I gave my gaming setup a Govee glow-up for a price Hue wouldn’t believe

The author explores the feasibility and benefits of using a mini PC, specifically the Framework Desktop, for living room gaming as an alternative to traditional consoles or bulky gaming PCs. The discussion begins by acknowledging the advantages of PC gaming, such as cheaper games and customizable settings, but also highlights the drawback of being confined to a desk, unlike console players who can game from their couches. The author, having a family, finds a large gaming desktop impractical for the living room due to space constraints, potential damage risks, and aesthetic concerns. The article notes a shift in the author's testing and reviewing habits, moving away from large desktop gaming PCs towards mini PCs, particularly due to the rising costs of graphics cards and components. Surprisingly, many mini PCs tested have demonstrated the capability to run PC games effectively. The Framework Desktop, a modular and highly customizable mini PC, is identified as a potential solution for a discreet yet powerful living room gaming setup. The author details their experience using this mini PC with a 65-inch TV from their couch over a week. Framework, known for its repairable and upgradeable laptops, introduced a modular mini PC that sparked the author's interest. Unlike most mini PCs, the Framework Desktop requires initial assembly, which the author found enjoyable and straightforward, as the motherboard, CPU, and RAM come pre-installed. Users only need to add storage and a CPU fan. The modularity extends to customization options, including side panels and a unique front panel with slots for 21 different tiles, allowing users to select various ports like USB-A, USB-C, SD, and microSD card readers using Framework's Expansion Cards. Setting up the Framework Desktop involves installing an operating system, with both Windows and Linux supported. The author chose Windows 11 but mentions Linux distributions like Bazzite as viable options for a living room gaming PC. An optional carrying handle, still under development by Framework, is highlighted as a feature that would further enhance the mini PC's portability between rooms or for travel. The compact design of the Framework Desktop allows it to fit easily into an entertainment center, addressing ventilation concerns encountered with traditional consoles due to its side-expelled heat. A standard PC power cable is used, offering convenience and affordability for replacements. For input, the author opted for a Keychron K2 HE wireless mechanical keyboard and a mini trackball mouse, aiming for a refined aesthetic in the remodeled living room. Gaming on the Framework Desktop is primarily done with a PC game controller. The resolution was adjusted to match the TV, and demanding games were tested. The performance was unexpectedly impressive, particularly when utilizing AMD's Radeon Super Resolution and FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) technologies. These features enabled smooth and steady frame rates of 60 fps in titles like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, even on a 4K display, without noticeable imperfections from a couch viewing distance. The Framework Desktop is equipped with an AMD Ryzen AI Max 385 or Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor and 32GB to 128GB of LPDDR5x memory. It is capable of handling diverse workloads, from web browsing and office tasks to photo/video editing and local AI models. Unlike many gaming mini PCs, it relies on an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) that integrates the CPU and GPU, reducing costs, saving space, and consuming less power. This integrated graphics solution proved surprisingly capable for 4K gaming, challenging the notion that dedicated GPUs are always necessary. The article concludes by emphasizing the flexibility the Framework Desktop offers. While a console might be a cheaper initial investment for gaming, the mini PC's versatility allows it to function as a work machine, a photo/video editing station, and a gaming rig. The author values the ability to easily move the device between their office and living room, facilitating big-screen gaming sessions. Priced from $1,099, the Framework Desktop is positioned as a crossover product between a standard mini PC and a small form factor desktop, simplifying PC building for beginners while offering extensive customization options through its modular design and future accessories. #MiniPC #GamingPC #FrameworkDesktop #AMD #IntegratedGraphics #4KGaming #ModularPC #CouchGaming #PCBuild #AMD_FSR

The article discusses the challenges faced by sim racing enthusiasts who live in small apartments, particularly concerning the size and storage of racing sim rigs. It highlights the common dilemma of balancing comfort with convenience in sim racing setups, noting that many high-end rigs are impractical for compact living spaces due to their imposing size and cost. The author recounts personal experiences with a less-than-ideal racing seat, the Next Level Racing GT-Lite, which proved uncomfortable after extended use and difficult to fold and store despite being advertised as such. The core of the article focuses on a solution: the Playseat Challenge X. This racing seat is presented as an ideal upgrade for those with limited space and budget. It strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, being easily foldable and storable in a cupboard within minutes. The Playseat Challenge X is also praised for its effective cable management. The