Don't underestimate the importance of quality tools when you're working on projects, whether at home or on a jobsite. One of the handiest tools to have at your disposal is a fantastic table saw. With so many options on the market, how do you separate the best from those that clearly don't make the cut? You turn to the experts. Here are the picks reviewers have rated as tops.
Best Overall: DEWALT DW7440RS Rolling Saw Stand with 10-Inch Compact Job Site Table Saw
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
For a table saw that goes anywhere, the DEWALT DW7440RS Rolling Saw Stand with 10-Inch Compact Job Site Table Saw is a helpful combo that you'll use again and again. The removable stand gives you the ability to transport it easily and use it on a table or on the stand itself. Eighty five percent or reviewers give this saw five stars for its easy setup, solid performance, and space saving footprint.
Best Value: SKIL 3410-02 10-Inch Table Saw with Folding Stand
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
If you're looking for a heavy duty table saw at a price that's light on your wallet, look no further than the SKIL 3410-02 10-Inch Table Saw with Folding Stand. According to reviews this "well engineered and quite sturdy" saw has "plenty of power" and is a "great value" whether working on DIY projects or professional jobs. Its ingenuity was also praised: "The twin tab and dual toggle method of mounting the saw to the stand is near genius."
Best For Easy Portability: Bosch 10-Inch Portable Jobsite Table Saw GTS1031 with One-Handed Carry Handle
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
When you're hauling a heavy saw from the truck or the storage shed and back again, totebility is an much appreciated feature. The Bosch 10-Inch Portable Jobsite Table Saw GTS1031 with One-Handed Carry Handle is a sturdy choice that's flexible enough to tackle any job. Consumers love that "it's very compact and easy to transport" thanks to the thoughtful way accessories attach underneath, calling it "the perfect blend of performance and size."
Best Small Tabletop Saw: DEWALT 10-Inch Table Saw, 16-Inch Rip Capacity
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
You don't have to sacrifice quality for size when buying a small tabletop saw. The DEWALT 10-Inch Table Saw, 16-Inch Rip Capacity is a powerful machine in a scaled-down package. It's lightweight, yet you can count on it for versatility. Seventy-eight percent of reviewers give this saw five stars for how hard it works while weighing a fraction of the size of other saws.
Best Heavy Duty Portable Saw: SKILSAW 10 in. Heavy-Duty Worm Drive Table Saw 15 Amp Corded Electric with Stand and Diablo Blade
Photo Courtesy: Home Depot
Best For Home Projects: Rockwell BladeRunner X2 Portable Tabletop Saw
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
If you're working on projects at home, a professional quality saw can seem like overkill. The Rockwell BladeRunner X2 Portable Tabletop Saw is a portable table saw that works well for small home projects. It's compact and comes with a set of helpful accessories that make home improvement easier. Reviewers appreciate the versatility and quality of this small but mighty machine, especially those with just a garage shelf for storage. "If I could give it 6 stars I would," praised one reviewer.
Best Adjustable Guard: Dewalt 15-Amp Corded 10 in. Compact Job Site Table Saw with Site-Pro Modular Guarding System
Photo Courtesy: Home Depot
The convenience of an adjustable guard makes the Dewalt 15-Amp Corded 10 in. Compact Job Site Table Saw with Site-Pro Modular Guarding System a worthwhile choice. With power and versatility to spare, its modular guard system gives you more freedom to measure and adjust. Over 800 reviewers bestowed five stars on this well-designed choice, praising its accuracy and performance, especially for weekend DIYers and others who need something lightweight and easy to store.
Best Cordless: Milwaukee M18 FUEL ONE-KEY 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 8-1/4 in. Table Saw Kit
Photo Courtesy: Home Depot
Best For Easy Setup: RIDGID 15 Amp Corded 10 in. Heavy-Duty Portable Table Saw with Stand
Photo Courtesy: Home Depot
On the jobsite, speed and efficiency matter. You don't want to waste time setting up tools, which makes the RIDGID 15 Amp Corded 10 in. Heavy-Duty Portable Table Saw with Stand a smart (and speedy) choice. It does everything you expect from quality machine, but you can set it up in a fraction of the time. Reviewers love the size and easy use of this saw, as well.
Best Professional Quality: RIDGID 13 Amp 10 in. Professional Cast Iron Table Saw
Photo Courtesy: Home Depot
If solid performance is important to you, you'll appreciate the RIDGID 13 Amp 10 in. Professional Cast Iron Table Saw. This table saw is in a higher price range, but it works well on a job-site and is sturdy enough to last for years. Over 700 reviewers give this table saw five stars for dependability, power, and sturdy strength. "Well worth the money," said one user, a sentiment also echoed by more than a few reviewers.
Advertiser Disclosure: When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Ercol Romana sideboard, £1,100; Romana table, £1,268; Originals butterfly chair, £375, Originals all purpose chair, £280; Furniture Village
Seat everyone in style and comfort with this guide to selecting the best dining table for your space.
SHAPE MATTERS
Circular tables are good for conversation and feel more inclusive, making it easier to talk not just to your immediate neighbours but everyone. Square and rectangular tables will line up neatly with other furniture and can be pushed against the wall if you need space, for a party, for example.
Image: Getty
SIZE IT UP
As a rule of thumb, a square table measuring 90cm x 90cm, or a 90cm diameter circular one, will seat four people snugly. For six people, a rectangular 150cm x 90cm table, or a circular 130cm diameter design will work. For eight people, allow a table of 200cm x 100cm, or 150cm diameter.
