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Lighting is one of the most important elements of any room, influencing not only the aesthetic appeal but also its functionality. Whether you're designing a living room, bedroom, kitchen, or office, choosing the right lighting fixtures can completely transform your space. But with so many options available, how do you know which lighting fixtures will work best for your needs? Here’s a guide to help you make the right choice.

(Pictured: Noulou Sofa, Noulou Loveseat and Deidra Table Lamp)

1. Understand the Types of Lighting

Before you dive into selecting light fixtures, it's important to understand the three primary types of lighting:

• Ambient Lighting: This is your general, overall lighting. It ensures your room is evenly lit and serves as the base layer of lighting. Common ambient lights include ceiling-mounted fixtures, floor lamps and wall-mounted fixtures.
  
  
• Task Lighting: As the name suggests, task lighting is designed to help you complete specific tasks such as reading, cooking, or working. Desk lamps, under-cabinet lighting, or pendant lights over a kitchen island are great examples of task lighting.
  
  
• Accent Lighting: Accent lighting adds drama or highlights specific features in a room, such as artwork, architectural details, or plants. Wall sconces, track lighting, or recessed fixtures can create a dynamic, layered look.

2. Consider the Function of the Room

Different rooms require different lighting setups, and it’s essential to think about the room’s function before choosing fixtures.

• Living Room: This is often the main room of a home. Ambient lighting is key here, but task lighting can also play a role. Consider layered lighting with a combination of ceiling lights, floor lamps, and accent lighting to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
  
  
• Kitchen: Kitchens require both ambient and task lighting, especially over work areas such as countertops and islands. Overhead recessed lights or pendant lights over the island provide task lighting, while ceiling fixtures or under-cabinet lighting can offer ambient light.
  
  
• Bedroom: Bedrooms often need softer, more calming lighting. A mix of ambient lighting with dimmable fixtures works well. Nightstands with table lamps can add functional lighting for reading, while wall sconces offer accent lighting to create a relaxing vibe.
  
  
• Office: Workspaces benefit from bright, focused task lighting, particularly for reading or working on a computer. Consider desk lamps or overhead track lighting that can be adjusted to focus on the work area. Ambient light can come from ceiling lights, while floor lamps can add warmth.

3. Consider Room Size and Ceiling Height

The size and layout of your room should also influence your lighting choices.

• Small Spaces: For small rooms, avoid overly large or heavy fixtures. Opt for compact and simple lighting designs that offer ample light without overcrowding the space. Flush mount or semi-flush mount ceiling fixtures work well here.
  
  
• Large Rooms: Larger rooms can handle bigger, more decorative light fixtures. A chandelier, large pendant light, or a multi-bulb fixture can make a statement and ensure the space is well-lit.
  
  
• High Ceilings: If you have high ceilings, opt for tall or long light fixtures such as chandeliers or tall pendant lights that can visually anchor the space. Alternatively, recessed lighting can help create a uniform light distribution.

4. Determine Your Lighting Style

Lighting fixtures come in various styles, and the right one can complement your existing décor. Consider these common lighting styles:

• Modern: Sleek lines, minimalism, and geometric shapes define modern lighting fixtures. If you have a contemporary space, look for fixtures in materials like matte black, brushed metal, or glass.
  
  
• Traditional: For more classic or vintage-inspired interiors, consider chandeliers, sconces, or lantern-style fixtures. Antique brass, bronze, or wrought iron are popular materials for traditional designs.
  
  
• Industrial: Industrial lighting features exposed bulbs, metal finishes, and raw, unfinished materials. This style works great in lofts or spaces with exposed brick or concrete.
  
  
• Rustic/Farmhouse: If you're creating a cozy, rustic atmosphere, go for fixtures made from wood, wrought iron, or barn-style designs. Pendant lights with mason jar shades are also a fun, rustic option.