article emphasizes the importance of a discreet setup, especially when entertaining guests, to avoid awkward conversations and the perception that sim racing gear is merely a toy. Key features of the Playseat Challenge X are detailed, including its adjustability to six seating positions, allowing users to adapt to various driving postures, such as the higher touring car position or the lower F1 bucket seat. This versatility enhances the immersive experience for different racing simulations. The pedal placement can also be adjusted to two angles, optimizing control for techniques like trail braking. The seat is made with Actifit breathable knit fabric, which provides cushioning and ventilation, preventing discomfort during long gaming sessions. Despite its advantages, the article acknowledges one minor drawback: its weight of 25.6 pounds, which requires some effort to move for storage. However, this is considered a small price to pay for the overall convenience and comfort it offers. The author concludes by highly recommending the Playseat Challenge X to sim racing fans who lack the space for larger, more expensive rigs, asserting its value for its price, adjustability, and balance of comfort and convenience across various racing challenges, from quick sprints to endurance events. #SimRacing #RacingSimSeats #PlayseatChallengeX #GamingSetup #SpaceSaving #Comfort #Convenience #TechReview

The author discusses the challenges of owning a large, permanent racing simulator rig, citing issues with space and cost. The author initially used a Next Level Racing GT-Lite, which proved to be uncomfortable after extended use and difficult to fold and store, contrary to its advertised convenience. This led to social awkwardness when guests noticed the rig in the living room, drawing unwanted attention and judgment from those unfamiliar with sim racing as a hobby. The search for a more practical solution led to the discovery of the Playseat Challenge X. This racing seat is highlighted as a significant upgrade due to its ability to balance comfort and convenience effectively. It addresses the primary concerns of limited living space and the need for easy storage. The Playseat Challenge X can be set up or folded away in approximately two minutes, making it highly suitable for individuals living in smaller homes or apartments. Its lightweight design, weighing 25.6 pounds, allows for relatively easy movement and storage in a cupboard, eliminating the visual clutter and social discomfort associated with a permanent setup. Beyond its compact and foldable design, the Playseat Challenge X offers versatility and comfort. It features six adjustable seating positions, allowing users to customize their posture for different racing styles, from touring cars to Formula 1. The pedal placement can also be adjusted to two different angles, which enhances control over acceleration and braking, crucial for precise maneuvers like trail braking in games such as Assetto Corsa Competizione. The seat is constructed with Actifit breathable knit fabric, providing comfort and ventilation during long racing sessions. Additionally, the steering wheel and gear stick can be flexibly positioned on the front plate, further contributing to a personalized and immersive racing experience. The author concludes that the Playseat Challenge X is an ideal choice for sim racing enthusiasts who lack the space or budget for larger, more elaborate setups. Its combination of affordability, adjustability, comfort, and easy storage makes it a practical solution for daily use, catering to various racing preferences, whether quick sprints, time trials, or endurance challenges. This upgrade transforms the sim racing experience by allowing users to enjoy their hobby without compromising living space or inviting external scrutiny. #Gaming #SimRacing #PlayseatChallengeX #GamingPeripherals #RacingSimRig #HomeSetup #ProductReview #Logitech

A woman has successfully transformed her council house kitchen for under £70, utilizing budget-friendly items from B&M; to achieve a modern and clean aesthetic. This DIY enthusiast, who also revamped her bathroom previously, documented her kitchen makeover on social media, showcasing a significant improvement from its original state. The transformation specifically targeted nicotine-stained tiles and dark, dull countertops and cupboards. For the cupboard and tile painting, the woman used Johnstone's paint, available for approximately £15 at B&M.; A key enabler of the painting process was a £2 mini roller tray set, also from B&M;, which facilitated a smoother and faster application compared to traditional brushes. The original brown cupboards were painted white, and the nicotine-stained tiles were also refreshed with white paint, significantly brightening the space. To address the countertops, marble-effect d-c-fix vinyl wrap was applied, converting the previously dark and uninspiring surfaces into stylish and modern ones. Additionally, the existing handles were spray-painted black, providing a contemporary contrast against the newly painted white cupboards. The overall process involved thoroughly cleaning the cupboard sides and doors, removing handles, painting the surfaces and tiles, and then applying the vinyl wrap. Her social media post, under the username @homeat46, quickly garnered over 23,400 views, with many users expressing admiration for the budget-conscious renovation. Comments highlighted the kitchen's transformation into a "much brighter and beautiful" space. The woman acknowledged that while the makeover was