Fluorescent Light Fixture Makeover

I am so excited to share this with you because I made a promise to myself that if I need to know how to do this, then others might appreciate my insight on how we tackled it as well!

We moved into our 1969 bungalow 11 years ago and for 11 years I looked at a truly retina-burning HUGGEEE fluorescent light fixture in our basement.  We didn't switch it out because it was actually inset into the ceiling, so that meant repairing a massive hole in the ceiling or finding a way around it and McGyvering it.  I opted to unleash my inner McGyver and this is the end result.

I will share the steps with you as my hubby and I join forces (I definitely needed extra hands to install this) to make a massive change in my Woman Cave Lounge.

Here is what the lovely gem looked like BEFORE...you may needs sunglasses.  Ohhh, my!

This was while I was getting ready to start my WCL reno.  And the moment I decided the nasty fixture needs to die.

 We ripped the old fixture out and started making plans for the new one. We measured the opening in the ceiling and built out a box to fit right back into the hole with 1/4" plywood. The frame is made of 1 x 2 pine. The frame fits the size of the hole and the plywood is attached to the top of the frame.

I wanted to do something that would easily give me a longer fixture length look but I didn't like anything in the stores.  I scoured Amazon and found these cute brass hanging sockets.  You can find them HERE and they are SUPER affordable which was important because, well, budgeting!!! :-)

I measured out the spots on the new box for light placement.  I decided on 3 hanging pendants because it filled the spot well. We drilled the holes for the wiring to go through. Also we predrilled holes on the frame to screw the fixture in the ceiling when it was time to install it. I used Rustoleum Chalked Spray paint in the color Charcoal to paint this out.  It was super easy to use and I love the finish it provides.  

Hubs mounted the lights on the new light box.  He did a great job! 

Hubs wired it in for me while I played foreman...just kidding, I totally helped, and then we installed it and screwed that bad boy up!  At this point I am beyond elated because it is looking DOPE!

I found these killer Amber Edison lightbulbs too which was by far the cheapest spot to get them.  I have since ordered more for other parts of my home.  They look SO great!! 

Once it was installed we added small trim around the outside, which I also sprayed with the Rustoleum Chalked Paint.  NOTE:  I usually am wearing pj's and Buffalo check flannel when I do my DIYs.  It's my signature move.  #lumberjackchic 

I think the total came to just over $100 for materials but when I compare the cost of ripping out the re-drywalling the downstairs, well...this was WAY more appealing!  I love how it turned out!! 

Thanks for stopping by! I realize that my next share needs to be WAY more detailed so bear with me as I settle into this process. 

**This blog contains affiliate links from which I earn a small commission. I never recommend anything unless I wholeheartedly stand behind it and believe in it.  It is of no additional cost to you.