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.
Will kitchen islands go out of style? The answer is no. The kitchen island is often the focal point in the kitchen and one of the most sought-after features in a kitchen renovation; in fact, it is one of the most versatile areas in the kitchen. Need a place to do some homework? How about a family dinner or brunch? Looking for a surface where you can spread out when cooking? Some extra storage for large pots and mixers would be nice, too. All of this and more can be accomplished with a kitchen island; some might even call it a mini kitchen within the kitchen. This flexible workstation can be created to reflect any style, accommodate any size, and suit any need. Today, we want to answer some common questions about the kitchen island, explore the benefits, and explain why it will never go out of style.
As the COVID-19 pandemic slowly comes to an end, you may be ready to update your home and make a few changes. Perhaps being stuck inside during lockdowns gave you time to identify areas that needed cleaning, upgrading, or other home improvements. If you want to start rebuilding your house but aren’t sure how to get started, see how these tips can help, brought to you courtesy of Greenbrook Design.
Walker Woodworking When space is limited, it is valuable and greater thought is invested in creating a design that maximizes square footage to provide a functional space for the homeowner. Both manufacturers and designers alike are continuously thinking of new ways to give their clients the things they need, but using less space. One such item is the Murphy bed, yes, the one used in multiple comedy routines, but it has evolved into a stylish piece, yet remains as functional as ever. It is also comparable in price point to a traditional bed. Could the Murphy bed be the solution to your limited space problem? Let’s unpack exactly what it is and how it can help give you additional room in your home.
Walker Woodworking What to do when you don’t have the luxury of square footage? How can you create storage when there is not a lot of room, to begin with? Can you make small spaces work for you? These are good questions that we have helped our clients answer numerous times. While it may present more challenges than a larger home, it is possible to have the necessary storage for you to keep everything you need on hand. Small is not bad; in fact, it comes with multiple benefits, and a good design can help you maximize the space you do have to build a home that is exactly right for you. Let’s talk about some creative storage solutions for small spaces.
Walker Woodworking We always say details matter, and that goes beyond a project. Your home is filled with details that tell your guests who you are and what matters to you. Artwork, pottery pieces, and furniture are just a few things that give homeowners a chance to show off their style. Another area is hosting, and tablescapes have become a beautiful, fun way to share your own unique design choices with family and friends. Whether it is for a small gathering to enjoy time with those you love or to celebrate a special occasion, there are many ways to create the perfect look. By combining different colors, patterns, or materials, you can create a tablescape that will dazzle your guests, whether you prefer an elaborate or simple design.
Greenbrook Design
Greenbrook Design