not "perfect," it was a substantial improvement from its original condition, demonstrating that significant aesthetic changes can be achieved without a large financial outlay. Beyond the specific makeover details, the article also provides general advice for undertaking budget-friendly home renovations, suggesting that inspiration can be drawn from more expensive stores while purchasing from discount retailers like B&M; and Home Bargains. It also recommends utilizing YouTube tutorials for DIY guidance to avoid professional costs and advocates for using stick-on vinyl for tiles and a fresh coat of paint for an instant room refresh. Replacing kitchen cupboard knobs is also suggested as a cost-effective way to update the look of existing cabinetry. The article further includes information on how to apply for council housing and the rules governing improvements tenants can make to their council properties, differentiating between introductory and secure tenancies and the types of work that may require council permission. #CouncilHouse #KitchenMakeover #BudgetDIY #HomeTransformation #BMHaul #VinylWrap #HomeInteriors #MoneySaving #JohnstonesPaint

The article highlights an effective and affordable DIY solution for repairing scratches on wooden kitchen cabinets and other wooden furniture. The product, a DEWEL Furniture Markers Touch Up, Upgrade Wood Furniture Repair Kit, is presented as a quick and easy method to restore the appearance of wooden surfaces, particularly useful for preparing homes for events like Thanksgiving. The kit, priced at $15.99 (originally $18.99) on Amazon, includes 17 pieces: eight touch-up markers and eight wax sticks, along with a sharpener. These components are designed to conceal minor scratches, visible dents, cracks, discoloration, holes, and separation gaps in wood. The application process for this repair kit is described as straightforward. Users are instructed to color over scratch marks with the markers, which then dry rapidly. The wax sticks can be used as scratch fillers. The product is not limited to kitchen cabinets but is also suitable for various other wooden furniture items. The article includes a testimonial from Lucy Searle, Content Director at Livingetc, who used the pens on her pale wooden kitchen cabinets, an entryway table, a home office desk, and a chest of drawers. She reported that the process took only 20 minutes for the kitchen cabinets and found the tool easy and quick to use, yielding satisfactory results. Key advice for successful application includes ensuring the wooden surface is clean and free of grease or polish, as these can repel the pen's ink. In some cases, a very fine sandpaper might be needed to prepare tiny areas around deeper scratches. After the pen dries, a coat of varnish can be applied, especially to high-traffic areas like entryway tables, to enhance durability. A crucial tip for achieving an invisible repair is to test the marker on a less visible scratch first for color-matching. This allows users to find the closest shade or even mix two or three colors to achieve a more natural blend that seamlessly integrates with the existing wood tone. The DEWEL Furniture Markers Touch Up, Upgrade Wood Furniture Repair Kit has garnered positive feedback from over 2,600 reviews on Amazon, achieving an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate its functionality and ease of use, noting its effectiveness across diverse applications. Reviewers specifically highlighted the significant improvement in the appearance of older furniture. While acknowledging that the results may not be absolutely perfect, many found the outcome to be a substantial enhancement. Some users preferred the markers over the wax pencils, emphasizing the importance of careful application to avoid mistakes, as the marker touch-up can be difficult to remove if applied incorrectly. The ability to mix colors for a more natural look was also a positive point among users. In summary, the article promotes the DEWEL Furniture Markers Touch Up, Upgrade Wood Furniture Repair Kit as a practical, inexpensive, and user-friendly solution for addressing common cosmetic imperfections in wooden furniture. It provides detailed instructions, expert tips, and customer endorsements to support its utility for DIY home improvement, helping users maintain the aesthetic appeal of their wooden pieces with minimal effort and cost. #KitchenCabinets #WoodFurnitureRepair #DIYHomeImprovement #ScratchRemover #HomeDecor #FurnitureMaintenance #ProductReview

This article details the author's experience revamping their desk setup using the Hexcal Studio, an advanced workstation designed for cable management, integrated power, and lighting. The author, a reviewer of standing desks and home office accessories, typically avoids major changes to their main desk but was compelled to reorganize their workspace after unboxing the Hexcal Studio. The Hexcal Studio is introduced as more than just a desk shelf or monitor stand; it functions as a discreet cable management system. It features a built-in LED light strip with 16 levels of temperature and intensity control, a mode button, and a favorite button for saving preferred lighting configurations. A key feature is the sliding panel in the middle, which reveals a 40-inch long, 6-inch wide, and 1.6-inch deep cord storage chamber. This compartment is designed to house power bricks and route cables, offering a solution for cluttered desks, especially those where traditional cable management trays are impractical. The device comes with standard legs that provide 