We finally decided on low-voltage track lighting for the basement bar area. A 150-watt flexible track system with four 35-watt lamps priced out at $1200. A 150-watt straight track with four less decorative 35-watt lamps added another $400. Wow.

The allure of low-voltage systems is the ability to use smaller halogen bulbs, which has led to some really creative, edgy lamps. Which cost a million bucks.

We went with Tech Lighting for the flex track and Juno for the straight.

We made it through the hurricane unscratched, getting our power back after about twelve hours. Some of our neighbors weren't so lucky - a few photos here.