Get the right size of table for the space. When you've found a table you like, and before you buy, check if it will work in your space. Cut and stick together sheets of newspaper to the size of your table, and lay the template on the floor to give you a sense of how it will fit. Remember you'll need around 60-90cm from the table edge to the nearest wall/piece of furniture, and if you can spare 100cm there will be even more room for people to walk behind seated diners.
Consider tables that can be extended if you like to have a big crowd over. Gateleg tables, which have a flap or flaps that fold down, are perfect for compact rooms. Check that there's enough space when at its maximum size.
Image: Getty
TWICE THE VALUE
If your table will double as an eating and working space, you'll need one with a practical, hardwearing surface. For instance, a design with a top that can be re-oiled or painted would be better than a lacquered one.
Melbury dining table, £999; pair of Castleton oak chairs in Natural, £349; Burleston Dresser, £629; all Homebase
Words: Caroline Rodrigues
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The Peninsula and South Bay restaurant scenes are humming again, with numerous businesses opening their doors there in recent weeks.
They are exciting developments for local diners and for the Bay Area at large. A more casual Santa Clara restaurant from the family behind San Francisco Vietnamese restaurant Thanh Long means denizens of the Peninsula no longer have to drive north for those legendary garlic noodles. Meanwhile, Xanh Restaurant, long a popular draw in downtown Mountain View, has reopened after a year-plus pandemic closure. And several chains, from a Seattle dumpling specialist to a local Sicilian pizza franchise, have made their debuts.
Read on for more on each opening.
S.F.'s famed Thanh Long opens casual spin-off in Santa Clara
The dining room and open kitchen at AnQi Shaken and Stirred in Santa Clara, a new restaurant from the family behind San Francisco's Thanh Long.
Kenneth Lew
The team behind San Francisco Vietnamese favorite Thanh Long has brought their iconic garlic noodles to the South Bay. Their more casual restaurant, AnQi Shaken and Stirred, is now open inside a Bloomingdale's at Westfield Valley Fair in Santa Clara.
AnQi Shaken and Stirred serves the greatest hits from Thanh Long, which Helene An opened in 1975, including those famous noodles, An's garlic rice and shaken beef. There are also garlic chicken wings, bulgogi "nachos" (fried wonton wrappers topped with beef, kimchi and white cheddar cheese) and lychee martinis. AnQi will offer happy-hour and late-night dining once public health restrictions ease.
"We always wanted to come to the South Bay," said Kenneth Lew, An's son-in-law. "We're hoping to do something fun and different but also bring what we're known for."
The family opened the first AnQi inside a Bloomingdale's at a Southern California shopping center, so when they were approached about the Westfield opportunity, it made sense for them. They also operate two Crustacean restaurants on Polk Street in San Francisco and Beverly Hills. The San Francisco location will soon be moving to a new home in the Financial District, Lew said.
An, 78, is still heavily involved, working with the chefs at each restaurant to develop the menus.
"She's 78 but she's still putting in a lot of hours," Lew said.
Takeout and indoor dining. Noon-7 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. 2847 Stevens Creek Blvd., Santa Clara.anqisns.com/
Contemporary Vietnamese restaurant returns to Mountain View
Xanh Restaurant in downtown Mountain View has been dark since the pandemic hit more than a year ago, sparking rumors that it had closed permanently. But the longtime modern Vietnamese restaurant reopened over the weekend.
Xanh was long known for its contemporary Vietnamese and fusion food, clubby atmosphere and generous lunch buffets. Xanh 2.0, however, is serving a pared down menu of the restaurant's greatest hits, plus some new dishes, like Wagyu short ribs and oxtail congee, said owner Stephanie, who asked to be identified by her first name only. Due to the coronavirus, the buffet is no longer, but they plan to try out a dim sum-style service with small dishes for Mother's Day, May 9. If it goes well, Xanh will continue to offer that on weekends, she said.
Xanh will be open for dinner only on weekends for now. The owner is eager for feedback from customers and is open to adjusting the menu. A new chef is in the kitchen but has been trained on all the old Xanh recipes, she said, and is willing to accommodate requests — including for a customer this weekend who was craving a happy hour crab starter from the previous menu.
Thuy Pham and her daughter, Amanda Pham-Huynh, opened Xanh in 2006; it's now under new ownership.
Limited indoor and outdoor dining. Call 650-964-1888 for current hours and reservations. 110 Castro St., Mountain View. xanhrestaurant.com
Seattle dumpling chain brings XLB and lines to San Mateo
The first California location of Dough Zone, a Seattle-born dumpling chain that specializes in xiao long bao and sheng jian bao, opened May 1 in downtown San Mateo.
People quickly lined up over the weekend for Dough Zone's signature xiao long bao — often compared to the famed Din Tai Fung's — and plump, pan-fried sheng jian bao, which are made from a secret, patented recipe. Dough Zone serves two kinds of xiao long bao, one filled with Berkshire-Duroc pork and crab and the other with chicken. The rest of the menu is largely the same as the Seattle original, with other kinds of dumplings and dishes like dan dan noodles, green onion pancakes and beef noodle soup.
Dough Zone first opened in Seattle in 2014 and now operates seven locations there. A Dough Zone is also opening in Cupertino this summer.
Takeout and indoor dining. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. 11 E. Fourth Ave., San Mateo. doughzonedumplinghouse.com
Farmers' market bánh mì favorite expands in Palo Alto
Fans of Chez Eatery's bánh mì stand at the California Avenue Farmers' Market in Palo Alto on Sundays now have a more regular way to get their fix. The restaurant is offering curbside pickup of sandwiches during the week outside the La Jolie nail spa at 364 S. California Ave. (where the market stand is located on Sundays) under the name Bread Apeel.
