The ugly light builder grade light in my closet recently stopped working altogether, so I had to find a new one. Like many homes out there today, my closet was equipped with the dreaded builder-grade “boob” light, and I decided that I wanted something new. I know that these builder-grade types of lights are relatively inexpensive, but there are other options out there that aren’t that much more, but provide a lot more in the way of style and aesthetics. I did a lot of looking around, so I thought it would be fun to look at some builder grade lighting alternatives. This post contains some affiliate links.
If you’re wondering what a “boob” light is, let me clarify. Look familiar?
Builder Grade Lighting Alternatives
Builder grade lighting is usually functional, in that sometimes the space doesn’t lend itself to a chandelier-style light or something that hangs down too low from the ceiling. That said, there are lots of gorgeous flush-mount or semi-flush mounted lighting options that still function the way you need them to, but without the ugly aesthetic.
There is a light for every budget, every finish, every shape, every style. I think we can all agree that these are better options than the builder grade version. And yes, not every room warrants a boob light upgrade, but when you see them throughout a home, you can decide where you wish to invest your lighting dollars.
Polished Light Fixtures
This polished nickel flush mount fixture is stylish and elegant. I think it would be a beautiful option in a closet, powder room or even an entry hall.
In the same polished finish, you could go for this high style modern and metal mix light fixture.
Drum Shade Options
I have always been a fan of the drum shade light. Remember this drum shade fixture in our breakfast area? The scalloped shape and the contrasting trim on this fixture make it a winner in my book. It would be an adorable addition to a girl’s room.
Another scalloped light alternative is this beauty, complete with brass detailing.
If you like the brass detail, but want more of a drum shade shape, you might like this pretty criss-cross pattern.
You can find builder grade lighting alternatives in other shapes as well. How about this square drum shade fixture with a pewter finish?
You can always opt for a more traditional drum shade light fixture, like this one. This is similar to the style that I chose for my own closet. A boob light upgrade, no doubt.
Go Glam
If you’re craving a little bit of glam in your home, this glitzy flush mount light fits the bill. I think this one would be a beauty in a closet, don’t you?
Farmhouse Style
If you’re looking for more of a farmhouse style light fixture, give this one a look. I like the seeded glass detail with the Edison lightbulb.
Are you on a mission to eradicate some boob lighting in your home? Do you have any favorites when it comes to builder grade lighting alternatives? I think they all bring something to the table, but I’d better not let my daughter see the glam one, she’ll start putting a case together, campaigning for all of the reasons that she needs it.
Jenny
6 Comments
Tanya Derrey Bingham
July 26, 2017 at 1:51 pmSo much better than the good old boob lights! I am working my way thru our home changing out ours, and i LOVE these!
Jenny
July 26, 2017 at 9:11 pmThey are better, aren’t they? I think it’s worth a little extra $$ to not have to deal with boob lights in the house.
Ivory
July 26, 2017 at 10:01 pmThese lights are exquisite. Thanks for sharing
colorninterior
August 11, 2017 at 7:55 amAll these boob lighting are so great. Thanks for sharing the resource links.I like the go glam style the most. I’m definitely gonna purchase it for my living room. Thanks for sharing!
Mary
April 27, 2018 at 1:37 pmHi Jenny,
My builder grade home has these boob lights and I was wondering how to remove the nipple, if you will. I need to change a light bulb. I crawled up a ladder thinking that I would just unthread the nipple, but no go. Is there a trick to removing the nipple?
Jenny
April 27, 2018 at 5:53 pmNow there’s a question I haven’t gotten before! That piece should come right off, as in most cases, that’s what’s holding the “boob” portion of the light, right? Does it need some more power to remove it?