Each year new design trends are announced with the intention of highlighting what many homeowners and interior designers have enjoyed using or even a new way to use a traditional material or method. Another bonus to trend announcements is how it can become the spark needed to create the perfect space for someone. When it comes to refreshing your space or designing a brand new one, lighting plays a vital role in the process. Sufficient lighting ought to be a chief concern in any area of the home as it can help minimize eye strain and even lessen stress and accidents. As they are such a main component in interior design it is worth browsing the newest trends that have been announced for 2023. The line up features a wide variety of sizes and styles that can be used throughout your home. We will unpack some of the top ones here in this blog.
Sustainable lighting
Sustainability remains an important topic in the world today as people continue to search for more ways to make their home more earth-friendly. Both designers and manufacturers are also regularly pursuing more effective ways to provide their customers and clients with more eco-friendly choices and the category of lighting is no exception. Of course the light bulb itself is a main contributing factor as it can be a high use of energy and heat. LED bulbs are a wonderful substitute that provides the same levels of light but with a much lower energy output plus they tend to last longer. Materials also matter and lights made from recycled items such as glass and even metal are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint but still achieve an amazing light. Bamboo is also a smart option if you are looking for a touch of wood in your fixture. Thrift and antique stores offer another resource for lighting options. Reuse and reduce are both checked off the list when going with this route plus it can lead you to some pretty unique styles. If you want to have a lighter impact on the earth this year, these sustainable options may offer you a great place to start.
Maximize Natural light
While natural light is obviously a sustainable option it is also one of the healthiest for you and your family. This is an important factor as many homeowners are seeking to create a wellness environment in their home. Natural light alters its intensity throughout the day which causes different reactions in our bodies which is why spending so much time in areas without it can be hard on us. Lack of exposure can lead to depression and even fatigue. This is one reason why designers are actively incorporating more natural light into multiple areas in the home. If you have large windows in your living area consider minimizing your window treatments to maximize the natural light or go with ones that work with it such as motorized blinds. Adding a few mirrors to your space can also help reflect out the light you have. Natural light is a wonderful asset to your space but remember to have some things in place to compensate when the sun goes down such as sufficient lighting and privacy features for areas that are more personal such as bedrooms and bathrooms. There are also lighting options that can mimic the sunlight which can be a great option for rooms with no natural light. Be sure to take a moment and scan your home for the most sunny spots that can brighten up your day.
Unique lighting choices
We are all familiar with the traditional lighting choices from past decades but now light fixtures are becoming miniature works of art. Varying materials and even shapes are trending with homeowners who desire to make a statement by breaking out of the box. Wicker shades, reclaimed wood, oversized light bulbs, and various metals are all finding a place in the lighting industry as they combine to form gorgeous products. These unique choices can be used anywhere in the home and are not limited to the ceiling. Floor and table lighting with specialized features are a wonderful way to accent a space and personalize it for you. Even incorporating color into your lighting either through colored glass or even bulbs will transform your room in a stunning new way. Don’t forget about lampshades. From fabric to transparent, they work well as an additional highlight or even focal point especially in a prominent place like the kitchen island. Laundry, dining, and home offices are also enjoying the benefits of these unique choices as they bring another dimension to the entire design. Places like Pinterest and Houzz can be a good source of inspiration as well as antique stores where the old can illuminate a whole new look.
Recessed lighting
Still a popular choice, recessed lighting, also known as downlights, is installed directly into the ceiling or mounted onto it and offers targeted lighting. This is perfect for showcasing unique features in the home such as built-ins, upper cabinets, art work, and accent walls. Having sufficient lighting matters as it can protect your eyes from fatigue and recessed lighting is great at eliminating areas in the home that tend to have shadows. This option works well in kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, and tight spaces like the laundry room due in part to the directional lighting and the fact that they don’t take up any additional head space is a big bonus. One other perk is the ability to turn them on and off separately from the rest of the room so you can simply flip the switch if only a little light is needed. Recessed lighting also comes in a variety of styles which can be used in modern, contemporary, or minimalist making it a versatile design element. If you want to include extra lighting to your space but want control over how much you use throughout the day then recessed lighting is a wonderful option. Talk to your designer about the options available to you and which would work best for your particular space.
Lighting trends for 2023
When designing a room, lighting is a major contributing factor as it not only illuminates the space properly but also influences the overall mood. A dark space can feel cramped and slightly melancholic but it can be completely transformed with some layering of lights. This element brings a touch of elegance and even luxury to a room between ambient, task, and accent lighting. The options are abundant and the design choices are up to you!