Zin Collection One-Light Pendant
Boy, do we love Instagram - we get to see the latest in interior design trends and who is featuring our lighting in lots of different settings! Recently we came across Kate Lee Designs, who featured our Zin pendants in a stunning kitchen image on her Instagram feed. Although Kate got her start working in healthcare and commercial design, she now lends her taste to residential design. Kate started her own interior design business in 2010 after the birth of her first daughter and said It was the best decision she ever made. Because of her commercial background, where decisions are very budget-driven, Kate has a mindset of affordable luxury, and her clients appreciate this. "Price points are important," says Kate. "Every budget is different, and I strive to provide a beautiful design that is affordable for a variety of customer budgets- and that's where Progress comes in." In a recent model home she designed for Philadelphia builder PRDC Properties, all of her lighting choices are by Progress. Not only does it fit within the budget, but Progress also fits with Kate's design sensibilities.
Allaire Collection Eight-Light Chandelier
"My design style is simple," said Kate. "I began designing in a clean contemporary style which has evolved to a Modern Farmhouse look that is contemporary, not rustic. I'll use soft lines and wood beams, then add furniture and lighting that gives the design a contemporary edge."
Gaze Collection 60" Ceiling Fan
Kate's lighting plan starts with a focus on the main living areas, where she'll choose a statement piece to accessorize the space "like jewelry for the home," she says. In the bedroom, she likes to select lighting that is warm and feminine, offering a cozy and relaxed vibe.
Assembly Hall Collection Six-Light Foyer Pendant
For the bath, Kate recommends contrasts: a fancy bathroom finished in marble will have a simple lighting design, or a plain bath will pop with lighting finished in polished chrome. In the foyer, "Large lanterns are always a win," Kate says, "they are clean and simple, the opposite of a traditional crystal chandelier."
Equinox Collection Eight-Light Oval Pendant
Kate shares these design tips and tricks: Scale is critical. A large room needs a large fixture: for example, a 36" wide table needs a 30" chandelier. "Progress has a great selection of large-scale lights that coordinate well with smaller pieces and complement each other," said Kate. "For a long, linear table, try using two chandeliers or pendants."
LED One-Light Pendant
And forget fabric shades on kitchen lighting- try metal and glass combinations that can be wiped clean. For the bath, Kate says that sconces must face down to avoid shadows on the face. Get inspired! Check out more of Kate's designs featuring Progress Lighting on
Instagram @kateleedesigns. To shop for lighting, go to
progresslighting.com.