The menu includes their classic bánh mì with ham and pâté, plus pork belly, fried tofu, shredded roasted chicken and tri-tip steak versions, all served on fresh-baked demi baguettes. New on the pickup menu are several salads, including shaking beef over mixed greens with avocados, tomatoes and red onions; and marinated tofu with baby kale, arugula, cabbage, carrots, buckwheat noodles, toasted quinoa and millet tossed in a miso vinaigrette.
Takeout only. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday. 364 S. California Ave., Palo Alto. breadapeel.com
Lanzhou Hand Pulled Noodle opens second location in Cupertino
A second location of Lanzhou Hand Pulled Noodle in Milpitas is now open in Cupertino. As the name implies, the restaurant specializes in hand-pulled, chewy noodles served in bowls of clear beef broth cooked over 10 hours with as many as 20 spices. The dish hails from Lanzhou, the capital of China's Gansu province, and was reportedly invented by Mao Baozi during the Qing Dynasty, according to a noodle history written on the restaurant's walls.
Customers can also customize their own hand-pulled noodle bowls, choosing their preferred noodle thickness — from "small round" to "thick belt" — spice level and toppings. The menu also includes dry noodle dishes, basil popcorn chicken, dumplings and other fare.
The Cupertino restaurant isn't open yet for indoor dining, but you can catch glimpses of cooks kneading and pulling dough in the kitchen when picking up noodles to go.
Takeout, delivery and limited outdoor dining. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Closed Wednesday.10745 S. De Anza Blvd., Cupertino. lanzhouhandpullednoodle.com
Fast-growing S.F. pizza shop opens in San Mateo
Slices, newly open in San Mateo, serves square, Sicilian-style pizzas.
Tony Riviera
A San Francisco-born pizza franchise is expanding rapidly, with its first location newly open on the Peninsula and many more on the way.
Slices opened in April at the Bay Meadows development in San Mateo. The casual restaurant serves square Sicilian-style pizzas made with 00 flour, tomatoes and olive oil imported from Italy, such as the margherita with whole milk mozzarella, house-made red sauce, basil and marinated cherry tomatoes. Other pizzas are topped with pepperoni, Italian sausage, broccolini, smoked brisket or their take on the Hawaiian, which has prosciutto with pineapple and jalapeños. The pizzas, available by the slice or whole, are baked in custom black steel pans from Italy. Slices also serves Italian sub sandwiches, cheese lasagna and Sicilian meatballs.
Tony Riviera, a native of Brooklyn, N.Y., who opened the first Slices in San Francisco in 2018, said Slices was born out of a desire to bring high-quality Sicilian pizza to the masses. The pizzas start with a 72-hour fermentation on the dough to create a light pizza with a super-crispy crust. They're slightly thinner than a typical Sicilian pie, Riviera said, but hold up to toppings.
There are now Slices locations in Southern California, Dallas and Seattle. Riviera plans to open four more outposts in San Francisco in the next year and a half, including in Mission Bay, as well as in San Jose. The local growth is part of an ambitious expansion plan to open 500 national Slices over the next five years.
Takeout, delivery and indoor and outdoor dining. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 3035 S. Delaware St., Suite C, San Mateo. slicesusa.com/
S.F. sandwich favorite Lou's Cafe arrives on the Peninsula
San Francisco sandwich standby Lou's Cafe recently opened its first Peninsula location in downtown San Carlos. The new outpost largely serves the same menu, with sandwiches like the Ami-cado (pastrami, salami, avocado, pepper jack cheese and Lou's "special sauce," a garlic aioli spread) and a roast beef sandwich with extra-hot horseradish on Dutch crunch bread. There are also several breakfast sandwiches, salads and soups.
Takeout, delivery and indoor dining. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday 902 Laurel St., San Carlos. louscafesf.com/
Elena Kadvany is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: elena.kadvany@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: ekadvany
Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. More about us.
Shopping Guide: Windsor Chairs
The iconic country chair gets a spiffy update in unexpected shapes and shades.
Courtesy of Manufacturer
The iconic country chair gets a spiffy update in unexpected shapes and shades.
1 of 7
Fanciful
Alice in Wonderland would feel right at home in Paola Navone's sweet beech design.
($399; 33"W x 42½"H x 26½"D; crateandbarrel.com)
2 of 7
Vintage
Hay of Denmark just reissued this handsome beech chair, which debuted in the 1960s.
($217; 17"W x 31"H x 14"D; themodernshop.ca)
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Eco-Friendly
This beauty is crafted from American black walnut and beech certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.
($585; 24"W x 33.5"H x 21.5"D; organicmodernism.com for stores)
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Bargain
This affordable beech version comes in seven hues—including yellow, aqua, gray, and coral.
($158; 17½"W x 33½"H x 19"D; serenaandlily.com)
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Metal
Designed to be used indoors or out, Terrain's armchair wears a bright zinc finish.
($298; 21"W x 40"H x 24¾"D; shopterrain.com)
6 of 7
High-Back
A tall, tapered profile gives West Elm's seat retro-modern appeal.
($299; 21½"W x 45"H x 24½"D; westelm.com)
7 of 7
Arm Rests
Made in weathered oak, this farmhouse-style arm chair offers a rustic and traditional vibe.
($140.49; 23.5"W x 40.75" H x 23.5" D; wayfair.com)
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14 types of ceiling lights explained here plus access to the best ceiling deals from online ceiling light stores.
Table of Contents
Ceiling Light Buying Guide
A. Ceiling Lights Mounted on The Ceiling
B. Hanging Ceiling Lights
C. Types Of Ceiling Lights By Material
Other Things To Consider
A. Dimmer Switches
B. Ceiling Fans
C. Light Bulbs
FAQ
Are ceiling lights easy to install?
