Design Styles to Inspire Your Lighting Choices

Retro Chic Design and Lighting

This can also be referred to as retro styling or shabby chic.  In the truest sense this is a combination of old with new to create a rustic look which is both faded but glamorous. A design style which seems to have evolved over time from old pieces of furniture which have been overhauled and updated in a sensitive way (think paint distressing and sanded furniture). Lighting will be charismatic and classy but not the main feature of the room, the look will be cohesive and stylish as though little effort has been given to it but in reality each piece will have been considered to complement the overall look.

Industrial Post-War Ceiling and Wall Lighting

This is a style which would originally have been found in factories or warehouses - think stripped back areas with exposed bricks, concrete beams. A utilitarian style which would have used lighting with strong lines and forms, nothing whimsy or fancy but practical. Rugged, textured walls and surfaces help create an industrial style to home, you may want concrete floors and exposed brickwork which is equally stark yet warm. So think of a kitchen for example with unplastered walls, beams and high ceiling and you will immediately want an industrial style ceiling light, bar light or similar to enhance the space and design.

Art Deco Table Lamps and Ceiling Lights

Also referred to as Deco this style is a period of design which first appeared in France in the 1910s and flourished in Europe from the 1930s. Art Deco is a beautiful design period characterised by designs which sweep and curve luxuriously in bold colours. A style which brings glamour and luxury to the forefront and has a certain order by the use of symmetrical designs, intricate lines and layered shapes. The Manhattan Empire State building in New York is a wonderful example of Art Deco styling as is the English Heritage House in Eltham Palace.  You can create a little of the Art Deco design in your own home by choosing a table lamp for a side table or a ceiling light to echo the style of the period.

Art Nouveau

This is the French term for new art. A design which was impacted and inspired by Art Deco. Used in a multitude of ways from interior design to jewellery to glass and more. The Art Nouveau design style is characterised by its use of nature designs such as flowers, leaves and plants to create fluid and interesting patterns. William Morris is the famous initiator of the design period who dedicated his life to the arts and crafts movement. The famous Sagrada Familia in Barcelona (designed by Gaudi) was inspired by nature and shows the fluid lines and patterns so typical of the Art Nouveau period. If you want to translate this design style into your home choose lighting products which are swirly with fluid lines, with interesting patterns and intricacy.

Scandi and Japandi Pendants and Ceiling Light

Scandi, or Scandinavian to give its full title, is a design scheme which has been popular from the 1950s when its style first came to be. Featuring a sleek and pared back design with minimal frippery yet with luxurious items such as soft rugs and throws the design quietly shouts relaxation and calmness. Often neutral in colour but with a touch of warmth from wood the design is minimal and seemingly simple yet much thought will have been given to the placement of cleverly designed pieces which are pleasing on the eye and functional. Serene, neutral, calming so lighting for this scheme should follow those guidelines.

Japandi is a relatively new trend, this is Scandinavian meets Japan, hence Japandi! Featuring similar design ideas to Scandi yet the style is more about elegant minimalism as well as the calming effect of a non-cluttered room. Focusing on being minimalist will help you achieve this look especially if you bring wood and light colours into the mix. A tricky style maybe to achieve but once acquired it will help bring order to your life.

Minimalist Design and Lighting Inspirations

Exactly as the name states, minimalist style is one which focus on minimal, removing the unnecessary and retaining only the things that bring real value and joy to a space. Characterised by simplicity and a monochrome palette with scant colour which may be used as an accent only. It The minimalist space may be open plan with lots of light and functional furniture pieces. Lighting will be functional and simple in form yet timeless and pleasing focusing on texture, shape and colour.  The monochrome design style also falls under this category.

British Made Lighting Products

How we love to support British Made. This is a factor for many - knowing they are supporting a local industry which in turn helps with its carbon footprint - support local.