When it comes to lighting design, there’s a whole universe beyond your typical can lights that gets overlooked faster than a sock in a dryer! Eric G is back in the host chair, and he’s got the fabulous Wendy Glaister with him, mixing up the banter like it’s a cocktail party. They’re joined by Carrie Arnold from Phillips Lighting, who’s here to drop some serious knowledge bombs on us about making our homes shine like the stars. We dive deep into the world of lighting design, where the difference between a cozy nook and a sterile hospital room can often be a matter of light placement and color temperature. Carrie explains that lighting isn’t just about throwing some bulbs in a socket and calling it a day. Oh no, my friend! It’s a nuanced ballet of ambient, task, and accent lighting that can transform a room from blah to breathtaking. Our fantastic trio tackles the common misconceptions about lighting, such as the notorious 6-inch can lights that seem to be the go-to for so many contractors. Eric’s got a love-hate relationship with them, and honestly, who doesn’t? We all know they can make a space feel like a discount store, while the right lighting can elevate it to a luxurious retreat. The episode is sprinkled with personal anecdotes that make you feel like you’re chatting with friends over coffee. From Wendy’s tales of navigating the world of electricians to Carrie’s insights on how lighting can drastically change the mood of a space, you’ll find yourself nodding along and maybe even taking notes. Whether you’re planning a renovation, a new build, or just want to jazz up your current digs, this episode is packed with tips that’ll have you rethinking your lighting game. So, grab a drink, kick back, and get ready to illuminate your life with some expert advice!
Takeaways:
- Lighting design is often misunderstood, and hiring a professional can transform your space dramatically.
- Using layers of lighting—ambient, task, and accent—creates a more inviting and functional environment for your home.
- The right lighting can not only enhance aesthetics but also impact your mood and perception of space significantly.
- Color temperature matters: warmer lights can create a cozy atmosphere, while cooler lights might energize a space.
- Incorporating smart lighting technology allows for more control and customization, making your home adaptable to different moods and tasks.
- Don't settle for generic solutions like recessed can lights; explore creative lighting options that enhance your home's personality.
Links referenced in this episode:
Companies mentioned in this episode:
- Eric G.
- John Dudley
- Wendy Glaser
- Carrie Arnold
- Wendy Glister Interiors
- Lutron
- Savant
- Crestron
- Control4
- Legrand
- Netatmo
- ADORN
- Phillips Lighting
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Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.
Mentioned in this episode:
Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or running backup power near the RV, weather can change fast. A generator still needs to run outside, but rain and snow can put your power plan at risk. GenTent helps protect your portable generator while it’s running, without blocking airflow or access to controls. Keep your power ready for the trip, no matter the weather. Visit gentent.com/ericg.
Gentent 2026
Evolve Stone
We tell the story of Evolve Stone and how they are made in the USA. To listen to the complete episode: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/ef96f15d-b960-44a8-9522-1c3fa56c7cb7/
To find out more and order your free samples with promo code ATH26 head to EvolveStone.com
Evolve Stone
Episode 2241 — Real Design Starts with American-Made Tile: Inside Daltile | Made in America 250
Great design starts with great materials. In this episode of our Made in America 250 campaign, Eric G digs into what makes American-made tile the right choice for your next project — and why Daltile has been a go-to for designers and pros for decades.
As a Certified Kitchen Designer with 35+ years in the industry, Eric uses Daltile in his own projects, and in this conversation he breaks down how the right tile elevates a design, what to look for in quality and selection, and why manufacturing here in America matters for the products going into your home.
If you haven't experienced Daltile, you need to check them out — from kitchens to baths to outdoor living, they've got the surfaces to bring real design home. Learn more at daltile.com. https://player.captivate.fm/episode/07a8c105-8e88-40eb-b8f1-a5340d6a3518/
In this episode:
How American-made tile elevates your next design project
What separates quality tile from the bargain-bin stuff
Why Daltile's selection gives designers and homeowners more to work with
Daltile is a featured brand in the Around the House Made in America 250 campaign, celebrating the American manufacturers shaping real design.
Daltile
Check out the smartest hardware with Baldwin
Baldwin Hardware, known for its luxurious solid brass craftsmanship, has partnered with Level, an ASSA ABLOY Group brand that combines advanced technology with timeless design. This collaboration pairs Baldwin’s iconic style with Level’s innovative engineering—featuring a hidden battery housed within the bolt— to set a new standard in secure, stylish, smart-living.
Baldwin Hardware
Episode 2240 — Prep Like a Pro: Tile Secrets with William White of Ardex Americas | Made in America 250
Great tile starts long before the first piece goes down. In this episode of our Made in America 250 campaign, Eric G sits down with William White from Ardex Americas to break down the prep steps the pros never skip — and the shortcuts that cause tile jobs to fail months down the road.
As a Certified Kitchen Designer with 35+ years in the industry, Eric uses Ardex on his own tile projects, and in this conversation you'll hear why. William shares what proper substrate prep really looks like, the products that make or break an installation, and how American manufacturing keeps Ardex at the top of the trade.
If you haven't heard of Ardex, this is your introduction — give them a try on your next project. Learn more at ardexamericas.com. https://player.captivate.fm/episode/69c7e03f-1852-4481-9a23-ccd389961aec/
In this episode:
Why prep is the difference between a tile job that lasts and one that fails
The prep products the pros trust before every installation
What makes Ardex an American manufacturing standout
Ardex Americas is a featured brand in the Around the House Made in America 250 campaign, celebrating the American manufacturers building better homes.
Ardex
Love Around the House? Leave Us a 5-Star Review — Here's Why It Matters
Producer Jim steps up to the mic with one quick ask: if Around the House with Eric G has ever helped you tackle a remodel, dodge a contractor nightmare, or just make smarter decisions about your home, take 30 seconds and leave the show a rating and review on your favorite podcast player. Reviews are the number one way new listeners discover the show — and they keep the free home improvement advice from Eric G coming every single week. Open Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, tap five stars, and tell us about your favorite episode or your latest project. Rate it, review it, and share it with a friend or neighbor who's got a project on the horizon. Thanks for being part of the Around the House community!
