Style Illuminated

The number one request at IBS this year was for LED bulbs and fixtures. This cost-conscious environment is making the energy-efficient LED even more appealing.

Builders and remodelers are searching for the latest technology and the best light output. As manufacturers rush to meet this demand, we should see more options come on the market. The dimmability and long life-span of LEDs ensure that they're here to stay.

We just added a fabulous new selection of contemporary clocks, with wall clock and desk clock designs. Turn back time with these retro designs that offer the best in mid-century modern chic. Which look strikes your fancy?

The American Lighting Association and Fanimation ceiling fans have posted a YouTube video interview with Fanimation's national sales manager Tom Underwood. In the video, Tom talks about the company's history and highlights designs from their line of ceiling fans like fans with palm leaf blades. Click on the video below to view. Fanimation ceiling fans.

Cedar chests are classic furniture pieces, but their beauty is more than skin deep. Cedar wood, and more specifically its oil, can protect clothes and bedding from the dreaded clothing moth.

Moths avoid cedar oil, especially that of Eastern red cedar (aka aromatic cedar). Cedar also absorbs moisture, creating a less-than-ideal environment for moth larvae. Cedar imparts a hint of its wonderful fragrance on clothes for an added bonus.

Cedar chests are particularly useful for storing bedding and seasonal clothes. Moths particularly enjoy wool fibers, so wool sweaters should be protected, too.

See our collection of cedar chests right here. These chests are beautiful -- and functional! -- furniture.

Happy birthday Aquarius! Now through mid-February is party time for our visionary friends (this blogger included!). The original Aquarian was Ganymede, a fetching young Trojan prince who caught the eye of Zeus. The king of gods made Ganymede royal cup-bearer. In that spirit, let us fill your cup with birthday gift ideas for the Aquarian in your life.

Dear Aquarius: Sure, many astrologers agree that you have a "look of nobility suggestive of the classic Greek or Roman models." Yes, yes, you've mentioned more than a few times astrologers also agree Aquarians are "considered stunning individuals." This month, set aside your striking good-looks for just a moment and put your innovative abilities to good use. This credit crisis thing is a real bummer, and we could use some original ideas. Got anything?

Aquarius is blessed with objectivity, the ability to see both sides of an argument. For example, I'm ready to turn in and my wife wants to read. What if we each had our own reading light? Bingo! Thank you George Kovacs!

Birthstones for Aquarians are garnet (January) and amethyst (February). Garnet is hard to pin down since it comes in a bunch of colors. So, let's go with this contemporary mini pendant light with hand-crafted amethyst colored glass.

Aquarius has a tendency to be conceited. Lest we judge, recall that visionary thinkers years ahead of their time are often misunderstood. Still, grab your favorite Aquarius this mirror so they'll always look their best. The charming rose motif may remind them to see beauty elsewhere.

Next month ... gentle, good-natured Pisces!

The AP published a wonderful article yesterday about how designers are embracing decor aimed at children. "Designers of kids' furniture are letting their imaginations run away with them, and that's great news for hip parents looking for fun, exuberant decor." Read the entire article here at MSNBC: current trends in children's furniture. The article mentions two imaginative pendant light designs featured at LAMPS PLUS, the Prop Plane Pendant and the Planet and Stars Pendant.

Let your inner designer shine! These excellent chairs come to life when paired with specially tailored slipcovers.

We're now offering the sleek, smart, and comfortable Parsons Armless Dining Chairs in a set of two. The fun starts when you take your pick from our large selection of slipcovers designed specifically for the Parsons chair. The slipcovers fit so well, it's like custom upholstery.

The affordable covers are easily exchangeable, so you can swap out your look for special occasions and holidays. Which one is your favorite??

Our friend in Northern California recently updated his cabin with these beautiful Mission Copper Outdoor Lights.

The classic Arts and Crafts design elements and the hanging lantern look go well with the wooded, outdoor setting. And the lights cast a warm glow against all the snow they've had lately. A beautiful Christmas day photo. Nice job, Doug!

Popular Mechanics magazine reports on how to keep your CFL bulbs working at their peak performance level. One interesting idea: leave them running. "The more continuous the use of a bulb, the longer it’ll burn because the most damage to the components is done during starts," says Russ Leslie, associate director of the Lighting Research Center." Read more: When CFLs Fail: How to Keep Your Compact Fluorescent Glowing.    

The AFC and NFC Playoff Championship games are this Sunday. Just in time, we've got official NFL team bedrest pillows so you can cheer on your team in style. Get comfortable this Sunday as the Ravens battle the Steelers and the Cardinals take on the Eagles.

If your team bounced out a little early, get ready for next year with our selection of NFL team pillows. And for you NCAA fans, we have college sports team pillows, too!

Post Update 2-1-10: We're sorry, but these items are currently sold out! We'll leave another update if we get them back in stock. Thanks!