Interior Design
Interior Design | Lighting Upgrades | Electrical | Charleston
Transform the warm, welcoming character of Charleston rooms with HEP’s fusion of design flair and electrical precision. Our team rewires the story your space tells—slipping sleek recessed cans into centuries-old ceilings, suspending statement pendants above Lowcountry kitchen islands, and adding dimmable accents that make every pluff-mud sunset glow even brighter. These lighting upgrades don’t just elevate aesthetics; they slash energy costs with high-efficiency LEDs and smart controls that learn your daily rhythms.
From concept sketches to the final flick of a switch, HEP coordinates seamlessly with builders, architects, and interior decorators, handling permits and code compliance so you can simply enjoy the show. Whether you’re modernizing a historic single or giving a new build its first sparkle, our licensed electricians deliver craftsmanship that’s as enduring as Charleston’s cobblestone streets—backed by transparent pricing and a satisfaction guarantee. Illuminate your life; schedule your consultation today.
FAQs
Why should I upgrade my interior lighting instead of simply replacing old bulbs?
A full lighting upgrade goes beyond swapping lamps. It modernizes the wiring, controls and fixtures to improve energy efficiency, safety and visual comfort. New dimmable LED fixtures can cut lighting energy use by 60–80 %, reduce maintenance because they last 10–20 years, and allow layered lighting scenes that enhance your home’s interior design. In Charleston’s humid coastal climate, upgraded fixtures also resist corrosion and help maintain proper color temperature so finishes and artwork look their best.
What kinds of electrical-lighting upgrades do you provide for Charleston homes and businesses?
Our licensed electricians and interior designers offer turnkey services that include: (1) LED retrofits for recessed cans, pendants and chandeliers; (2) installation of smart dimmers, occupancy sensors and whole-home lighting control systems; (3) under-cabinet, cove and accent lighting to highlight architectural features; (4) low-voltage cable or track lighting for galleries and retail spaces; (5) code-compliant rewiring, new circuits and panel capacity checks; and (6) decorative fixture selection that complements Lowcountry styles—from historic downtown homes to modern coastal condos.
Do I need a permit for interior lighting upgrades in Charleston, and do you handle the paperwork?
Most projects that involve new wiring, circuit additions or alterations of existing electrical systems require an Electrical Permit from the City of Charleston or Charleston County Building Department. As a licensed electrical contractor, we prepare the drawings, submit permit applications, coordinate plan reviews and schedule inspections for you. Simpler one-for-one fixture replacements without wiring changes may be exempt, but we always verify current code requirements (NEC 2023 and local amendments) before work begins.
How much energy (and money) can I expect to save with an LED lighting upgrade?
In Charleston’s mixed-humid climate, lighting can represent 15–20 % of a home’s annual electricity use. Replacing incandescent or halogen fixtures with high-efficiency LEDs typically lowers wattage by 70 % and produces far less heat, which also eases the load on your air-conditioning system. Homeowners commonly see overall electric bills drop by 10–15 %. Commercial clients may qualify for Santee Cooper or Dominion Energy rebates, cutting payback periods to 18–30 months.
How long will the upgrade take, and can I stay in my home or keep my business open during the work?
A single-room makeover can be completed in one day. Whole-home lighting renovations usually span 2–5 days, depending on ceiling access and fixture quantity. We protect furnishings with drop cloths, isolate work zones to control dust, and schedule noisy tasks outside business hours when requested. For retail and hospitality clients in downtown Charleston, we can phase work to keep revenue-generating areas open and fully operational.
What is the cost range for a professional lighting upgrade and how do I get a precise quote?
Small projects such as adding dimmers and retrofitting 8–10 recessed cans start around $1,200–$1,800. A mid-size whole-kitchen upgrade with under-cabinet LEDs, decorative pendants and new circuits typically runs $3,500–$6,000. Comprehensive whole-home packages that include smart controls and fixture procurement can range from $8,000 to $25,000, depending on fixture selection and ceiling access. We offer free on-site consultations in the Charleston metro area; after assessing your existing wiring, design goals and budget, we deliver a detailed, line-item estimate within 48 hours.