May 2, 2008
I'm not sure anybody really needs LED lights that turn on when submerged in water, but if the urge takes you, they do indeed exist.
"These diamond-looking lights are an incredible decorating tool. With 3 LED bulbs per light, the amount of illumination is amazing. These have been specifically designed for use in clear glass containers and will light up upon contact with the water. Special weighting will ensure that the light remains submerged at the bottom."
The one shown here, that's living at the bottom of a clear flower vase, does do a nice job of drawing attention to the plant, and I'm sure it's a neat look at night. The LED lights are supposed to last 40 hours with "exceptional brilliance" for the first 20.
$15 through Amazon:
Water Activated Diamond Lights
May 1, 2008
Tired of all those table lamps that look like, well, lamps? Looking for something different? Something a little exotic? Something made from alabaster? (Now, that I've weeded out 99.97% of the readers, I should probably talk about the lamp...)
This George Kovacs White Alabaster Stone Curve Table Lamp is definitely on the unique side. Aside from the illumination aspect, it doesn't even look like a light fixture.
"A curled sheet of white alabaster stone panels, this sculptural accent light has a captivating glow. The banding and variations in opacity that are characteristic of alabaster create interesting patterning when lit from within. An inline dimmer switch insures that you can achieve the mood you desire."
It takes 2 60 watt bulbs so it may even be bright enough to read by (so many of the more unusual lamps aren't very practical).
$350 from Lamps Plus
April 16, 2008
If you want a ceiling light that'll make an impression when guests visit, check out this glass Italian chandelier.
Not only does the "Creep Tonite" chandelier (and, yes, I'm wondering what the story is behind that name) look cool from a distance, but take a peek at the close-up below. The petals (leaves?) are serrated, giving them an interesting look reminiscent of a cactus or other prickly plant. Perhaps that's part of where the name comes from.
The hand-made chandelier is part of the Soirée Collection from Italian company Andromeda. The 6-bulb lighting fixture has a shiny nickel frame and weighs in at 40 kg.
Andromeda

April 11, 2008
If you're looking for a unique way to add the gentle glow of moonlight to your outdoor living spaces, then these orbs may be just the ticket. Widely available in Europe, they've recently come to the states via Moonlight USA.
They can float in a pool or pond or be mounted a flat surface (via full orbs or half orbs), and can be used indoors or out. The polyethylene globes can withstand temperatures from -40 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit. They're available in sizes from 13 to 30 inches in diameter, and they can be powered with rechargeable batteries or hardwired into an outlet. The globes also come with interchangeable color filters, so you can have the authentic look of moonlight, but you can also have fun with different colors of lights.
April 10, 2008
If you enjoy decorating with candles, you may dig this interesting wall candle holder:
The Enchanted Forest Voltive Chain.
"The luxurious artistry of candlelight amid graceful boughs of bronzed leaves creates a fairyland setting that is utterly captivating."
The wall candle holder consists of a number of candle sconces linked together in a line. Each piece is hand-fashioned from wrought iron with an antique gold finish. You can get vertical or horizontal sets, and they can be linked together to give you lots of decorative possibilities.
"Compose the inviting doorway garland shown here, or construct a foliage frame that washes a bare wall with flickering silhouettes of light and shadow. The sconces dramatically illuminate a hallway, foyer or stairwell, transforming dark areas into spaces that are alive with warmth."
$40 gets you a set of two horizontal or two vertical candle chains at Illiminations.
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