesn't take away from the space.

via georgiandesign

Mixing and matching may be the best idea for hallways that are connecting multiple rooms. This works well with eclectic styles but if done correctly you can mix and match any type of home decor style. Keeping the light fixtures in the same family or "collection" but in different styles is the best way to achieve this.

via Margot Austin
I'm really loving the look of drum style pendant lights in the hall.  The slim console with a lamp is a nice touch and adds a cozy feel.

via Arcadian Home
Again, really liking the drum style pendants.  If you can manage, space ceiling fixtures about 8 to 10 feet apart in a hallway.