How to Update Light Fixtures: 4 Easy Options

During my time as a home stager, one of the most common recommendations I made during the staging consultation process was to update light fixtures. Outdated builder-grade light fixtures do nothing to enhance the appeal of a property.

Homeowners are sometimes reluctant to follow through on this recommendation because they don’t want to spend money hiring an electrician to install new fixtures or deal with drywall patching and the other minor repairs that often go along with the process of replacing a fixture.

Fortunately, there are a variety of relatively pain-free options for dealing with this home staging challenge.  Let’s talk about four options for how to update light fixtures.

Four Ways to Update Your Light Fixtures

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1. Update Light Fixtures with Spray Paint

If your outdated lighting fixture has chipping paint or is not the most attractive color BUT has “good bones”, then spray painting it may be your best option.

All you have to do is head on over to Pinterest and do a quick search for light fixture painting tutorials, and you will have all of the information that you need to pull off this easy DIY project.  For instance, check out HGTV’s step-by-step guide.

2. Update Your Light Fixtures with New Shades

If you have a chandelier that screams 1993, it may simply be time to change out the chandelier shades.  Replacing traditional bell-shaped shades with a more contemporary drum shade in a neutral color such as the one featured below can make all the difference.

3. Update Your Light Fixtures with a Conversion Kit

Many home improvement stores now offer various lighting conversion kits that make changing the look of your light fixture a snap.  For example, take a look at this conversion kit that enables you to easily transform a recessed light into a pendant light:

Got “Hollywood-style” bathroom fixtures?

Despite the name, this type of fixture is anything BUT glamorous!  Just use a vanity light refresh conversion kit to remedy this common eyesore. Check out this video to see how simple these vanity light conversion kits are to install.

4. Update Your Light Fixtures by Replacing with Wireless Fixtures

Another option for adding on-trend lighting in your home is to use a wireless fixture that can be installed anywhere (no wiring = super simple).

Remove your old light fixture and simply place the new one on top of the fixture mounting plate.  This option is also great for creating additional lighting in a room that receives little natural light.

This type of fixture is powered by batteries and typically includes a remote control wall switch to enable you to turn it on and off just like a standard light. And look at some of the gorgeous options that are out there:

Bottom line:  if you are selling your home (or just want to freshen it up a bit), there’s no need to be intimidated by the process of updating those fixtures any longer! Which option will you try in your home?

While you’re at it, why not update those tired exterior light fixtures too!

Like this post? Check out more decorating and home improvement ideas in my decorating gallery.

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