Design Notes
Since the invention of the light bulb, we have been able to brighten up our homes at any time of day. It has been great to eliminate shadows in areas where there are limited windows or even none at all, and allowed us to achieve more in a 24-hour period. Light fixtures have also developed from being just a practical tool into works of art, giving homeowners the chance to express themselves and add a touch of elegance to any room. Changing out a light fixture can completely alter or transform a room, and with so many sizes and styles, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. As we approach the close of another year, new lighting trends for 2022 could provide helpful information for selecting your next light fixture that will perfectly illuminate your home.
Jewelry In The Home
Light fixtures are a practical element in the home, but they have also been used as statement pieces and focal points in the room for decades. A well-chosen sconce, chandelier, or pendant can affect the aesthetics of any space, giving just the right amount of sparkle and glam. Whoever said functional can’t be exciting, too? Lighting influences the atmosphere of a room and impacts the overall look. When making your selection, keep these things in mind:
- Style: choose one that highlights your style.
- Purpose: Does it need to be the main source of light, or is it an accent piece?
- Size: This matters if you want to make it the main focal point of a room.
Like a good piece of jewelry, decorative lighting is meant to add elegance and beauty to existing elements in the space, such as artwork or specific furniture pieces. A well-chosen light fixture can transform an area from ordinary into extraordinary and refresh the entire room. It can also influence the decision of a buyer if you are looking to sell your home in the near future. Evaluate your home and consider if the lighting is giving you what you need.
Bold Light Fixtures
Bold light fixtures always make a statement and capture the attention of everyone who sees them. Going bold is a great way to create contrast in the room and can even animate a space. There are many materials and tones that can give you that bold look, such as:
- Dark fixtures against light furniture or vice versa
- Fixtures made from unique materials like glass or even wood
- Bright metals like bronze or brass
- Glass fixtures look stunning in a darker room
Choosing bold light fixtures is a fun way to draw attention to the center of the room or even certain areas with floor lamps, and it takes your design to another level. Bold colors represent vibrancy and look gorgeous in almost any area of the home. However, it is best used in moderation. One large, bold fixture or a few smaller ones bring what is needed to the space without overwhelming the area entirely. Don’t be afraid to choose something a little brighter or larger than you would normally, it could become your favorite piece of the design and add something you need. Check out these additional trends that break the mold in a blog from Apartment Therapy if you want something that will make your guests ’ eyes shine. Think about going with a bold choice for your light fixture in a main area of the home.
Delicate and Calm
While we just said bold light fixtures are a great choice, some trends point in the opposite direction. Some are designed to stand out and be seen, but some are simply meant to lend their quiet presence to the overall look of the room and function in a more supportive role. Some great examples of this include:
- Recessed or canned lighting
- Puck lighting
- Wall sconces
- Floor lamps
Bold and calm lighting can also function in the same room together, working to bring a unified look to the space. For example, a kitchen typically features a large light fixture over the island, but it is usually paired with recessed or task lighting to ensure that shadows are limited. Puck lighting is always a great choice to include with floating shelves as well, since it illuminates the area properly without taking away from the main fixture. The purpose of a space also impacts the choice of light fixtures, such as in a bedroom. We would prefer not to use the main light when we are trying to relax, but a wall sconce or table lamp gives the soft illumination necessary to relax. Home offices and living rooms are also great examples of softer light fixture choices. Remember that pairing the bold and the calm together often results in the perfect lighting balance for almost any area in the home.
Nature Inspired Light Fixtures
Biophilia continues to be a popular trend in the interior design world, including lighting. It is no wonder we love to let nature influence our home design since it is a place of calm and renewal for our souls. Some ways to have it are through:
- Material
- Shape
- Style
Materials such as glass, wood, and metal lend a sense of nature to the center of the home and make a beautiful statement. Many designers are also drawing inspiration from nature when it comes to the style and shape of light fixtures. From ornate leaves and petals to freestyle water, nature is lending its touch to multiple faucets in the home. Companies like Crystorama and Hudson Valley Lighting are showcasing new options that bring the outdoors calm inside our four walls. If you want a little calm elegance in the home, look no further than nature.
Smart Lighting
Smart home technology is trending with no signs of slowing down anytime soon. People love the convenience of turning off a light simply by tapping on an app or setting it on a timer. Smart light fixtures are a great choice for hard-to-reach areas, like the corner of the living room or family area. There is also peace of mind because if you forgot to turn off a light, you can immediately take care of it. Many companies are beginning to incorporate this into their light fixture, plus there are options like a smart plug that converts a floor or table lamp into a smart one simply by inserting it into the smart device. It can also be more effective and efficient for your home, so ask a designer about incorporating some of these elements into your design.
There are many elements that help assemble the perfect design for your space, such as color, texture, and pattern, but one, in particular, plays a key role in making a statement: the focal point. Without a focal point, a room can feel busy or even boring, as it lacks something that immediately draws the eye. This is one of the reasons it is essential to include a focal point in the design; however, given its critical role, sufficient thought should be given to placing it in the optimal location. How do you design the perfect focal point that stands out without overpowering everything else? How do you best use focal points in a room or design with it in mind? Let’s explore the answers to getting the most out of your focal point.
In today’s fast-paced world, there’s something special about slowing down and appreciating the timeless things—old roads, old friends, old traditions—that still hold so much value. Here in our little corner of North Carolina, Uptown Shelby continues to embrace those small-town treasures.
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Greenbrook Design
Greenbrook Design