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Archive for July, 2017

Bring the Outside Indoors With Houseboat Lighting

Monday, July 17th, 2017

There are so many challenges when living, working, playing — and partying — on a houseboat. Whether you’re sailing the high seas or stationed on a non-cruising variety, a floating home forces you to become clever when choosing the right furnishings and décor. In particular, lighting presents a whole slew of problems to contend with.

If you’re entertaining family or friends this season, be sure to think about lighting and its importance. If you plan to be aboard at night, consider revamping your current lighting fixtures for maximum impact and efficiency.

Here’s how you can bring the outdoors inside with premium houseboat lighting.

1. Flushmount lights are all the fashion.

Since room is always a concern on houseboats, you don’t want clunky floor lamps, bulky table lamps or oversized chandeliers eating up precious elbow space. Save room for your other everyday essentials by opting for overhead flushmount lights in a variety of decorative styles.

Unlike the typical recessed or overhead light, these fixtures come with subtle flair sure to complement your current décor motif. For instance, a nautical-inspired flushmount will illuminate the space greatly — but it also adds whimsical elegance with its ship’s wheel ornamentation. Imagine a few of these sprinkled throughout the space and the distinctive sense of design they might bring.

2. Seafaring sconces always shine bright.

If space preservation is your goal, then you’ll definitely want to go the discreet route when it comes to the silhouette of your lighting. Avoid table lamps with huge bases, and opt for fixtures that can be mounted either on the ceiling or on the wall. To accompany your nautical overhead lighting, keep the marine theme going with some quality outdoor nautical sconces.

Finished in classic brushed silver or bronze, these antique-inspired pieces work just as well indoors as they do outside. A shore-themed sconce is an ideal way to capture that quaint charm of a fisherman’s wharf or a lighthouse-keeper’s lodge. Envision a few sconces mounted above your boat’s deck entranceway or placed on a prominent wall inside as a fabulous focal point.

3. Battery-powered is the new black

We always assume that electricity is an absolute necessity. Illuminating the dark recesses of a tight area is nearly impossible on the water where light comes from the moon and stars alone. But who said you need to shine a spotlight on the space? Think more modestly, and consider an easy, low-maintenance accent piece in the form of a battery-powered piece of LED wall décor.

Requiring just a couple of AA batteries, a stunning metal anchor light offers endless style while still supplying a sensational glow throughout the room. These sculptural treasures come in a variety of shapes and symbols — from stars to seahorses and beyond, so pick one to match your design motif. Best of all, this kind of décor doesn’t need an electrical hookup. Just flip the attached switch, and you’ve got a magnificent marquee to dazzle guests.

4. An amazing option? Go antique.

When renovating or refurbishing our houseboats, we’re often inclined to embrace modern conveniences. Sleek lines and funky profiles are all the rage. But in the world of the marina, vintage charm is much more compelling. Transport your family and friends to a bygone era, a time when the nautical lifestyle was as romantic as it was adventurous. On a more functional level, an antique pendant light is also a quick way to gain much-needed light.

A rustic nautical light hangs like the crown jewel of your cruise ship. With its weathered exterior and classic lantern-style look, there’s no denying its immense personality and appeal. Picture a pendant illuminating the area above your galley countertop or giving you just the right amount of light to quietly read a book in the stateroom.

5. Individuality is the key to incredible illumination!

When decorating your houseboat, don’t get tangled up in the net of practicality. Remember that this is your space. Your home. Your pride and joy. Choose lighting that perfectly reflects your unique personality. Whether it’s a fun bobber light fixture or an elegant chandelier, it’s all about the experience.

Think you’ve got enough light to guide the ship in this season? Enjoy your on-deck decorating adventures, and make the most of all your houseboat expeditions!