5. Choose the Right Bulbs

Once you’ve selected your light fixtures, you’ll need to choose the right bulbs. The type of bulb you choose affects both the brightness and warmth of the light. Here are some common options:

• LED Bulbs: Energy-efficient and long-lasting, LED bulbs are available in various brightness levels and color temperatures. They work well in nearly any type of fixture.
  
  
• Incandescent Bulbs: These bulbs provide a warm, natural glow and are best for creating a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. However, they are less energy-efficient than LEDs.
  
  
• Smart Bulbs: If you want flexibility, smart bulbs can be controlled remotely via your smartphone or voice assistant. You can adjust the brightness and even change the color to suit your mood or time of day.

6. Keep Your Budget in Mind

Lighting fixtures can range from budget-friendly to luxurious, so it's important to establish a budget before you start shopping. While it can be tempting to go for high-end options, there are plenty of stylish and functional fixtures at various price points. Sometimes, mixing and matching more affordable options with a few statement pieces can create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing look without breaking the bank.

(Pictured: Austanny Desk, Austanny Desk Chair, Austanny Bookcase, Abanson Desk Lamp)

Choosing the right lighting fixtures can be a fun and rewarding part of designing your space. By considering the function of the room, the style of your décor, and the size of the space, you can find lighting that enhances the overall atmosphere while serving your practical needs. Whether you want to create a cozy retreat, a productive workspace, or a stylish entertaining area, the right lighting will make all the difference.

So, let your creativity shine and illuminate your home with lighting that reflects both your taste and your lifestyle!

The holiday season is the perfect time to gather with loved ones, share a delicious meal, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner, a family brunch, or an intimate celebration, the dining room plays a central role in setting the stage for a memorable experience. From selecting the right furniture to designing an elegant and functional table setting, the right details can elevate your holiday hosting game.

Here are some tips and tricks for creating the perfect dining room atmosphere during the holiday season.

(Pictured: Realyn Dining Table & 8 Chairs)

How to Choose the Right Dining Set

The furniture in your dining room is the foundation of your holiday gatherings. It should not only look beautiful but also offer comfort and function. Here are some key pieces to consider when planning your dining space for the holidays:

• Dining Table: Your table is the centerpiece of the room, so it’s important to choose one that suits both the size of your space and your guest list. Opt for a table that comfortably accommodates everyone—whether you’re hosting a small dinner or a large family feast.
  
  • Round Tables are great for creating a more intimate and conversation-friendly environment.
  • Counter Height Tables are ideal for smaller spaces since they usually add more storage space with storage racks.
  • Extendable Tables are ideal for versatility. Choose one that can expand when you need extra seating, then retract for everyday meals.
• Dining Chairs: Matching chairs can create a cohesive look, but feel free to mix and match for a more eclectic and personalized vibe. If you expect to have long meals, comfort is key. Choose chairs with a supportive backrest and cushioned seating for added comfort.
  
  • Chair Cushions: If your chairs aren't the most comfortable, consider adding festive cushions that provide both style and support.
  • Benches: For a casual and communal feel, add a bench or two along one side of the table. These are especially great for families with kids or larger groups.
• Buffet or Sideboard: If you’re serving a buffet-style meal or need extra storage for dishes, a sideboard or buffet can be an elegant addition to your dining room. It provides a place to set up food and drinks and can also be used to store extra serveware, linens, and candles.

Creating a Stunning Holiday Spread

The table setting is where your creativity shines. It’s the perfect opportunity to showcase your personal style, and with the holidays in full swing, you can bring in seasonal accents that reflect the mood of the season. Here are some ideas to make your holiday table both beautiful and functional:

• Color Palette: The color scheme of your table setting sets the tone for the entire dining experience. For a traditional holiday look, try using rich reds, greens, golds, and silvers. If you prefer something more modern, consider a minimalist palette of whites, blacks, and metallics with pops of greenery.
  
• Table Linens: A beautiful tablecloth or runner can instantly elevate your dining room. For a cozy, rustic look, try a linen tablecloth in a natural hue paired with a burlap runner. For a more elegant feel, use a velvet or satin table runner in deep jewel tones. Don't forget cloth napkins—they add an extra layer of refinement. Consider using napkin rings that match your theme.
  
