Stylish lighting Ideas to Brighten Your Home
Bright ideas and new trends to light your home
An essential element of any room, the right lighting can take a scheme from dark and dingy to cosy and welcoming with the flick of a switch. From glamorous Art Deco lamps to neon signs and whimsical moon lamps, we’ve rounded up the best ideas and new trends to bring light into your home.
Install bedroom pendant lights
The symmetrical suspended lighting option frees up space on the nightstand and creates an incredible focal statement that highlights the bed. Of course, it also means you can forgo the furniture altogether—so makes the perfect small bedroom idea. And best of all? You don’t have to get out of bed to turn them off.
Larger than life
Over-blown lighting statements make interesting focal points in rooms without structural features to show off. Super-sized ceiling drums, dominating floor lamps or decorative wall lights are set to be the centre of attention in living rooms and large open-plan living spaces.
Make it monochrome
Monochrome decorating schemes that wrap rooms in one colour or tone create a stylish and contemporary vibe. Blending lighting into the scheme adds a three-dimensional element without upsetting the balance. We love this take on the trend where a copper-toned floor lamp peeps out from Dulux’s soft Dusted Heather tone of the upper walls but blends in perfectly below with a shade of Inca Orange below.
Scalloped edges
Set above a dining table or kitchen island, the wave-like curves are soft and fluid, creating subtle attention to detail that’s totally up to date.
Expose the wires
If exposed lighting cables conjure up visions of dusty construction extension leads trailing across the floor—think again! Uncovered wires create bespoke looks that offer an industrial edge in modern homes. From suspended spidery chandeliers to red braided rope lamps, there is an array of choices.
Soften with smoked glass
Add a twist to popular bulb lighting with smoked glass shades and pendants that add a glamorous contrast to neutral schemes. The delicate addition adds a soft hue to create a warm traditional decorating idea that’s timeless and chic.
Feature a sculptural chandlier
Chandeliers have been a decorative luxury lighting option for centuries. But, contemporary versions with sculptural interest are making a popular warm welcome in modern schemes. These architectural chandeliers are sleek, avant-garde, and artistic.
Pop in powder coated metals
Powdered coated metal gives classic industrial-style lights a colorful update. Pastel tones are proving more popular than ever and will introduce pretty notes into neutral schemes or add a fresh finish to contemporary, minimalist rooms.
Have fun with novelty bases
From brass monkeys hanging from ceilings clutching light bulbs to exotic bird bases propping up patterned light shades, whimsical lighting ideas that add interest to a scheme are filling up the lighting aisle shelves. We love this little pink bulldog table lamp that will sit faithfully in a retro living room with a cool, kitsch character.
Calm with Japandi charm
As the latest trends are heavily influenced by the environment and sustainability, it’s no surprise that designers are looking to use eco-friendly materials in bold designs that really pack a punch. Naturally translucent, the beauty of a paper lantern is in the soft glow as the light is able to permeate through, perfect for the darker months when we’re looking for comfort and coziness rather than clear, bright task lighting. Paper is also widely used in lantern making, which ties in nicely with the ongoing love for Japandi style.
Pick up a portable lamp
With the threat of possible blackouts looming, it’s no wonder flexible, battery-powered LED lamps are having a facelift. The Dipping Light portable lamp is a wireless splendor designed by Jordi Canudas. It delivers 20 hours of warm glow that is a far cry from those basic camping lamps we have been used to until now.
Color up rattan lampshades
Rattan has been a popular lighting material in neutral and rustic schemes for a while, so it’s refreshing to see a color update in the mix. The Hilo colorful woven straw lighting range is handcrafted from braided straw and brings a fun, bohemian vibe to colorful schemes.
Light up rechargeable lamps
Black-outs be gone as technology is changing the way we light our homes. This amber resin lamp really is a jewel as it’s rechargeable. With at least ten hours of dimmable charge, it can be moved into any dark corner to create an exotic glow without needing wires or sockets.
Set up sustainable style
Our need for sustainable style hasn’t fallen short in the lighting industry. As well as LED and rechargeable interior components, design aesthetics are also getting an update. Despite glass saturating lighting looks right now, we love materials such as wood and natural rattan, too.
Use strip lights in an alcove
LED strip lights have opened up a world of possibilities for the home decorator. Simply attach them with a double-sided sticky backing and you can use these long illuminated ribbons anywhere, plus they’re battery-operated, so no unsightly wires. One simple way to create a glowing feature is to outline any architectural features such as alcoves, tray ceilings or wall recesses. As this project proves, curves, in particular, look stunning.
