How often do you think about lightbulbs other than when you have to change them? We would guess rarely. Yet this workhorse of home illumination can be beautiful in its own right. Showcasing your bulbs is a way to appreciate tech old and new.

1. Plumen 001 ($29.95)
Even if you haven't been looking for bare bulbs you've probably heard of the Plumen, which has received a lot of attention recently for making a CFL that's aesthetically pleasing. If you're looking to make the switch to more environmentally friendly lighting Plumen's 001 certainly deserves a showcase. And while we don't like that it doesn't dim like an incandescent or LED, it's still got a slightly warm glow.

2. Deco Bulb ($52+)
A truly beautiful set of bulbs, these Dutch works of lighting art are painted by hand. They come in a variety of different looks, some in limited runs with a max wattage of 40W. We could see these making an excellent outdoor fixture.

3. Lamp / Lamp ($30)
Lamp / Lamp looks like you're getting two for the price of one, but of course it's a single bulb. The bulb is pretty low draw at 30W and fits into a couple of different base stations to make a lamp if you'd prefer not to use it elsewhere. We can't think of a more straight forward way to draw attention to the bulb.

4. Globe Pendant ($99-269)
We like the old school look of these globe pendants from West Elm, they remind us of old architect/photography studios. They do a good job of adding something to the bare bulb concept without taking away from the idea we're going for. And they take a 60W bulb.

5. DIY Bubble Chandalier ($75)
Originally for ReadyMade Magazine, this chandelier can be made with off the shelf parts including bulbs from CB2. We like it because it can be as large or small as you need it, so be it over your breakfast nook or your feasting tables it'll do the job. Or you can purchase them from the project's designer on Etsy.

MORE LIGHTING ON APARTMENT THERAPY
• Outdoor Lighting Inspiration: Use Lots of Jars
• All White Lighting: Elegant Solutions for Under $100
• How To Install Track Lighting & Improve Your Kitchen

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