Aug 9 2007 6:44AM | Permalink | Email this | Comments (0) |
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Ceiling fan designers and manufacturers have been busy coming up with new looks for these traditionally functional appliances. The ceiling fan of today should make a visual statement in addition to its energy saving and cooling abilities.

And why not? The ceiling fan is a visual focal point. It is centered above a room, where the eye is naturally drawn. So how do you pick the right fan?

The trend is currently to match the style of the ceiling fan with the décor of the room it’s in. Ceiling fans these days really do run the entire spectrum; from rattan to art deco, you can find a wide variety of looks. It’s not just about the blades anymore either, there are light kits with up or down light options.

Recently there’s been a great deal of interest in outdoor ceiling fans as well. With the current trend towards easy transitions between indoor and outdoor living, outdoor fans create continuity on a porch or covered patio. And you can now find outdoor light kits and specially made blades that can endure damp conditions.

Size is always an issue to consider as well. Fans are sized by the length of the blade span, from tip to tip, which generally measures anywhere from 29 to 54 inches. Close to ceiling or hugger fans are optimal for smaller or low-ceiling rooms. Great rooms and large seating areas demand fans with blade spans of 47” or more. Larger blade spans can move the larger amounts of air that are present in high-ceiling areas or large rooms.

White and brown earth tones are the most versatile finish options for ceiling fans, but metallics, classic black and bronze can look great in the right environment. Try installing more than one fan in long, narrow spaces or in very large rooms.

From clean and simple to natural and tropical, ceiling fans offer fitting options for most decorating styles. In addition to their functional role, ceiling fans can now enhance and add personality to a room.