Are LED ceiling lights dimmable?
What are flush-mounted ceiling lights?
What are recessed ceiling lights?
Can ceiling lights be used on walls?
Where to Buy Ceiling Lights Online
Ceiling Light Buying Guide
A light fixture can really make or break a room design. The right light fixture should match the size of the room, provide you with the kind of lighting you need and complement the other design elements.
Related: The Different Light Options
A. Ceiling Lights Mounted on The Ceiling
A ceiling light mounted flush to the ceiling or close to the ceiling is ideal for medium or large rooms or low ceilings. These fixtures are your best options if you need ambient light for an entire room.
1. Flush Lights
Source: The Home Depot
Flush fixtures are flat attachments mounted on your ceiling. This is a very versatile style, and you can easily find fixtures between 12 and 24" wide in function of the size of the room you are shopping for.
Small flush lights are ideal for a bathroom, a closet or a hallway. Larger flush fixtures are a safe option for a child's bedroom since there won't be anything hanging from the ceiling.
Flush light fixtures look best in rooms with a ceiling that is less than 8 feet high. Installing a flush light in a room with a higher ceiling might create too much empty space.
Flush ceiling lights are one of the most popular designs for light fixtures because it is discreet and provides optimal lighting for any room as long as you choose a fixture with a diameter that is wide enough and install a bulb that is bright enough.
2. Semi-flush Lights
Source: Lowes
This is another popular and versatile type of ceiling light fixture. Semi-flush lights typically hang 4 to 8" below the ceiling and look best if you have a ceiling between 8 and 10 feet high.
The main advantage of semi-flush lights is that changing a lightbulb is quick and easy. Semi-flush light fixtures are common in kitchens and small dining rooms, but you can make this style work in other areas. You can easily find semi-flush ceiling lights with a diameter between 7 and 23".
If you are hesitating between a flush and a semi-flush light fixture, there is one thing you should know. A flush light fixture will direct the light down to the room. A semi-flush light fixture will direct light down to the room and light up the ceiling at the same time. This will make a small room seem larger and your ceiling will seem higher.
3. Recessed Lights
Source: Wayfair
Some retailers call recessed lights pot or can lights. This type of light fixture is mounted inside of the ceiling and is probably your best choice if you have a room with a low ceiling.
You need to have at least 6" of clearance above your ceiling to install a recessed light. The light fixture sits inside of the ceiling and a glass panel diffuses the light inside of the room. There is trim around the glass panel and the result is very discreet.
Note that you need a ceiling with good insulation since humidity can build up inside of the light fixture.
The downside of recessed lights is that they do not diffuse light to an entire room. This type of ceiling light works best for ambient or task lighting.
www.dubaidesignweek.ae
Recessed lights require a more complex installation process compared to flush or semi-flush fixtures, but there are some things to say in favor of this design:
• You can find recessed lights with an eyeball trim. This feature allows you to direct the light on a wall to draw attention to artwork or to create optimal task lighting for your desk.
• You can direct a recessed light on an empty wall to reflect the light and make the entire room seem larger and brighter.
• This is a very discreet and efficient solution if you have a small room with a sloped ceiling.
• You can light up a large space or an entire room by installing several recessed lights in a row or in a square.
• Professional installation costs between $130 and $200 so this is still an affordable option even though installation is more complex than for a simple flush light.
4. Utility Lighting
Source: AceHardware
Are you looking for a no-frill light fixture for your garage, laundry room or basement? Shopping for utility lights is probably your best option.
Utility lights are either very simple fixtures mounted flush to the ceiling or casings for LED bulbs. This second option would be ideal for your garage workshop since you will need something brighter and more energy-efficient.
Utility lighting can seem like a small upgrade but it can really transform the way you use a space. If you often work on DIY projects in your garage, some LED bulbs will be a welcome addition.
5. LED indirect lighting
Source: Genkiwear
LED indirect lighting is an original take on ceiling lights. Instead of mounting a light fixture on your ceiling, this method consists in installed strips of LED lights around your ceiling.
Your ceiling will reflect light from the LED strips, which allows you to create the impression that the room is a lot larger. LED indirect lighting can change colors if you choose light-changing LEDs.
This type of ceiling light will work with a more modern style. LEDs are energy-efficient, and this is a fun DIY project that you can do for under $400 since LED lights are very affordable when you purchase them by the foot.
The trick consists in installing crown molding around your ceiling. The molding will hide the LED strips, direct the light towards the ceiling and add a touch of classic charm to your room.
B. Hanging Ceiling Lights
Hanging light fixtures are more adapted for task and ambient lighting. This type of fixture concentrates lights to a small area and can easily become one of the main points of focus when you design a room.
1. Pendant Lights
Source : Destination Lighting
Pendant lights are somewhat similar to chandeliers since they hang low. However, pendant lights provide you with only one source of light.
A pendant ceiling light can make a great addition to a room where you already have a flush light fixture if you would like additional lighting for a specific area.
You can also install several pendant lights for a smaller room or to provide task lighting in different areas. Shop for mini-pendants if you want to light up a hallway or another small.
Mini-pendants are a great way to make a room visually interesting if you don't have enough space to display decor items.
Because pendant lights typically hang low from the ceiling, these fixtures will become very noticeable and absolutely need to work with the style of the room.
Pay attention to the size of the pendant light, to how long it will hang and to whether the design corresponds to the style of the furnishing and decor items you already own.
Themed pendant lights can be a great addition to a nursery! Look for themed light fixtures so you can find pendants that will work with the objects you have already selected to decorate this room.