1.4 inches of space underneath, with optional extenders that increase the height to 7.1 inches and offer 2.5 inches of space. Additionally, two USB ports are located on the interior left side of the cord storage chamber. The rear of the Hexcal Studio includes eight AC outlets: four for standard plugs and two on either side for bulkier power adapters. Grooves with rubber inserts along the top and locks on the sides secure the removable center panel. The author explains that this design significantly reduces cable clutter by allowing power bricks and excess cables to be stored within the unit itself, providing a much cleaner aesthetic compared to typical under-desk cable trays. The process of revamping the desk involved significant changes. The author replaced an aging gaming PC with a mini PC to conserve space, aligning with the Hexcal Studio's compact design. Audioengine A2+ speakers were placed on either side of the unit, positioned for optimal ear-level sound. The author notes that the initial setup took about seven hours, partly due to an attempt to switch to a fixed monitor arm which proved too short, leading to a return to the original adjustable arm. The article emphasizes the meticulous organization of power bricks and cables within the Hexcal Studio's storage chamber, highlighting how the rubber gripping keeps items secure. It also mentions the utility of the USB bridging ports, which allow external hard drives or card readers to be connected and discreetly managed. Further enhancements to the desk setup included replacing a wired, split keyboard with a wireless Keychron V1 Max and using an Elecom IST Trackball mouse. An Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen) was added for time management and monitoring home security cameras. A desk mat was used for aesthetic appeal and surface protection. The Hexcal Studio also features two wireless chargers, one for a smartphone and another for earbuds, and external USB-C and USB-A ports for charging devices. The author also implemented a portable monitor setup, connecting it to the mini PC via a USB-C cable kept under the Hexcal Studio for easy access when additional screen space is needed. While praising the Hexcal Studio for its aesthetic and functional improvements, the author acknowledges its significant cost of $900, positioning it as a premium accessory primarily for professional desk spaces or specific high-end users. The product is deemed ideal for individuals like music producers, graphic designers, or executives who require a highly organized workspace without extensive DIY cable management. A suggested improvement for future versions or add-ons is a built-in laptop docking station. For those with a more constrained budget, the Anker 675 USB-C Docking Station is suggested as an alternative that offers similar functionality at a lower price point. #DeskSetup #CableManagement #HomeOffice #TechAccessories #HexcalStudio #Workstation #SmartHome #Productivity #MonitorStand

More than half of Americans experience digital eye strain, with inadequate lighting being a significant contributing factor. Screen brightness often surpasses ambient light, forcing eyes to constantly adjust, leading to discomfort. Traditional lighting solutions, such as overhead fixtures and desk lamps, are often ineffective in modern desktop environments, casting glares and shadows that exacerbate the problem rather than alleviating it. These solutions are not designed to illuminate the workspace evenly around a computer monitor. The Quntis Monitor Light Bar PRO+ is presented as a solution to this prevalent issue. This accessory clips onto the top of a monitor, providing uniform illumination across the desktop setup. The author's personal experience indicates a significant reduction in eye strain after incorporating a light bar into their home office. The consistent brightness level across the desk, matching that of the monitor, has proven beneficial for extended computer use. The Quntis Monitor Light Bar PRO+ is a 20-inch LED panel capable of achieving a maximum illuminance of 1200 lux, which is more than double the American National Standard Practice recommendation for an office environment. It offers 45-degree adjustable rotation and is designed for easy installation; it simply rests on the monitor's top edge and is secured by a counterweight, requiring no adhesives or screws. It is compatible with most flat and curved monitors with a thickness between 0.12 and 2.36 inches and connects via a USB-A port. While many light bars feature integrated controls, the Quntis PRO+ model includes a wireless remote in the form of a puck. This remote allows users to effortlessly toggle the light bar on and off, adjust color temperature with the upper dial, and control brightness with the lower dial. A double tap activates the built-in ambient sensor for automatic light tuning. The remote enhances the user experience by providing convenient and tactile control, allowing for quick adjustments between warm and cool lighting to suit different times of day or preferences. A key advantage of the monitor light bar over conventional desk lamps is its ability to direct light downward and away from the screen. This design brightens the surrounding area without causing glare or shadows on the monitor itself, which are common issues with desk lamps. For individuals who frequently refer to physical documents while working on a computer, this directed lighting can reduce the effort required to focus on text, potentially alleviating eye dryness. Furthermore, the light bar's placement