The days are finally growing longer, bit by bit (there was a hint of daylight left when I got out of work!), but light is still a premium resource. My numerous CFLs and even more numerous sparkly string lights are doing their best, but here are a few new ways to add light to your life.. More

I'm super keen on these illuminated houses. They'd add a touch of magic to any corner of your home, but this has got to be one of the best ideas for a kids' night light arrangement I can imagine. I'm picturing a mini village displayed on a bureau or a couple of dreamy chateaus erected on a bedside table. Such a clever and simple concept; plus, a snap to make. More

At first glance these lamps look like adorable, whimsical creatures. But take a second look — doesn't something about their shape seem familiar? That's because lighting design company ABYU (And Bob's Your Uncle) designed them all from upcycled plastic bottles. More

Traveling Light Globe Lamp

• $50
• ModCloth

If you're a fan of using maps as decor, how about this modern globe to provide a soft glow after dark. About 7" round and made from porcelain, it's a happy marriage of style and function.

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Animal Nightlights by Jonathan Adler

• $48
• Jonathan Adler

Attractive, small nightlights are hard to find as I discovered when I was shopping for one before my son was born. Adler to the rescue with his sophisticated and always playful take on things. The porcelain lion is my favorite and there's also a giraffe and an elephant.

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The nightlight in my daughter's room is a real mystery. Not only am I not sure where it came from, I am not sure what it is supposed to be. It is an odd cross between a Japanese lantern and a bad Hawaiian shirt, a vertical paper-ish structure of many colors. Hey, it works, so I have not given it much thought. Until I saw these. More

Glo Boy Solar Nightlight

• $30
• Half Pint Citizens

This modern nightlight is just the right amount of cutesy - kid friendly without being too babyish for older kids who want a nightlight, but may not want to admit it. I was especially impressed that Glo Boy runs completely on solar energy (up to 6 hours) so it's a light and science lesson in one package.

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Paranoid about Big Brother watching your every move? Look away. Because we're about to show you some crazy rad vintage cameras that have been turned into fully-functioning nightlights, complete with electronic eyes (so they'll turn on when it gets dark). And this is all the super-creative DIY side project of one man, who showcases his wares on Flickr. More

Having moved last week we realized just how bright it was in the bedroom and put up curtains throughout. Turning out the bedroom lights to turn in turned out not to really turn out the lights at all (say that ten times fast). Find out why couldn't we turn out the lights! More

Cable & Cotton String Lights

• $39-195
• Cable & Cotton

String lights are pretty, but string lights made from yarn wrapped bobbles are practically magical. The best part is you can choose your own colors (42 of them) and how many bulbs you want (in increments of 20). Handmade in Thailand (see a video of the process), I expect I'll see them popping up in your nurseries and kid's rooms any day now.

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