2. Inverted Pendant Lights
Source: Overstock
Inverted pendant lights instantly create a subdued atmosphere for any room. A lot of homeowners use inverted pendant lights for their kitchen island, but this style can do wonders in a bedroom or even in a living room.
This type of light fixture is ideal for ambient lighting. It can make a small room appear larger since the pendant will direct some of the light towards the ceiling.
Retailers often use the term bowl pendants to refer to these pendant lights, but you can find other shapes for a more modern effect. Think about adding a crown molding in the center of the room since the inverted pendant light will draw attention to this design element and create an intricate effect by directing light at the molding.
3. Chandeliers
Source: Wayfair
A chandelier is definitely going to add some pizazz to your living room or dining room! Because this type of light fixture will instantly become the central point of focus of the room, you need to choose the style of your chandelier very carefully. It is also important to properly adjust the height of this type of ceiling light.
The lowest part of your chandelier should be at 30" above your dining room table. Anything higher might be too small for the room, and anything lower might get in the way or make the room look smaller.
Chandeliers are a popular option for dining rooms, and you can find many different styles, including modern designs. This type of ceiling light is ideal if you want to fill in a large empty space and turn a dining room table into the main point of focus of your room.
Here is how you can determine the ideal size of your chandelier:
• If the chandelier will go above your dining room table, the diameter of the chandelier should correspond to half of the table width.
• For another room, add the length and the width of the room. This number in inches will correspond to the ideal diameter of the light fixture.
There are a few additional things to consider when shopping for a chandelier:
• You can choose a chain-hung fixture for a more traditional look or opt for a suspension chandelier that will be closer to the ceiling.
• A chandelier with more branches will provide more lighting. You can find chandeliers with two or three branches for smaller rooms.
• You can find uplight and downlight designs. An uplight design is ideal if you want to make a room appear larger.
Having a professional install a chandelier should cost between $100 and $400, depending on the fixture you selected. Replacing an old chandelier with a newer one should be even more affordable since you won't need to install new wiring.
4. Track And Rail Lighting
Source: Wayfair
Track lighting fixtures create a very modern effect. These fixtures are ideal for accent or task lighting since several individual lights hang from a track.
You can either mount the track on the ceiling or suspend it from the ceiling depending on the effect and height you want. Some track lighting fixtures let you adjust the direction of the individual lights, which is perfect for your food prep space or your desk!
Track lighting is a popular design element of modern kitchens and bathrooms but it is also an interesting alternative to semi-flush fixtures if you have opted for a modern design in your home.
You can combine track lighting with pendant lights by choosing a fixture designed to hang individual pendants. You can create an original effect and get optimal task lighting by hanging the pendants at different heights.
Track lighting stands out from other options because you can easily customize these fixtures. The installation cost is affordable since have a professional install track lighting in your home typically costs around $500.
Rail lighting is similar to track lighting but you can adjust the shape and position of the rail. Some fixtures also give you the possibility to move the position of each individual light fixtures.
Rail lighting makes sense if you want to add task lighting in a corner or feel that a curved design would look best.
5. Island Lighting
Island lighting is somewhat similar to track lighting. This type of light fixture differs from track lighting because island lighting is specifically designed for kitchen islands.
This means the light fixtures typically hang lower than what most track lighting fixtures allow for. You can also find other designs, including circles and squares to shed task lighting on a larger area.
Even though retailers sell island fixture as kitchen design items, island lighting would make sense in a workshop or over a large desk.
Island lighting will become the main point of focus of your kitchen and is a staple of many modern kitchen designs.
C. Types Of Ceiling Lights By Material
Now that you know more about the different designs you can shop for, let's take a look at the most popular materials for ceiling lights.
The material of a light fixture will really determine if this design element fits within the overall tone and atmosphere of a room.
1. Glass Ceiling Lights
Source: Naomholaf.com
Glass is a popular material for light fixtures since it diffuses light very well. This material easily blends in with your home decor, and it is very easy to find glass ceiling lights that do not make a strong statement if you are looking for something that is more functional than decorative.
However, there are many ways to work with glass. You can find light fixtures with colored glass or for another type of finish that really add some pizazz to a room.
Most flush and recessed lights are made with glass. This material is also common for semi-flushed and pendant lights.
2. Fabric Light Fixtures
Source: OakSenHam
Fabric creates a warmer effect right away and can really set a relaxing mood. Fabric shades are popular for the bedroom but you can definitely make this style work in your living room or dining room.
Flush and semi-flush lights with a fabric shade are fairly common. If you are interested in fabric, keep in mind that the color of the fabric will determine how noticeable the fixture is and will also impact the mood the lighting sets.
3. Crystal Light Fixtures
Source: Pottery Barn
Crystal is the material of choice for chandeliers, but this delicate material is also used to make semi-flush fixtures and some pendant lights.
Crystal can be more expensive, but it makes a stronger statement than a glass ceiling light. This material is particularly interesting because of the way light bounces off crystal facets.
A large crystal light fixture can become a statement piece for a large dining room, whether you opt for a chandelier or another type of ceiling light. However, a crystal fixture can easily make a smaller room seem too crowded.
4. Metal Ceiling Lights
Source: AliExpress
Metal might seem like an unusual material for light fixtures, but this style is becoming more popular. Metal obviously works best with modern designs.
This material is primarily used for track and rail lighting but you can also find modern kitchen islands inspired by industrial designs.
Metal is a versatile material. You can add a discreet metal track fixture for accent lighting in your bathroom or make a metal island fixture the central point of focus of your modern industrial kitchen design.
