LED lighting has long held the promise of becoming the domestic lighting standard of the future.   

The technology uses about 75 to 80 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, while lasting up to 25 times longer and significantly reducing heat build-up. But high costs, and a perception that they emit a clinical "cold" light, have tempered LED's adoption. 

Yet, as usage becomes more widespread, those high costs have come down, and improvements to the technology have resulted in LEDs delivering more diffuse, warmer light (with temperatures in the 3000K range), mimicking the light produced by incandescent light bulbs and preferred by many homeowners.

The long-term energy and cost savings of LED lighting is making them an increasingly popular residential option, and manufacturers are meeting the demand with a wide variety of new fixtures for use virtually anywhere in the home.

MaxLite’s line of LED Flush Mount Ceiling Fixtures range from classic to contemporary design styles to fit a variety of interiors. The mounts come in three diameter sizes, with the option to select between finishes and glass diffuser styles, and include dimming capability. The wattage and lumen output varies by model, but all have a color temperature (CCT) of 2700K. They are rated for use in damp areas and have a life span of greater than 35,000 hours.

In a classic profile, the Hemmingway LED Swing Arm luminaire from WAC Lighting is a versatile addition for task lighting in bedrooms or offices; every joint is adjustable to deliver ample light wherever it’s needed. The lamp, which can be hard-wired or used for portable installation, incorporates touch-control dimming on the canopy, with continuous dimming down to 10 percent. It is available in four metal finishes and rated for damp locations. The CCT is 3000K and the rated shelf life is 50,000 hours.

The Swirl LED pendant from Blackjack Lighting provides energy-efficient light in a visually striking package. The light uses replaceable LED strips mounted inside metal stampings. The fixture arms are curved to dissipate light through the room and give a modern, sculptural appearance. Buyers can choose between three diameter sizes and customize the height with an adjustable 42-inch stem kit—additional 24-inch stem extenders can be purchased separately. The pendant includes a dimmer function and offers a 3000K CCT.

The Loox LED lights and accessories line from Rockler Woodworking and Hardware includes several lighting solutions for task and accent lighting, including puck, bar, and ribbon lights. The lights feature plug-and-play assembly and a compact profile to allow their use in various applications, such as under cabinets, inside drawers, or as wall spotlights. Wattage and CCT vary by product; most provide a “warm white” light with a 3000K CCT, though a “cool white” option of 6500K is offered for ribbon lights. Various sizes and finishes are available for puck and bar lights, as is an optional dimmer switch.

With a surface mount design of just 5/8”, the new SlimSurface LED family of downlights from Royal Philips is the thinnest light panel currently available, the company says. It provides the look of recessed lighting while remaining nearly flush with the ceiling or wall, an appealing option for areas with tight space considerations. Edgelit technology places LEDs at the panel’s edge and uses a diffusing lens to distribute light evenly. Philips offers customization options with two square sizes, two round sizes, two lumen outputs, and two color temperatures. The panels are rated for damp areas and have a 50,000 hour lifespan.