How Layered Lighting Transforms Daily Experiences

Your kitchen at 7 AM tells a different story than your kitchen at dinner time. When thoughtful lighting control guides these transitions, each moment feels natural and intentional. The soft glow above cabinets welcomes early risers, while precise task lighting preps workspaces for morning routines. Integrated lighting control does more than illuminate—it shapes how we experience our homes throughout the day.

Modern lighting design weaves together multiple layers of light, each serving distinct purposes while contributing to the whole. By orchestrating ambient, task, and accent lighting through intelligent control systems, we create environments that respond to our natural rhythms and enhance our daily activities. Let’s explore how modern lighting design and control positively impact daily activities in your home. 

Discover the Luxury of Lutron’s Rania Lighting

Think about the rooms where you spend most of your time. Your kitchen, where morning coffee turns into evening meal prep. Your living room transitioning from energetic family time to relaxed evening unwinding. Now, imagine if the lighting in these spaces could perfectly match each moment, supporting the rhythms of your days and enhancing every activity. We're not just talking about illumination—it's about choosing lighting that actually improves your daily life.

As we embrace the new year, there's no better gift to give yourself and your family than the perfect light for every moment and season. Read on to see how Lutron's Rania LED lighting system, integrated with HomeWorks lighting control, is an investment in both luxury and well-being; transforming your most-used spaces into perfectly illuminated environments that adapt to your needs throughout the day.

In December 2015, Alter Brewing launched its taproom and production facility in the Chicago suburb of Downers Grove, Illinois, during the height of the craft beer boom, when the number of U.S. craft breweries surged from 2,400 in 2012 to around 8,200 by 2019. With such rapid growth, Alter Brewing realized it could no longer rely on distribution alone to meet its business goals. To adapt, the company pivoted toward hospitality, opening its first restaurant in May 2020 in St. Charles, IL.

Despite opening during the pandemic, the new location began to thrive as COVID became a concept many were ready to put in the rear view mirror, according to Alter Brewing President Ken Hendricks. “Restaurants became beacons of gathering and socialization with unwavering support from the community,” he said. Encouraged by this success, Alter Brewing expanded further, opening a second restaurant in Oak Brook, IL, in December 2022.

However, inflationary pressures in 2023 and 2024 presented new challenges. “Cost inputs surged as the spending power of our core guests declined,” Hendricks explained. “In short, folks simply couldn’t afford to come out as frequently as they wanted.” With consumer spending habits shifting, Alter Brewing recognized the need to adjust its strategy again. 

“Great beer and great food in a great location isn’t enough,” Hendricks said. “As people became more discerning with their spending, we needed to enhance the experience we provide. And, as sports fanatics, we want to offer the best sports viewing in the area.”

Ambiance with Excitement 

How HTSA Membership Benefits Clients Through Advanced Training, Premium Partnerships, and Industry Leadership

Since 1966, Barrett's Technology Solutions has maintained a commitment to excellence in home technology across Chicagoland. Starting out as an electronics retailer, we have seen vast changes in the industry and grown and evolved with it through many disruptive technology cycles and fundamental business model revolutions. As an industry leader, we understand that staying ahead requires more than just keeping up with technology—it demands continuous learning, strong industry partnerships, and access to the latest innovations. That's why our membership in the Home Technology Specialists of America (HTSA) plays such a key role in helping us deliver exceptional solutions to our clients.