Other Things To Consider
There are a few other things to consider when shopping for a ceiling light. The primary purpose of a light fixture is to provide ambient, task or accent lighting but there are other features you should take advantage of.
A. Dimmer Switches
Source: PacificSource
Replacing a ceiling light is the perfect occasion to add a dimmer switch to the wiring. Dimmer switches have really improved and are more energy-efficient than ever before
A dimmer switch allows you to adjust the brightness level, save energy and use fewer light bulbs. You can use CFL, LED and some incandescent light bulbs in a light fixture that has been upgraded with a dimmer switch.
Adding a dimmer to a light fixture will only cost you $60 to $130, which makes this simple upgrade worth considering. You should also know that some dimmer switches work with Smart home systems. This means you can control your lights automatically or via your phone.
B. Ceiling Fans
Source: Sears
You can find ceiling fans with built-in lights or kits that you can mount on a ceiling light. This second option would be more adapted if you want to upgrade a room without replacing an existing ceiling light or if you have a specific light fixture in mind.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a ceiling fan:
• Is the fan energy-efficient?
• Can you choose from different speeds?
• Is the size of the fan and number of blades adapted to the room?
• How low will the fan hang from the ceiling?
• Can you mount a ceiling fan kit on your current light fixture?
You can easily mount a ceiling fan kit above a pendant light or inverted pendant light. These kits should also work with a chandelier. If you have another type of ceiling light, you will probably need to replace it with a ceiling fan that includes a built-in light fixture.
C. Light Bulbs
Source: Lightbulbs.com
You need to choose the right type of light bulb in function of the effect you want and in function of how large the room is. When shopping for a new light fixture, make sure the type of light bulbs you use will fit in the light fixture.
These are the different types of light bulbs offered by most retailers:
• Compact Fluorescent Light or CFL is the most common type of light bulbs. These light bulbs are affordable and energy-efficient. They work for ambient and task lighting.
• LED light bulbs use 90% less energy and stay cool. They are more durable and more expensive. Because LEDs are directional lights, these are better suited for task lighting. However, not all light fixtures will maximize the efficiency of LED bulbs.
• Halogens bulbs are another affordable, durable and energy-efficient option. They emit light that is very similar to natural sunlight.
• Incandescent bulbs are no longer made due to low energy-efficiency. However, you can still find some specialty incandescent light bulbs for chandeliers. You should look at alternatives if you have a chandelier since finding compatible CFL or LED bulbs should not be difficult.
Compare the wattage of different light bulbs to determine which product will be more energy-efficient. You should also look at the lumens, which indicate the amount of light a bulb emits.
If you have a dimmer switch, make sure you choose dimmable light bulbs.
You will need to pay attention to the size and shape of the bulbs you purchase if you opt for mini pendant lights, track lighting or install a chandelier. Other types of ceiling lights should easily fit standard light bulb sizes and shapes.
FAQ
Below are answers to commonly asked questions about ceiling lights.
Are ceiling lights easy to install?
The ease of installing ceiling lights will depend on your existing lighting situation. If you are simply replacing an existing fixture, then the process is relatively easy since the junction boxes and wiring are already in place. However, if you are installing ceiling lighting where no such lighting exists, you will need to make an opening in the ceiling and then install the wiring, junction boxes, switch plates, and other necessary components. It is also important to note whether or not you have access to the attic space. Once you have assessed the situation, the installation requires simply following the installation instructions that come with your fixture.
Are LED ceiling lights dimmable?
Not all LED lights are dimmable. Read the product specifications on the LED bulb packaging to determine whether or not the bulb is dimmable. Also, be aware of the type of dimmer you have. Older household dimmers, called leading edge dimmers, were made for incandescent lightbulbs and may not be compatible with LED lights.
What are flush-mounted ceiling lights?
Flush-mounted ceiling lights are any light fixture whose base and lighting components are mounted flush or directly to the ceiling without any gaps or extensions. A common style among flush-mounted ceiling lights is a dome-shaped light.
What are recessed ceiling lights?
Recessed ceiling lights are lights that are installed inside the ceiling in a housing unit that is sometimes called a canister. The housing unit installs above the ceiling line with a visible trim that is flush with the ceiling and may be decorative. The light from the bulb will shine directly downward. Recessed lights are also known as can lights and downlights.
Can ceiling lights be used on walls?
Not all ceiling lights are compatible for wall mounting. The weight and the heat emitted from the fixture need to be considered. It is important to read the instructions and warranty of the ceiling light before considering a wall installation. A wall mount may void the warranty and be considered an incorrect installation.
Where to Buy Ceiling Lights Online
These retailers have an excellent selection of ceiling lights:
Wayfair
The Home Depot
Lowes
Houzz
Overstock
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Don't underestimate the importance of quality tools when you're working on projects, whether at home or on a jobsite. One of the handiest tools to have at your disposal is a fantastic table saw. With so many options on the market, how do you separate the best from those that clearly don't make the cut? You turn to the experts. Here are the picks reviewers have rated as tops.
Best Overall: DEWALT DW7440RS Rolling Saw Stand with 10-Inch Compact Job Site Table Saw
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
For a table saw that goes anywhere, the DEWALT DW7440RS Rolling Saw Stand with 10-Inch Compact Job Site Table Saw is a helpful combo that you'll use again and again. The removable stand gives you the ability to transport it easily and use it on a table or on the stand itself. Eighty five percent or reviewers give this saw five stars for its easy setup, solid performance, and space saving footprint.