• Centerpiece: A striking centerpiece can be a focal point of your table, bringing the whole setting together. Consider using a combination of candles, fresh flowers, and seasonal decorations.
  
• Personal Touches: Make your guests feel special with personal touches like place cards, small party favors, or a handwritten menu card. Place cards not only help with seating but also add a level of refinement to your table. If you’re hosting children, consider small, fun place settings with personalized touches, such as a mini treat bag or a small holiday toy.
  

Final Tips for Successful Holiday Hosting

• Plan Ahead: Prepare your dining room ahead of time so you’re not rushing to set up at the last minute. This gives you more time to focus on your guests and the food.
• Consider Space and Flow: Ensure there’s enough space around the table for guests to move around comfortably. Avoid overcrowding the table with too many decorative elements—leave space for the food!
• Relax and Enjoy: Once everything is set, don’t forget to relax and enjoy the moment. The holidays are about creating memories, so cherish the time spent with friends and family.

With the right dining room furniture and creative table setting ideas, you can transform your space into the perfect setting for holiday celebrations. Let your creativity flow, and remember that a warm, welcoming atmosphere is the best gift you can give to your guests!

In today's world, creating a luxurious and stylish home doesn't have to break the bank. With some creativity, smart shopping, and strategic upgrades, you can achieve the upscale look you desire without overspending. In this blog post, we'll explore practical tips and ideas for upgrading your home with a budget-friendly approach.

Define Your Style:

1. Begin by defining your style preferences and envisioning the look and feel you want for your home. Research interior design trends and gather inspiration from magazines, websites, and social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. By having a clear vision of your style, you can make informed decisions when selecting furniture and decor items.

Set a Budget:

2. Before diving into home upgrades, it's crucial to establish a realistic budget. Determine how much you're willing to spend on each area of your home, such as the living room, bedroom, kitchen, and outdoor spaces. Allocate funds for furniture, accessories, paint or wallpaper, and any necessary renovations or repairs.

Shop Smart:

3. When shopping for furniture and decor, keep an eye out for sales, promotions, and clearance events at stores like Wichita Furniture & Mattress. Look for quality pieces that offer both style and durability.

Focus on Key Pieces:

4. Instead of completely overhauling every room, focus on key pieces that can make a significant impact. Invest in a statement sofa or a luxurious area rug for the living room, upgrade your bedding and pillows in the bedroom, or add stylish lighting fixtures and wall art to enhance the overall ambiance.

Mix High and Low:

5. Achieve a curated and high-end look by mixing high-quality, investment pieces with more affordable finds. Splurge on timeless furniture items like a quality mattress or a durable dining table, and complement them with budget-friendly decor accents like throw pillows, candles, and decorative accessories. We offer quality mattresses in all price ranges. Shop mattresses here: https://wichitafurniture.com/mattresses

Create Visual Interest:

6. Enhance the visual appeal of your home by incorporating elements of texture, color, and pattern. Add cozy throws and textured cushions to your seating areas, experiment with accent walls or wallpaper in focal areas, and introduce pops of color through artwork, rugs, and drapery. Shop budget-friendly home decor ideas here: https://wichitafurniture.com/home-decor

By following these tips and embracing a creative and resourceful mindset, you can achieve luxury living for less and transform your home into a stylish and inviting space that reflects your personality and tastes. With strategic planning and smart choices, upgrading your home on a budget is not only achievable but also rewarding and fulfilling.

As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, it's the perfect time to embark on a thorough spring cleaning journey. In this blog post, we'll guide you through a step-by-step spring cleaning routine that will leave your home sparkling and refreshed for the season ahead.

Step 1: Declutter and Organize

The first step in any successful spring cleaning endeavor is decluttering and organizing. Start by going through each room and decluttering items that you no longer need or use. Donate or discard items responsibly, and then organize the remaining items in an efficient and tidy manner.

