Style Illuminated

When was the last time you went to the planetarium? Now you can enjoy the atmosphere at home without the Pink Floyd and neck ache.

Introducing the energy efficient Planetarium Pendant Light whose bold looks were inspired by the shape of a planetarium viewing dome.

And just in case this post got you fired up for a field trip to the planetarium, check out this international list of the world's planetariums.

We liked the red mini accent table lamp that we recently posted about so much (see A Red Mini with Big Style) that we've added two new colors: a Black Mini Gourd Table Lamp and a White Mini Gourd Table Lamp.

Both are big on style, light on the pocket-book and great for bedrooms or side accent tables. I think I'm leaning towards the white!

We love the Mighty Bright line of handy little lights and magnifying glasses. We've recently added more of their products, and you'll find everything from LED clip-on lights, to lighted magnifying glasses, to travel reading lights.

They're super-compact and adjustable, and the LEDs never need changing. Plus, they come in a range of fun colors.

See all the Mighty Bright LED book lights or browse our entire book lights selection.

We just added a great collection of pineapple table lamps. Out of curiousity, I learned we have nearly 100 pineapple-themed items on our site. And Google returns nearly 60,000 results for "pineapple table lamp"!

I had to ask, "Why pineapples?" Turns out there's a rich history behind this common decor theme.

Columbus and his crew were the first to taste the fabulous fruit when they landed in the Caribbean. It quickly became a delicacy in the old world due to the difficulty of transporting it back home.

In Colonial America, pineapples were still a rare treat. Only the most wealthy and well-connected could offer dinner guests this highly regarded fruit. The pineapple soon symbolized status and hospitality becoming a favorite motif for artisans and architects.

Now that you know, highlight the hospitality of your home with one of our new solid brass pineapple table lamps. And browse our other pineapple-themed items.

Read a more complete pineapple history here.

Network ABC has announced the line-up for this season's Dancing With the Stars and supermodel, super-designer Kathy Ireland is among them. Other stars include Donny Osmond, singer Macy Gray, former Dallas Cowboy Michael Irvin and actresses Melissa Joan Hart. Tune in for all the fun starting September 21st.

Read all about it on CNN: 'Dancing With the Stars' announces new lineup

Check out Kathy's newest lighting designs,Kathy Ireland lighting collection, or view the line of Kathy Ireland air purifiers.

Lighting a room for home theater use can be challenging since you want some light but indirectly so it won't interfere with the light of the screen.

Sconces are a great solution. You can either use low wattage bulbs or, even better, install a dimmer switch. You'll be able to move around the room and avoid straining your eyes.

View more options by browsing our collection of home theater sconces. If sconces don't work for your home entertainment space then try our broader assortment of home theater lighting for ideas.

Reader's Digest recently posted 10 tips for saving money on your home remodel. In addition to good advice like installing energy efficient features and planning ahead for future upgrades, we like tip #10:

10. Order over the Internet
Can't find a nice-looking low-voltage light fixture at a nearby home center? The Internet puts a wide selection of products at your fingertips. Even better, it gives you access to hard-to-find specialty items at competitive prices. Often you can save 40 to 50 percent over the list price.

We couldn't agree more! LampsPlus.com offers unmatched quality and value and a huge selection. Plus, visit our Open Box Outlet site for extra deep discounts.

Read the rest of the tips from Reader's Digest, and then head over to LampsPlusOpenBox.com for one-of-a-kind deals.

In addition to being long-lasting and energy efficient, LEDs can clearly be considered cool. Check out this incredible interactive installation illuminating a sidewalk in Montreal. We offer a large selection of progressive products with energy-sipping LED technology. Learn more about our LED products here.

For more LEDs in action, don't miss John's recent post about the new bridge in Minneapolis.

Nothing breathes life into a space like greenery! The Kathy Ireland Home Collection now includes a range of gorgeous potted floral arrangements including stunning species like amaryllis, callas, colorful orchids, Phoenix palms and more.

Hand-crafted with premium materials, these high-quality faux florals will enhance your home for years to come. See the new Kathy Ireland greenery and florals now!

One of the most respected names in the lighting industry, Minka-Lavery is part of the Minka Group of companies (which also includes Minka Aire ceiling fans). The Minka-Lavery lighting collection centers on ceiling lighting and wall lights featuring strong, elegant designs. We spoke with company rep Tim Titus about the company's line and some of their new designs.

Q: Minka-Lavery product is known for its exciting finishes and details. Describe some of the workmanship that Minka-Lavery offers. 

A: At Minka Lavery, we've long taken a leadership role in exploring multi-step finish accents. For example, we are very proud of our hand-applied finish process. The process accentuates a base color with subtle highlights and accents. We then customize unique glass treatments for each and every fixture to complete the look.

Q: What’s a hot look for you right now in home lighting?

A: We are finding that design styles are trending towards clean, transitional lines. This is accomplished with sophisticated, delicate lines accentuated by graceful transitions and soft silhouettes. While dark finishes dominate our offerings, we see a trend towards lighter, more subtle styles.

Q: Which of your new designs do you think captures this look?

A: The trend toward graceful lines and clean profiles can be seen in pieces from the Knotted Iron collection.  The Aston Court ceiling light designs are a good example of the lighter, more graceful styles customers are looking for.

Q: What’s next for the Minka Lavery lighting collection? 

A: At Minka Lavery, we continue to challenge our design team to be imaginative and creative. We are dedicated to listening to our customer's wishes for cutting edge design with unique and artful finishes that compliment today's homes. Look for more innovative transitional designs, as well as energy efficient looks from us in the near future!

Thanks, Tim! View more designs by browsing our collection of Minka Lavery lighting.