Best Value: SKIL 3410-02 10-Inch Table Saw with Folding Stand
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
If you're looking for a heavy duty table saw at a price that's light on your wallet, look no further than the SKIL 3410-02 10-Inch Table Saw with Folding Stand. According to reviews this "well engineered and quite sturdy" saw has "plenty of power" and is a "great value" whether working on DIY projects or professional jobs. Its ingenuity was also praised: "The twin tab and dual toggle method of mounting the saw to the stand is near genius."
Best For Easy Portability: Bosch 10-Inch Portable Jobsite Table Saw GTS1031 with One-Handed Carry Handle
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
When you're hauling a heavy saw from the truck or the storage shed and back again, totebility is an much appreciated feature. The Bosch 10-Inch Portable Jobsite Table Saw GTS1031 with One-Handed Carry Handle is a sturdy choice that's flexible enough to tackle any job. Consumers love that "it's very compact and easy to transport" thanks to the thoughtful way accessories attach underneath, calling it "the perfect blend of performance and size."
Best Small Tabletop Saw: DEWALT 10-Inch Table Saw, 16-Inch Rip Capacity
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
You don't have to sacrifice quality for size when buying a small tabletop saw. The DEWALT 10-Inch Table Saw, 16-Inch Rip Capacity is a powerful machine in a scaled-down package. It's lightweight, yet you can count on it for versatility. Seventy-eight percent of reviewers give this saw five stars for how hard it works while weighing a fraction of the size of other saws.
Best Heavy Duty Portable Saw: SKILSAW 10 in. Heavy-Duty Worm Drive Table Saw 15 Amp Corded Electric with Stand and Diablo Blade
Photo Courtesy: Home Depot
Best For Home Projects: Rockwell BladeRunner X2 Portable Tabletop Saw
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
If you're working on projects at home, a professional quality saw can seem like overkill. The Rockwell BladeRunner X2 Portable Tabletop Saw is a portable table saw that works well for small home projects. It's compact and comes with a set of helpful accessories that make home improvement easier. Reviewers appreciate the versatility and quality of this small but mighty machine, especially those with just a garage shelf for storage. "If I could give it 6 stars I would," praised one reviewer.
Best Adjustable Guard: Dewalt 15-Amp Corded 10 in. Compact Job Site Table Saw with Site-Pro Modular Guarding System
Photo Courtesy: Home Depot
The convenience of an adjustable guard makes the Dewalt 15-Amp Corded 10 in. Compact Job Site Table Saw with Site-Pro Modular Guarding System a worthwhile choice. With power and versatility to spare, its modular guard system gives you more freedom to measure and adjust. Over 800 reviewers bestowed five stars on this well-designed choice, praising its accuracy and performance, especially for weekend DIYers and others who need something lightweight and easy to store.
Best Cordless: Milwaukee M18 FUEL ONE-KEY 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 8-1/4 in. Table Saw Kit
Photo Courtesy: Home Depot
Best For Easy Setup: RIDGID 15 Amp Corded 10 in. Heavy-Duty Portable Table Saw with Stand
Photo Courtesy: Home Depot
On the jobsite, speed and efficiency matter. You don't want to waste time setting up tools, which makes the RIDGID 15 Amp Corded 10 in. Heavy-Duty Portable Table Saw with Stand a smart (and speedy) choice. It does everything you expect from quality machine, but you can set it up in a fraction of the time. Reviewers love the size and easy use of this saw, as well.
Best Professional Quality: RIDGID 13 Amp 10 in. Professional Cast Iron Table Saw
Photo Courtesy: Home Depot
If solid performance is important to you, you'll appreciate the RIDGID 13 Amp 10 in. Professional Cast Iron Table Saw. This table saw is in a higher price range, but it works well on a job-site and is sturdy enough to last for years. Over 700 reviewers give this table saw five stars for dependability, power, and sturdy strength. "Well worth the money," said one user, a sentiment also echoed by more than a few reviewers.
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Not only can a great dining table transform the look, feel and character of your dining space, it also serves as a place for conversation, laughter and quality time with loved ones.
Dining tables are central to life at home - they're not just for mealtimes. Many dining tables double as a workspace, a games table, a place to host guests or simply a place to sit and savour a quiet moment. They come in many shapes, sizes and finishes, read our handy guide for tips on choosing the right dining table for you. No matter the style, shape, or primary function, we believe the dining table plays a vital role in every home. Here are ten of our favourite designs.
1. HAY T12 Dining Table
Boasting a super sleek design, theT12 Dining Table fromHay features a slender profile complemented with soft rounded edges. Defined by its pure functionality, HAY's T12 Table serves well both a dining table or a work desk, making it ideal for those who work from home. Fundamental to the table's design are the legs, which are positioned in the corners to seat as many people as possible, and the generous size which offers optimal working space.
Shop the Hay T12 Dining Table online at Utility today, starting at £1,119
2. Knoll Saarinen Tulip
TheKnoll Saarinen Tulip Dining Tables by design icon Eero Saarinen are part of his Pedestal Collection. Originally designed in 1957, a Tulip Dining Table is a wonderful way to bring a mid-century influence into the home.
Saarinen designed the collection in response to what he called, the "ugly, confusing, unrestful world" underneath tables and chairs. These instantly recognisable dining tables are available in round or oval and offer a timeless appeal alongside practical design. Available in five sizes with multiple marble, wood and laminate finishes.
Shop the Knoll Saarinen Tulip Dining Table online at Utility today, starting at £2,025
3. Hay Copenhague Deux
TheCopenhague Deux range is designed by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec for Danish design brandHay. A modern take on the traditional dining table, the Copenhague Deux has been created with compact spaces in mind. It features the circular CPH220 and rectangular CPH210 dining tables.