Step 2: Dust and Wipe Down Surfaces

Next, tackle the dust and grime that may have accumulated during the winter months. Dust and wipe down all surfaces, including shelves, countertops, furniture, and baseboards. Use a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaning solution to ensure a thorough clean without damaging surfaces.

Step 3: Deep Clean Floors

Give your floors some extra love by deep cleaning them. Vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly, and use a steam cleaner if possible for a deeper clean. For hard floors, sweep or vacuum first, then mop with a suitable cleaner for your floor type.

Step 4: Refresh Upholstery and Fabrics

Take the time to refresh upholstery, curtains, and other fabric items in your home. Vacuum upholstered furniture, spot clean any stains, and consider using a fabric refresher to eliminate odors and refresh the fabric.

Step 5: Clean and Organize Closets and Storage Areas

Don't forget about closets and storage areas during your spring cleaning routine. Organize closets, purge items you no longer need, and consider using storage solutions to maximize space and efficiency.

Step 6: Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces

With cleanliness and hygiene in mind, disinfect high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and countertops. Use a disinfectant spray or wipes that are safe for your surfaces.

Step 7: Freshen Up the Air

Finally, freshen up the air in your home by opening windows to let in fresh air, using air purifiers if needed, and adding a touch of spring with scented candles or natural air fresheners.

By following this step-by-step spring cleaning routine, you'll be well on your way to a cleaner, more organized, and refreshed home. Enjoy the benefits of a clean space as you embrace the new season ahead!

Transform your outdoor space into an inviting oasis where you can unwind, entertain, and enjoy the beauty of nature with stylish and functional outdoor furniture. We offer a range of furniture pieces designed to enhance your outdoor living experience, from comfortable seating options to versatile dining sets and accessories that elevate your outdoor entertaining game.

Comfortable Seating for Relaxation:

• Lounge Chairs: Sink into plush lounge chairs that offer ultimate comfort and support while you soak up the sun or relax with a good book.
• Outdoor Sofas and Sectionals: Create a cozy seating area with outdoor sofas and sectionals that provide ample space for lounging and socializing with friends and family.

Functional Dining Sets for Outdoor Gatherings:

• Dining Tables and Chairs: Choose from a variety of stylish dining tables and chairs designed to withstand the elements while providing a comfortable and elegant dining experience.
• Bar Sets: Elevate your outdoor entertaining with bar sets that feature high-top tables and stools, perfect for casual gatherings and enjoying drinks under the stars.

Accessories for Outdoor Living:

• Umbrellas and Shade Solutions: Stay cool and protected from the sun with umbrellas and shade solutions that add a touch of style to your outdoor space.
• Outdoor Rugs: Define your outdoor seating areas and add warmth and texture with durable and weather-resistant outdoor rugs.
• Fire Pits and Heating Solutions: Extend your outdoor entertaining into the cooler evenings with fire pits or heating solutions that create a cozy ambiance and keep guests comfortable.

Tips for Creating Your Outdoor Oasis:

• Consider your space: Choose furniture that fits your outdoor area and allows for easy movement and flow.
• Quality materials: Opt for furniture made from durable and weather-resistant materials such as teak, aluminum, or resin wicker.
• Personalize with accessories: Add personal touches with cushions, throw pillows, and decor items that reflect your style and enhance comfort.

Create a welcoming and stylish outdoor oasis with functional and stylish furniture pieces that cater to relaxation, entertaining, and enjoying the great outdoors. With the right furniture and accessories, you can transform your outdoor space into a retreat that you'll love spending time in. To shop our outdoor furniture selection please visit https://wichitafurniture.com/outdoor-furniture. All the furniture pictured in this blog post can be purchased on our website!

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home, and that includes taking care of your mattress for a healthier and more comfortable sleep environment. Here are a few tips on how to care for and maintain your mattress this Spring.