Mix marble with metallics
From bedside lights to task lamps, table lighting is an essential consideration for any home interior. Pairing practicality with a sleek, modern design, this oversized gold-infused light bulb makes a glamorous statement with a marble-effect dome base. The combination of materials adds glamour to monochrome or Scandi-inspired schemes.
Choose an intriguing task lamp
A good task light is a must if you want to pursue your work or hobbies on a dim winter afternoon. An angled desk lamp is your best bet. Look for a design that diffuses a little mood lighting through the shade while focusing a stronger beam on the task in hand will give you the best of both worlds. This contemporary Kiranat Matt table lamp embraces our new love of primary colors and has a striking flat, adjustable shade designed to reflect light onto walls and objects.
Display a cloche lamp
Glass plinth lamps allow the owner to add a personal touch to lighting that tells a seasonal story or matches a particular decorating scheme. Remove the clear glass cloche base from the wood stand to display a touch of greenery or an ornament within. The decorative element makes a timeless addition to classic and country looks.
Arrange an arc lamp
Following the hot trend of curvy, wavy, and arch decorating, go for a large arc floor lamp to illuminate the area you need. Position one over the sofa for reading, watching television or just chatting with friends. You can even mix up the finishes—we love this copper design, but you could go for steel or black for a more dramatic feel.
Introduce modernist silhouettes and shadows
Ceiling lights with striking and contemporary vibes are pushing the boundaries with organic shapes. This Hiko light has been created with metal threads that curve into an uneven profile. The floating-style aesthetic glows from the center through each narrow panel casting inviting shadows on nearby walls.
Go bold with color and pattern
This season, lighting is all about bold colors and eclectic patterns, so why not combine the two to create a truly wow-factor space that is entirely your own? Forget white walls and complementary lamps, because right now it’s time to throw out the rule book and get playful with interesting prints and palettes. Pay homage to art and the latest global décor trend and you’re sure to create a living space you’ll never want to leave.
Hang handblown glass
The trend for organic, rounded shapes has moved on from seating to lighting. Handblown forms play on imperfection and asymmetry, while the translucent quality means this oversized lantern feels as light and airy as a bubble.
Go tough luxe with industrial lighting
You’d have to have been living under a rock to have missed the huge trend for Edison light bulbs, but industrial lighting has so many different strings to its bow. From pipework wall lights to reused bulkheads and fluted glass pendants, this modern style has a rustic, textured finish that looks great in all types of décor.
Pick a pleated lampshade
Testament to the fact that the 1990s revival shows no signs of abating, the once-iconic pleated lampshade is making an unexpected comeback. Pair it with a weighty colored marble base, team it with a brass lamp or add mini shades to wall lights; you’ll be surprised at how modern and appealing they suddenly look again.
Illuminate an island with kitchen pendant lights
Kitchen lighting usually requires three or four approaches: task lights for work areas, under lighting to highlight shadowy spots, and statement lighting to create the wow factor. A trio of pendants above an island definitely falls into the latter and the soft pools of light create a more ambient effect that’s perfect for socializing. There are as many styles of pendants as there are hot dinners, from smoked glass to rustic enamelware, so pick something that complements your scheme for a trendy kitchen that won’t go out of style.
Use wall lights to streamline a bedroom
Kill the clutter and get hotel style in one power move by incorporating two wall lights into your bedroom design. Not only do these provide the perfect reading light, they also free up space on a bedside table for more important things, like tea.
Illuminate shelves
What better way to display your favorite objects than on this cool Gera illuminated shelf? Made from fine, anodized aluminum, this clever two-in-one solution is perfect for a home office, as it can double up as a reading light. We love how it adds an ombre effect to any wall, too.
Sparkle with a modern chandelier
The chandeliers of yesteryear might’ve been all about intricate layered tiers and crystal galore, but these days there’s a whole host of contemporary chandeliers more suited to the modern, minimalist home. Combining glass and brass, this sleek design wows with a fluted finish that casts a soft, warm glow. Use it to frame a dining table or illuminate a luxe living room.
Turn up the texture with a rattan lampshade
Taking us right back to the 1970s, rattan, our favorite retro comeback kid, is taking over our home interiors all over again. Offering a wealth of texture and architectural interest, a woven pendant light is the way to go for those looking to make a serious statement. If you want to up the drama, opt for an oversized black rattan lampshade instead.