above the monitor conserves valuable desk space, a practical benefit for cluttered workstations. Although various light bars are available, with performance largely depending on quality and price, some brands offer distinct features. Quntis, for instance, also produces a double-sided light bar that incorporates an RGB strip on its back for ambient backlighting, suitable for gaming setups. However, this model sacrifices some length and customization options for weight reduction, offering only three temperature and brightness modes and lacking a remote control. For primary use in reducing eye strain, the PRO+ model or similar products like BenQ’s ScreenBar, despite its higher cost, are recommended due to their superior adjustability and features focused on visual comfort. #HomeOffice #MonitorLightBar #EyeStrain #LightingSolutions #Ergonomics #Quntis #DeskSetup #ProductReview

Govee introduces its latest smart lighting collection, a collaboration with the iconic anime series _Neon Genesis Evangelion_, designed to enhance gaming setups and living spaces. This collection features three distinct products: the Gaming Wall Light, Glide Y Lights, and Gaming Light Bars, all meticulously designed with _Evangelion_'s signature EVA-01 color scheme and motifs. The review highlights Govee's attention to detail, evident from the themed packaging to the intricate designs on each light, which impressed the reviewer, a long-time fan of the anime. The Gaming Wall Light stands out as the collection's centerpiece, boasting a futuristic dual-layered construction with a cybernetic translucent faceplate, dynamic backlighting, and an elevated strip of diffused light. Its modular design allows for various configurations, such as hexagons reminiscent of the AT Field or the Spear of Longinus from the series. This light offers eight special _Evangelion_-themed lighting effects that simulate battle sequences, including alert modes, AT Field activations, and Berserk status, with specific themes for EVA-01 and EVA-02. Beyond these themed effects, the Gaming Wall Light provides extensive customization options through the Govee app, allowing users to control separate light zones, apply multiple dynamic effects, and choose from 16 million color combinations. The Glide Y Lights, featuring a unique Y-shaped design, complement the Gaming Wall Light. This set of five individual lights can be arranged in various patterns, maintaining the _Evangelion_ aesthetic and offering flexibility for wall arrangements, including the ability to wrap around corners. While the core functionality is similar to other Govee lights, the themed designs and custom collaboration lighting patterns elevate these lights, making them particularly appealing to fans. The reviewer notes that while the intricate details might be lost on those unfamiliar with the anime, the unique collaboration justifies the investment for enthusiasts. Completing the collection are the Gaming Light Bars, a simple two-light set designed for placement on desks or behind monitors. These bars provide ambient lighting that reacts to on-screen activity and feature _Evangelion_-inspired colors and effects. Although their design is less prominent than the other lights due to their typical placement, Govee maintained its high standard of detail. Setting up the lights is straightforward, with all necessary components included and guidance provided through the Govee app for design concepts and connections. The lights utilize a forgiving Velcro-like attachment system, allowing for minor adjustments during installation. The Govee x Evangelion collection, while positioned at a premium price point (Gaming Wall Light at $199.99, Glide Y Lights at $179.99, and Gaming Light Bars at $89.99), is deemed worthwhile for fans due to its deep customization, unique _Evangelion_ theming, and seamless integration with Govee's smart ecosystem. The reviewer concludes that the collection is a brilliant fusion of iconic anime aesthetics and advanced lighting technology, making it a valuable addition for both _Evangelion_ devotees and those seeking innovative lighting solutions, and expresses a desire to incorporate them into their home gaming setup. #Govee #Evangelion #GamingLights #SmartLighting #AnimeThemed #TechReview #GamingSetup #HomeDecor #CustomizableLighting

Chelsea Harris, a copywriter for Schoolhouse, successfully transformed her plain white rental bedroom in Portland, Oregon, into a cottage-worthy space for under $500. This renovation was part of a larger effort to update her circa-1940s apartment, which she moved into to reduce rent expenses and enjoy historic charm. She had previously renovated her galley kitchen with checkerboard floors, painting lower cabinets yellow, adding a peg rail, and applying butcher block-inspired contact paper. Following this, she tackled her bathroom, where she installed a beadboard wall and decorated it with pink accents. The bedroom was her final frontier for adding color and personal touch, aiming to keep costs under $500. Harris adopted an "ask-forgiveness-not-permission" approach to decorating her rental, prioritizing a comfortable living space over concerns about her security deposit. Her bedroom makeover began with choosing a paint color, a process she found challenging. She ultimately selected Behr's Nature’s Gift, a sage green hue, and applied two to three coats directly to the walls without priming. The initial painting process in gloomy Portland weather required later touch-ups in natural sunlight to ensure full coverage. The next step involved adding a subtle