Cleaning Tips for a Fresh Start

• Vacuum Regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove dust, dirt, and allergens from the surface and crevices of your mattress.
• Spot Clean Stains: Treat stains promptly with a mild detergent or upholstery cleaner, and avoid using excessive water to prevent moisture buildup. A nontoxic cleaning spray option is equal parts of water and white vinegar. After spraying the stains, sprinkle baking powder and let sit for one hour then vacuum away.
• Air Out Your Mattress: On a sunny day, remove bedding and open windows to allow fresh air to circulate around your mattress and help eliminate odors.
• Use Mattress Protectors: Invest in a quality mattress protector to shield your mattress from spills, stains, and dust mites, and wash it regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions. Need one? We sell mattress protectors online and in-store! Shop online here,  https://wichitafurniture.com/bed-sheets

Rotation and Flipping Tips for Even Wear

• Rotate Regularly: To promote even wear and prevent sagging, rotate your mattress from head to foot every 3-6 months, especially for single-sided mattresses.
• Flip If Applicable: If you have a double-sided mattress, consider flipping it over along with rotation to maintain proper support and longevity.
• Check for Signs of Wear: Inspect your mattress for signs of wear and tear, such as lumps, sags, or indentations, and address any issues promptly to prolong its lifespan.

Protecting Your Investment for Long-Term Comfort

• Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Refer to your mattress manufacturer's care instructions for specific guidelines on cleaning, rotating, and maintaining your mattress.
• Avoid Moisture: Keep your mattress dry and well-ventilated to prevent mold, mildew, and odors, and use moisture-absorbing materials if necessary. We offer mattress protectors to help keep moisture out of your mattress. Visit https://wichitafurniture.com/bed-sheets to shop mattress protectors.

By following these mattress care and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your mattress stays fresh, clean, and comfortable for many restful nights of sleep throughout the spring and beyond.

As Easter approaches, it's the perfect time to gather friends and family for a delightful brunch celebration 🐰

At Wichita Furniture and Mattress, we understand the importance of creating a stylish and inviting dining space for holidays. In this blog post, we'll showcase some dining room essentials to help you host a memorable and elegant Easter brunch.

Stylish Seating: Choosing the Perfect Dining Room Chairs for your Guests.

We have plenty of seating options in-stock so you can get it today!

The beauty of the Bolanburg upholstered dining chair is something to savor. Contoured seat cradles you in cushioned comfort, while lattice peekaboo detail on the back makes this a striking chair from all angles. Heavy woven fabric adds textural interest that complements the chair’s antiqued white finish.With its distinctive contoured bucket seat and tubular metal base, the Centiar dining chair serves up a fresh twist on mid-century inspired style. Faux leather upholstery has a charmingly vintage tone.

With its distinctive contoured bucket seat and tubular metal base, the Centiar dining chair serves up a fresh twist on mid-century inspired style. Faux leather upholstery has a charmingly vintage tone.

Inspired by heavy and hearty lodge-style furnishings from days gone by, the Wyndahl dining room upholstered chair brings the past brilliantly into the present. Enticing with a distressed aged pine color finish with light wire-brushed texture, this richly styled dining chair with bent slat design and textural beige upholstery is reserved for those who appreciate furniture with great presence.

Brunch Buffet Essentials: Functional and Chic Dining Furniture

A buffet or server is a versatile addition to your Easter brunch setup, offering functionality and style. Its spacious surface provides ample room for serving platters, plates, and utensils, making it easy for guests to help themselves and enjoy the feast. Serve your guests in style with these in-stock buffet/server options!

Need a stylish space to store dinnerware and all your dining room essentials? The Bolanburg server is a dream come true with four adjustable shelves that offer large capacity and a spacious top that's perfect for setting a buffet. Embellished with the casual appeal of three latticed doors, an attractive planked top with weathered oak finish and a lightly distressed white finish throughout, this vintage look will serve up elegance for years to come.

