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April 5, 2016

Dim the Lights!

I'm not much of a DIY'er, even though I constantly dream of being one. However, there is one project that I ALWAYS recommend my clients do in just about every room in your home. And, believe me when I say, "You can do this!". It's time that you install a dimmer switch. This is possibly the easiest DIY project you can tackle and you get the BIGGEST bang for your buck.

Think about it, using a dimmer is a great way to set the mood. Whether you are enjoying a family dinner or hosting a party, dimming the lights will soften things up and make you and your guests feel relaxed and cozy.  And, if I'm being honest here, don't we all think we look better when the lights are dimmed?

Whatever your reason for turning the lights down low, you can't argue with the fact that a dimmer switch provides options. If you want to relax, dim the lights. Need to work, turn them up! Dimmers are also more energy efficient, and therefore an excellent choice for just about any light switch!

There are a few things to keep in mind before your start your first DIY dimmer switch project. I recommend that you purchase the best dimmer you can afford, simply because it'll last longer. Just like the old adage says, "You get what you pay for." Of course, some of my favorite dimmers are from Legrand, as they add to your décor.

I also love the invisible dimmer switch designs by Forbes and Lomax, especially in rooms where you have wallpaper. The dimmer switch simply fades away, instead of distracting the eye.

Leviton designed these dimmers to match just about any color scheme in your home! Why not have a little fun with your switches?! Who knew there were so many options these days?!

Be sure you get the right bulb for your project. Not all lightbulbs are created equal. Read the packaging to ensure you know what bulb is best. I prefer to use a dimmer that can be paired with CFL's or LED lights, as they are more energy efficient.

While I don't claim to be an electrician, changing your light switch to a dimmer is pretty easy to do. Just follow these simple steps below:

  1. Read the instructions on the package (counterintuitive for some of us, I know. But when playing with electricity, I feel it's a must!)
  2. Disconnect the power at the circuit breaker. Try turning the light on and off to ensure that the power is shut off properly.
  3. Unscrew the switch plate and remove it. If you have a noncontact voltage detector, I recommend that you use it to ensure the wires are no longer carrying any current.
  4. Remove the screws holding in the old light switch and gently pull it out of the wall. Now you'll be able to take a good look at what you're dealing with. Most likely, the wires are wrapped around the connector screws, in which case you can either loosen the screws or use wire strippers to snip the ends off and remove the old switch.
  5. Now it's time to install your new dimmer! READ THE INSTRUCTIONS! Following the package directions, loop the ends of the wire around the connector screws on the new dimmer switch.
  6. Tuck the switch into the box, secure it with screws and reaffix the switch plate.
  7. Turn the power back on via the circuit breaker. Then dim the lights!

Of course, if you don't feel comfortable at any point, please call an electrician. Safety first!

Good luck on your DIY dimmer switch installation! We know you can handle it!

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Clients who have experienced the transformative power of healthy interior design

Renee possesses a rare combination of artistic creativity and intuitive design. Her warmth and compassion extended beyond working with us to understanding the style and feel of our home and how we live in it. We felt fortunate to work with and get to know Renee and absolutely love the updates she made to our home- from windows and walls to artwork and furniture!

Jim P.

Renee is an absolutely wonderful designer. Very talented and easy to work with! She will transform your room or outdoor space into exactly what you want, only better!

Karen S.

Talented, creative, dedicated, great communicator. Renee is such a special person.

Marla W.

We have worked with Renee Carman at this company for almost 2 years. Renee is professional, personable, and a pleasure to know. She is very helpful and will go the extra mile to please her clients. Renee has excellent expertise and knowledge of interior design. We have a beautiful home and highly recommend her.

Lisa W.

Renee possesses a rare combination of artistic creativity and intuitive design.  Her warmth and compassion extended beyond working with us to understanding the style and feel of our home and how we live in it.  We felt fortunate to work with and get to know Renee and absolutely love the updates she made to our home- from windows and walls to artwork and furniture!

Kate S.

Renee was a pleasure to work with and has great vision. We were doing a total rehab of a recently purchased property and she was able to look at a gutted out '50s cottage and turn it into a beautiful mid-century modern home. She understood our budget and timeline and was good about narrowing all our options down to just a few choices. This expedited the process, made it less difficult and more enjoyable. Once the rehab is done, we look forward to working with her again and finish the rest of the rooms.

Bill H.

Renee at Mandeville Canyon Interior Design was simply wonderful to work with. She was able to understand what we were looking for in terms of color, function and design from the moment we first spoke. She's easy to work with, goes above and beyond and delivers an outstanding design.

I highly recommend Renee and Mandeville Canyon Interior Design. I don't think I will attempt to decorate another room in my house without the help of Renee!

Pam O.

Love working with Renee and Mandeville Canyon Interior Design ! I had the opportunity to collaborate on a large scale design project recently and the results were fantastic! Creative, resourceful and one of kind design ideas made this design opportunity with Renee "one of a kind" Have a large or small project? You won't be disappointed!!

Mary S.

Renee not only has an amazingly creative eye, she also directed a massive renovation for us this past year that included the challenges of operating during the pandemic. She put together a team that had an incredible work ethic and brought the project in on-time and on-budget. She's a great listener. When we threw ideas at her, she was never dismissive; quite the contrary, she made them better. Her patience, attention to detail combined with her whacky sense of humor meant we were all able to smile while producing a home that we love. A great talent and a great lady.

Ann R.

Rene is amazing!  Great customer care and wonderful attention to detail.

Holly M.