Light bulb moment

How you light a room is - perhaps surprisingly - one of the most important factors of a decor scheme.

"Consider all the different levels of lighting in the room, from the ceiling lights and pendants, to uplighters and occasional lamps," urges Josephine Bennett, head of home design at Laura Ashley. "All these aspects create different moods, which can be interchangeable throughout the day and night. Large, statement table lamps create a real focal point in the room, and provide an intimate light in the evening."

TOP TRENDS

The great thing about lighting is you can tune into the latest looks without spending a fortune. Obviously, a crystal chandelier or standout floor piece might make a dent in your savings, but a simple shade or statement table lamp can give a room a whole new look - and give you change from a 20 note.

Copper is a big highlight this season, and matches the autumnal palette perfectly.

"Contemporary copper lighting adds a stylish finishing touch to any decor," says Rachel Small, Sainsbury's home living buying manager. "Giving off a burnished glow, copper pendants create a dramatic centrepiece for an ambient dining setting, while copper table lamps enhance any living space, bringing a subtle metallic accent."

Alicia Kaper, head of curation at Joss & Main, completely agrees: "With the clocks going back, one of the most effective ways to bring added ambience to your home is through well-chosen lighting. Copper continues to reign supreme as 'the' metal of the moment, but to get a kick-start on another key material story, look out for lighting made from weathered woods, which form the basis of the season's modern rustic look."

Of course, stunning, ornate styles are never going to go out of fashion and always create an impact, and even light bulbs are beautiful now.

"Bulbs are no longer boring," asserts Diane Simpson, lighting buyer at John Lewis. "Calex bulbs look striking with their carbon filaments and can be hung from plain or coloured cord to provide a retro feel to your home. Lee Broom's range of UK-made crystal bulbs provide a delicate and decorative alternative, while Plumen have managed to make low energy light bulbs look great."

BUY ME:

Originally posted here:
Light bulb moment