Live life beautifully with the Modern Farmhouse buffet. Crafted of poplar solids with knotty white oak veneers, this piece features a dusty charcoal finish with heavy distressing and wire brushing and is accented with washed brass elongated bar pull hardware. There are four doors with a geometric high-low veneer pattern. Behind the doors are two full extension pull out drawers that are lined with premium felt, and two adjustable shelves. The Modern Farmhouse buffet has simple clean lines that will create a timeless style.

The Galliden dining server brings a rustic vibe to urban contemporary design. It’s a modern approach to natural beauty, with faux cane accents incorporating eye-catching texture. Chic storage is made possible with a reversible wine rack shelf, a drawer and cabinets. And the server’s color palette is stunningly simple, allowing it to coordinate seamlessly with your Easter decor.

Tables Big Enough for the Whole Family

A dining table plays a central role in Easter hosting, serving as the focal point for gathering family and friends. It provides a spacious and comfortable setting for enjoying festive meals and creating lasting memories. Check out a few of our stylish, in-stock dining tables!

Moriville counter height dining table might be simple at first sight, but a closer look reveals beauty in the details. From the through-tenon pedestal base to the plank-effect table top and distressed nutmeg finish, Moriville is beaming with charm. Small scale is especially suited to loft-style living, but two optional leaves ensure there’s plenty of space for parties up to eight.

The Realyn dining room extension table has all the right ingredients for a French country-inspired feast for the eyes. Antiqued two-tone aesthetic pairs a chipped white with a distressed wood finished top for a double serving of charm. Drop-in leaf allows you to comfortably accommodate eight.

Dressed to thrill, the simply stunning Burkhaus dining table offers a high-design look at a down-to-earth price. Ultra sleek lines are accentuated with a dark waxy brown oak-tone finish that’s so easy on the eyes. Clean-lined and modern, the double pedestal base and thick edge tabletop showcase quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.

With our curated selection of dining room essentials for Easter entertaining, you can host a stylish and memorable brunch for your loved ones!

In this post, we're exploring how to infuse your home decor with a touch of green just in time for St. Patrick's Day! From subtle accents to bold statements, green can bring a sense of freshness, tranquility, and vibrancy to any space.

• Embrace Nature-Inspired Elements:
  • Incorporate natural elements such as potted plants, succulents, or fresh flowers to infuse your space with lush greenery.
  • Opt for botanical prints or artwork featuring landscapes, leaves, or florals to bring the outdoors in and add a touch of natural charm to your decor. Shop botanical prints here: 💚 https://wichitafurniture.com/botanicalprints

• Experiment with Green Accents:
  • Introduce green accents through decorative pillows, throws, or rugs to add pops of color and visual interest to your living room or bedroom. Shop our green rugs here: 💚 https://wichitafurniture.com/greenrugs
  • Consider swapping out lampshades, curtains, or window treatments with shades of green to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.

• Statement Furniture Pieces:
  • Make a bold statement with green furniture pieces such as sofas, accent chairs, or ottomans to anchor your space and inject personality into your decor. Shop our favorite green loveseat 💚 https://wichitafurniture.com/bixlerloveseat
  • Opt for rich emerald or deep forest green hues for a sophisticated and luxurious look, or choose lighter shades like sage or mint for a more airy and refreshing feel.

• Play with Texture and Pattern:
  • Experiment with different textures and patterns to add depth and dimension to your green-infused decor. We love the texture on this green throw pillow 💚 https://wichitafurniture.com/rustingmere
  • Mix and match materials like velvet, suede, or leather for a tactile experience, or layer geometric, botanical, or abstract patterns for visual intrigue.

• Create a Green Haven in the Bedroom:
  • Transform your bedroom into a serene oasis by incorporating green bedding, throws, or accent pillows for a tranquil and restful ambiance. Shop our green bedding here: 💚 https://wichitafurniture.com/greenbedding
  • Consider adding a statement headboard upholstered in a lush green fabric or opt for green-themed wall art or decor to enhance the calming atmosphere.

With these creative ideas, you can effortlessly incorporate a touch of green into your home decor and elevate your space with style and sophistication- just in time for St. Patrick’s Day!