wallpaper. Harris lived with the newly painted room for several months before deciding on a wallpaper that would significantly change the space. She opted for the Ric Rac wallpaper from Spoonflower, noting its small-scale squiggles that appear as a solid color from a distance, which suited her preference given her existing plaid rug. Calculating the necessary amount of peel-and-stick wallpaper was straightforward using the website's tools. Installation took approximately two and a half hours, complicated slightly by slanted walls, which required careful painting of the ceiling trim to create a visually straight line for the wallpaper. To address the wallpaper appearing a bit short and to add a traditional touch, Harris installed a wide piece of trim from Home Depot along the bottom edge of the wallpaper. This process involved two hours of painting the trim due to its crevices and then mounting it with a nail gun. For storage, she utilized free shelves from a friend who was moving. These shelves were integrated above a reading corner, providing additional storage without adding bulky furniture. To create a cohesive, built-in look, she painted the shelves and their Amazon-sourced brackets the same sage green color as the walls. Finally, Harris incorporated gauzy curtains from IKEA and brass curtain rods from Target. She already owned the curtain rods, which complemented her desired warm brass accents. The sheer nature of the curtains was intentional, allowing for privacy while still letting in natural light, a crucial consideration for a room without abundant light. She also repainted a thrifted wardrobe, which had a poor sponge-paint finish, to match the room's aesthetic. This wardrobe, along with a living room closet, serves as primary clothing storage, as her partner uses the main bedroom closet as a workspace. Harris primarily executed the DIY aspects of the renovation, with her partner moving in after much of the work was completed, benefiting from the updated space. #RentalRenovation #BedroomMakeover #DIYDecor #BudgetDesign #SageGreen #PeelAndStickWallpaper #PortlandHome #CottageStyle #HomeRenovation

The author addresses the common issue of overly bright overhead lighting, often referred to as the "big light," which can make a room feel less cozy and more like a hospital environment. Many people, especially renters, struggle with these fixtures as they often cannot be easily replaced or modified. Interior designers frequently advise using alternative ambient light sources such as floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces to avoid the harshness of overhead lights. The search for a more aesthetically pleasing solution led the author to discover "flush mount conversion kits," which are essentially decorative lampshades designed to cover existing ceiling fixtures. However, the author found these options to be surprisingly expensive, with popular choices like Tulip Shades ranging from $116 to $375, a price point deemed too high for a simple ceiling lamp modification. This prompted a creative shift towards a DIY approach. The inspiration for the DIY project came from the minimalist and airy designs of Isamu Noguchi's Akari light sculptures from the 1950s. These designs blend traditional Japanese lantern materials with contemporary style, offering a soft, diffused light. While authentic Akari lights retail for around $600, the author realized that a similar effect could be achieved with a much more affordable rice paper lantern. A large, white paper lantern, suitable for covering a 12-inch diameter light fixture, was purchased for just $17.95. To emulate the natural, slightly beige hue of Noguchi's lights, the author decided to dye the white paper lantern using black tea, a technique remembered from elementary school art projects. This idea was reinforced by a TikTok creator, @treviestyles, who had successfully used tea to stain a paper lantern for a similar Noguchi-inspired look. The process involved brewing strong black tea, pouring it into a spray bottle, and evenly dampening the lantern with the tea solution. The lantern was sprayed twice, with a 30-minute drying period in between coats, to achieve a slightly saturated, antique beige color. The next step was to attach the dyed paper lantern to the existing ceiling light fixture. Craft wire was used to secure the lantern. An initial challenge arose when the wire expanders of the lantern interfered with the installation. However, it was discovered that the tea-dyeing process had inadvertently helped the lantern retain its expanded shape, allowing for the removal of the expanders and easier placement over the fixture. Despite some awkward maneuvering required to attach the large lantern to the high ceiling, the installation was successful. The final result was a transformed overhead light that now emits a softer, warmer glow, effectively mitigating the harshness of the original fixture. The rounded shape of the lantern also provided a pleasing contrast to the room's straight lines. The entire DIY project cost less than $30, representing a significant saving compared to commercial conversion kits or authentic designer lamps. The author expresses great satisfaction with the outcome, considering it a highly effective and budget-friendly solution that offers a significant aesthetic and functional improvement, making the space feel cozier and more inviting. #DIYHomeDecor #OverheadLighting #NoguchiInspired #BudgetFriendly #PaperLantern #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesignHack #RentalFriendly #AmbientLighting