Go for glass pendant lighting
For an elegant and sophisticated scheme, you can’t beat a sleek glass light fitting. There’s no shortage of styles out there, from atmospheric smoked glass pendant lights to vibrant coloured shades. For a modern country scheme, this cowbell design, complete with industrial chain fitting, adds plenty of charm to a rustic-inspired space.
Round up a mirror light
With its on-trend round shape, bevelled edge, and backlight, it has a minimalist style while fulfilling multiple functions. Mirror lights are great for smaller rooms, freeing up wall and ceiling space, and creating an optical illusion of extra inches. Plus, they are great for doing your make-up.
Bring in a moon lamp
One for stargazers and dreamers alike, this gorgeous homage to the moon makes a beautiful night light. Whether you go for an oversized orb to hang from the ceiling or a smaller lunar lamp, there are lots of options available now that these beauties have grown in popularity. Some have LED lights that change color at a touch and others come wall-mounted with remote controls, but all have that amazing texture and shading for a lifelike appearance.
Mix and match shapes
Bring together a variety of different pendant designs and position them in a line over the dining table or above a bed. For a minimalist feel, use the same color, or if you’re feeling extra daring, mix up colors and finishes for a cool, mismatched look.
Lead the way
Create atmosphere in your home by installing low-level lights up your staircase. Ideal for safely moving between floors at night without having to switch on the main light, you could even install a handy motion sensor.
Hang a crystal pendant
A large, dramatic crystal pendant is totally worth its investment for a wow-factor centre-piece. Showing off hundreds of strands of individual crystals, this design from Dar Lighting refracts light around the room beautifully. One of the charms of lighting is playing around with shades to cast light in unusual ways, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
Light up your art
If you have a gallery wall of photographs and paintings, think creatively as to how you’re going to illuminate them. Instead of the typical overhead ceiling lights or spotlights, go for a flexible wall-hung lamp that you can move around and direct to your favorite piece.
Create a cosy hallway
The right lighting is essential for a warm welcome in your hardworking hallway. Combine overhead pendants with a wall light or table lamp to layer up your lighting and create a cosy atmosphere. For extra convenience, make sure lighting can be controlled from a switch next to the front door, ideally on a different circuit to the main light so you can opt for bright, functional lighting or a soft, homely glow.
Layer the lighting
When it comes to selecting the lighting for a room, you don’t have to be stingy—layering is the key to any successful scheme. Instead of sticking to a single pendant light, build up the ambience in a living space by combining a ceiling fixture with a floor lamp for task lighting and a table lamp to create a soft glow in the evenings.
Fall for a floor lamp
There’s an array of stylish ways to illuminate a dingy living room with a standing light. If you’re feeling daring, you could swap out the neutral shade for something bold in a contrasting hue.
Try a trio
Why have a single light source when you can have three—or more—in one? A multi-arm lamp really comes into its own when the season turns grey. You could, for example, use one light for reading, one to cast a soft glow on the floor and one to create an ombre wall or curtain.
Beat the winter blues
If you’re one of the 29% of people in the UK who suffers from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a light therapy lamp will introduce a much-needed ray of sunshine into your home. These LED lights simulate the spectrum of natural sunlight, triggering serotonin production in the brain and boosting your mood.
Light up a vanity mirror
A staple of Hollywood dressing rooms, what vanity station is complete without a mirror studded with light bulbs? A must-have for carrying out morning ablutions, the right lighting is key for a flawless look. This circular design includes a handy mirrored pedestal to make getting ready a breeze.
Install a dimmer switch
If your living spaces feel cool and clinical, consider opting for lighting with dimmer switches to add warmth to your interior. An easy way to create ambience, they can be easily adjusted to suit the occasion, from offering a soft glow on a cozy evening in, to injecting drama and atmosphere during a dinner party.
Create a cluster overhead
Sometimes more is more! Clustering lights together can transform even the simplest fittings into a striking installation, creating an irresistible glow. Group your lights in odd numbers to create visual interest and make sure they’re fitted to a dimmer switch so you can adjust them depending on the mood.
Add a bathroom glow
It’s easy to overlook bathroom lighting, but treating yourself to layers of soft light is a luxury you won’t regret when you’re enjoying a soak in the tub on a chilly night. Tiled rooms tend to feel colder, especially if you don’t have underfloor heating, but a bit of carefully-placed up-lighting, downlighting, and recessed lighting using warm-spectrum bulbs will make even the coolest white bathroom feel cozy.
