I am thrilled! The renovation of the Smith’s Mediterranean mansion is starting soon. I feel like I’ve been talking about it forever. The DA was approved in early 2015 and after waiting since then for my favourite Sydney builder to become available, we’ve finally made our way up the queue and we are next on the list. Fingers crossed for good weather and no more hold-ups.
So today, in preparation for the builders to start, I took out my architectural plans and drew an electrical plan i.e. where I want all of my power points, light switches and lighting to go. Every single one.
In my head, I slowly walked through the house and room-by-room, planned where every item of furniture will be placed and sketched them in. Now I know exactly what items I will keep and what I will sell, up-cycle or throw out. Today I looked closely at ceiling heights, what type of lighting will go in every room, how much light is required in particular areas e.g. above the kitchen preparation areas or in the study.
Getting down to that level of detail and knowing exactly what design style the house will be transformed into means that I can start shopping NOW!!
It’s perfect timing to take advantage of the end of financial year sales, like the one being promoted by Urban Lighting starting this Friday 24th June to Sunday 26th June. So I am putting together my list of lighting ‘must haves’:
The first of my ‘must haves’ is pendant style bedside lighting in the master bedroom, which will hang from the ceiling on either side of the bed like this Atrium Pendant
The second is an eye-catching fan for the family room and one for the alfresco area, which are next to each other. The range from Urban Lighting is amazing but my favourite is the Industrie ii It’s very stylish and perfect for these 2 large areas.
Third is a statement light in the games room. I have just fallen in love with this Osteria Pendant light. The warmth of the metal, the practicality of the light it provides and the traditional look will be great hanging over the pool table. The boys will have no excuses in missing a shot!
I am also choosing outside lights, specifically 2 for either side of the front door. As you know, Belinda and I are firm believers that first impressions count and that every front entryway deserves beautiful lighting!
I have been told that the Urban Lighting Annandale store (145 Parramatta Rd Annandale NSW) is holding a sale where all display pendants, shades, table lamps and floor lamps are half price and new issue orders are 20% off. I’ll be heading there this weekend to see what I can pick up.
Getting my renovation dollar to stretch further means being on the lookout for good deals before the building starts and while stores are running specials.
I know that builders love it when clients are organised, decisive on their design style and have sourced fixtures and fittings ready for installation, so they are never held up waiting during the building process. So, I need to start getting organised now.
*SP. This post was written by me in collaboration and supported by Urban Lighting. Belinda and I will only ever stand by products that we personally approve of and tell you about things which we think will be of value to you
Remember, loving life begins at home – Belinda Smith