It’s Mike again and it’s already May — time is flying by! We are sharing some of the top requested on-trend electrical design upgrades so far this year.
Simple Mood Enhancing Upgrades
When it comes to trends in electrical design, we’re definitely seeing a shift. Out in the field, homeowners are actively choosing to modernize their lighting, and they’re sharing moody reasons for these updates. Many are trying to influence the feeling in their homes with strategic lighting choices based on design (simple and modern), location, brightness, dimmers, matching metals — there are so many fixture options on the market. We are installing mostly white or gold finishes with minimalist designs.
Along those same mood enhancing lines, another trend we are seeing is the installation of cold plunge pools, often equipped with coolers (that is where the electrical comes in). My customers tell me that cold water immersion has been associated with several potential mental health benefits.
Most Requested Design Focused Upgrades This Year
As 2024 unfolded, here is what we noticed to be really catching the eyes of homeowners, especially when it comes to style and practicality. Here are the top five upgrades that our team has been busy installing around San Diego:
LED Backlit Mirrors — These not only illuminate but also add a luxurious feel to bathrooms, making daily routines a bit more special.
LED Flush Ceiling Lighting — Ideal for achieving a clean and contemporary look, these fixtures provide excellent illumination while keeping ceiling lines smooth and unobtrusive.
LED Low Profile Garage Lighting — With garages often serving multiple purposes, efficient and robust lighting is essential for transforming these spaces into practical work areas.
Ceiling Fan Upgrades — The latest in ceiling fan technology not only improves energy efficiency but also fits beautifully into modern home decor.
Wall Sconces — Increasingly used for both their decorative and practical lighting benefits, wall sconces enhance the ambiance and functionality of a space. Most installations this year are purely for decorative mood lighting — above the bed, entryways, and above fireplaces.
Choosing the Perfect White Light: Understanding the K Rating from 2500K to 5000K
Our team often educates homeowners about the importance of choosing the right color temperature for their lighting. The color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K), affects the mood and usability of each room. Lower Kelvin numbers produce a warmer, amber glow perfect for cozy areas like bedrooms and living rooms. In contrast, higher Kelvin numbers create a cooler, more daylight-like appearance suitable for kitchens and home offices.
Understanding the distinction between light color (K-Rating) and brightness (measured in lumens) is crucial. While color temperature influences the light’s color and ambiance, brightness determines how much light the bulb emits. Choosing the correct combination based on room function and desired atmosphere is essential for achieving both aesthetic and functional goals.
We created a handy video to help homeowners make the right choice:
With every LED we install and every smart outlet we integrate, we’re not just modernizing your home — we’re enhancing your living spaces for a bright, efficient future. Let’s illuminate the possibilities, San Diego.
Speaking of design — thank you for voting for Raceway Electric & Solar. We are honored to be the San Diego Magazine Home + Design Awards, Home Services, Best Electrician!
Cheers, Mike
#ItsGoodToKnowASparky