The tabletop laminate uses nanotechnology which makes the surface anti-fingerprint and easy to clean, great for homes with sticky fingers! The Hay Copenhague Deux family are beautifully designed and practical for the modern home.
Shop the Hay Copenhague Deux CPH210 Dining Table online at Utility today, starting at £555
4. &Tradition In Between SK6
Designed by Sami Kallio, the&Tradition In Between SK6 Dining Table draws on Kallio's own heritage. Crafted from sturdy oak, a beautiful and reliable material that is steeped in Scandinavian history. TheSK6 Dining Table uses a combination of traditional wood craftsmanship, such as compression moulding and woodturning, together with innovative veneer techniques. It is a homage to the designer's Nordic heritage and knowledge of wood making, as well as his modern, Scandinavian sense of simplicity.
In his 'Between Gaps' series, Kallio sets out to explore the relationship between an object and its surroundings. "My concept started from the outside inwards," explains Kallio. "The table has no negative spaces, but it can be paired with any chair, in any timeframe in any space".
Shop the &Tradition In Between SK6 Dining Table online at Utility today, starting at £1580
5. Kartell Invisible Dining Table
TheInvisible Table, designed byTokujin Yoshioka forKartell, is light and functional. Invisible is a square dining table which boasts to be the largest form created from a single mould in plastic. Created through a pioneering injection technique using only a single mould, it can withstand substantial weight and maintain stability, marking an advance in technological innovation and construction methods.
As suggested in the table's name, objects which sit on its surface appear as though they are suspended in mid-air. Embodying Kartell's signature material and finish, The Invisible Dining Table adapts to its surroundings thanks to its clean and minimal design.
Shop the Kartell Invisible Dining Table online at Utility today, starting at £703
6. Hay Loop Rectangular
The Loop Dining Table from Hay is part of the minimal and highly functional Loop series. Designed by Leif Jørgensen, the collection boasts a well-designed and ultra-functional series of coat stands, wardrobe furniture and tables, all with a consistent family identity.
This modern dining table is instantly recognisable thanks to its three-legged trestles that hold up the tabletop. Ideal for modern living, this table easily doubles as a work desk. Available in a range of sizes and finishes. The top is available in either black linoleum with a black plywood edge or white laminate with raw plywood edge.
Shop the Hay Loop Dining Table online at Utility today, starting at £599
7. Carl Hansen CH327
TheCarl Hansen CH327 Dining Table was designed byHans J.Wegner in 1962. Manufactured byCarl Hansen & Son in Denmark, theCH327 is every inch a Danish design classic, serving as a perfect example of how creativity combined with excellent craftsmanship can result in timelessly exciting design.
CH327 is a solid wood dining table with softened edges and rounded legs that become narrower towards the floor. Interlocking sculptured beams create a strong base and an attractive silhouette, exhibiting a high level of craftsmanship. The legs have a rounded profile offset against the more angular and precise edges of the tabletop.
Shop the Carl Hansen CH327 Dining Table online at Utility today, starting at £3276
8. Muuto Linear Wood
Simple and elegant, theLinear Wood Table features a modern silhouette and understated details. Muuto is rooted in Scandinavian design tradition characterized by enduring aesthetics, functionality and craftsmanship. The Linear Wood Table is a stunning example of this less is more approach to design, it radiates the modern Danish aesthetic. Crafted from oak veneer and solid oak legs, this contemporary dining table is available in various lengths to suit your space.
Shop the Muuto Linear Wood Dining Table online at Utility today, starting at £895
9. Artek Alto Round 91
Designed by iconic Finnish architect Alvar Aalto, theArtek 91 Dining Table looks as modern today as when it was first designed in 1935. The elegant four-leg structure echos the silhouette of the instantly recnognisable Artek 60 Stool.
With legs and edge-bands of Finnish birch, the Round 91 dining table radiates natural beauty and warmth, moving easily between public and private spheres in accordance with Alvar Aalto's belief in versatile furniture. The top is available in birch, linoleum, or laminate, materials that age gracefully over time and last across generations.
Shop the Artek Alto Round 91 Dining Table online at Utility today, starting at £1434
10. Hay Palissade Dining Table
The ultimate dining table for eating al fresco comes from the comprehensive Hay Palissade collection. Designed byRonan & Erwan Bouroullec, the Palissade Dining Table recalls a familiar feeling - like the furniture seen on a country estate - but has a contemporary twist. Made from powder-coated or hot galvanised steelPalissade is strong without being bulky, light without being fragile.
Palissade is intended to be used over a longer period of time and become more beautiful over the years. No need to worry about having to move the table in the winter months, Palissade is designed to withstand being left outside all year round.
Shop the Hay Palissade Dining Table online at Utility today, starting at £735
11. Small Space Pick : Hay Tilt Top Dining Table
TheHay Tilt Top Folding Table is an ingenious folding round dining table designed by duoScholten & Baijings forHay.
Based on a traditional Dutch design of the 1700s for rooms where living space was tight, this contemporary new variation brings an original idea bang up to date. The base simply folds flat and the top tilts to fit flush with it so the table can easily be stored against a wall when not in use.
Perfect for small flats or for tight living spaces the Tilt table is ideal for dining or as a work station. In three stained ash veneer colours, this versatile table is also ideal when extra table capacity is required.
Shop the Hay Tilt Top Table online at Utility today, starting at £475
Time for more? The Dining Table Buying Guide | 10 Best Portable Lamps For The Modern Home | Utility Follows : Ida Thun
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Island lighting is somewhat similar to track lighting. This type of light fixture differs from track lighting because island lighting is specifically designed for kitchen islands.
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