As we get into November, many of us start thinking about decorating our homes for Christmas, and that means Christmas lights. Traditional fairy lights, candles, and lanterns are going to stand the test of time, but there are so many other options, including feature lights, for both inside your home and outside.

Christmas fairy lights

 

Is it even Christmas if there aren’t strings of pretty, twinkly lights everywhere? We don’t think so! Fairy lights are a must at this time of year, both indoors and outdoors.

Inside the home, there’s a huge amount of choice for fairy lights – different coloured and shaped bulbs, as well as designs you and your family will love. The Edit 1.2M Star Warm White LED Curtain String Lights are a gorgeous option, the Sirius Millie Glass Battery Operated LED String Lights have a vintage Christmas vibe, and the Konstsmide Warm White LED Star Curtain Lights light up windows and curtains perfectly.

Dressing the outside of your home with Christmas lights, you have an array of options. Light up beneath the eaves of your home with the Edit 15.4M Blue and White LED Snowing Icicle String Lights, brighten up your garden with the Edit 59.97M Decor Pastel LED Multi-Function String Lights, or go traditional with the Edit 74.92M Multi Colour LED Multi-Function String Lights.

Festoons

 

When fairy lights aren’t quite big enough – either indoors, or outdoors – festoons are a great option with a much bigger impact. You’ll find  and outside the home are perfect for lining pathways, and winding into taller trees. We love the Konstsmide 9.15M Amber LED Globe Festoon Lights, the Konstsmide Amber LED Shade Festoons Lights, and for something a festive but a little different, the Pastel Connectable Festoons.

Christmas lanterns

 

Lanterns look great in and around the home year round, but they’re particularly festive when they’re included with your Christmas decorations. The great thing about the lanterns in our festive range? They’re battery powered, and use LEDs, so you’ll get a lot of brightness, without needing a socket available. For lanterns you can use year round, the Edit Bulb Battery Operated LED Lantern is chic, while the Konstsmide Large Battery Operated LED Bell Jar brings a hint of magic to your home. For a truly Christmassy lantern, the Konstsmide Christmas Tree Battery Operated LED Lantern contains a Christmas tree, as well as glittery snowfall – the perfect addition to your Christmas decorations.

Battery operated Christmas lights

 

Mains powered Christmas lights aren’t always the most convenient option, especially if you want to add them to a space in your home where accessing a socket isn’t easy. Winding fairy lights around an indoor plant, or having a Christmas tree in a child’s bedroom is much easier with battery powered lighting, and with LED lights, batteries last for ages.

It isn’t only fairy lights that you’ll find in our range of battery operated lights – you’ll find perfectly festive feature lights such as the Edit Present 32 LED Feature Light, and the Edit Star LED Feature Light, as well as Christmas wreaths with LEDs, like the Sirius Anton Battery Operated LED Outdoor Christmas Wreath.

Battery operated candles

 

Another twinkly light option, candles look gorgeous throughout the home. But when you have lots of family around (and maybe one too many Christmas tipples!) as well as pets, lit candles can pose a hazard that none of us want to risk. Whether your concern is them being knocked over, or being forgotten and not blown out at bed time, battery operated candles can give you the effect you want, without the worry.

In our range of LED candles, you’ll find tall taper candles, chunky flicker candles, candles in glass jars, and even tea lights, all of which are perfect for decorating your home this Christmas. Our favourites include the Edit Glow Battery Operated LED Glass Flame Candle, the Sirius Sara Wave Battery Operated LED Wax Taper Candle, and the Konstsmide Battery Operated LED Tealights.

Solar powered Christmas lights

 

If you don’t want to be lumbered with a huge electricity bill after running outdoor lights throughout December, then solar powered lighting can be the answer. Solar powered Christmas lights might not seem like they are the greatest idea during the dreary days of December, but the advances in solar power technology, and LEDs means that they have vastly improved in recent years. Strings of festoons, wire fairy lights, and lanterns are all available in solar powered versions, so whether you want Christmas lights without the expense, or you want to decorate your garden without the hassle of connecting to mains power, you’ll find what you’re looking for in our range. The Suri Solar Multi-Coloured LED Festoon Lights, the Suri 12M Colour Changing Solar LED Multi-Function String Lights, and the 10M Solar Warm White LED Festoon Lights are all perfect for adding a splash of festive colour to your garden.

Feature lights

 

Feature lights make a big impact on your Christmas decorations – and we have some incredible options in our range, whether you’re looking to add them inside your home, or outside your property. For inside your home, consider the Kolm Warm White LED Tree, the Konstsmide Battery Operated Warm White LED Snowflake Decoration, or the Konstsmide Velvet Star Ceiling Light.

Feature lights outside your home have to make a big impact, and they have to make your home look both festive and welcoming. Alongside festoon lights or fairy lights in your garden, lighting up the entrance to your home is a great way to achieve that. The Edit Ultimate Christmas Battery Operated LED Decoration Set is a great way to get everything you need, while the Edit 1.5M Starry LED Feature Tree Lights come in a pack of two, so you can light up your front door steps. If you’re looking for something a little more fun, how about this Konstsmide Small LED Outdoor Reindeer?

Which Christmas lights will you choose? When you’ve put your Christmas lights up, don’t forget to tag us in your Instagram posts – we’re @lighting_direct.

 

As we move towards autumn and energy prices remain high, we know customers are looking for ways to make savings on their utility bills. With that in mind, we thought we’d share our top six ways to save energy on lighting.

 

1. Save up to 90% electricity by making the switch to LED bulbs throughout your home. There are LED light bulbs available for the majority of light fixtures today, including decorative filament styles that enhance the look of your light fitting. Making savings and improving an already great light? Win-win.

 

 

2. Replace light fittings with those with integrated LEDs. With so many designers incorporating them into new LED lighting styles, and many styles having an expected life span of over 20 years, you’ll be saving energy for years to come, as well as getting a great look.

 

 

3. Pick solar powered garden lights which allow you to light up your garden without any power at all. Our range of solar garden lights is extensive, and even include security lighting.

 

 

4. Choose rechargeable battery powered lights – either for garden lights, or picture lights to save on buying expensive disposable batteries.

 

 

5. Find lights with sensors so they are only on when you need them. Look for passive infrared (PIR) sensors, motion detectors, and dusk to dawn sensors when you’re buying new lighting. Check out our security lights section to view all outdoor sensor lights.

 

 

6.  Make use of technology. Smart homes present opportunities to make savings on your energy usage. Smart bulbs, smart plugs, and smart speakers all connect to Wi-Fi networks and allow you to set up your lights to be on or off wherever you are through manufacturer apps. If you’re not a lover of smart technology, then look for plug-in timers that will help you reduce the amount of electricity your lights use.

 

If you’ve made the switch and are sharing your findings on Instagram, don’t forget to tag us @lighting_direct.

After a long winter, these first few spring-like days have got us all dreaming about the glorious days of summer – and how fantastic it will be when we’re able to spend all that time in the garden. Although the days are getting longer as we write this post, the longest day is actually in June – which means there are likely to be plenty of nights that we need garden lighting if we’re to make the most of our outdoor space.

 

The right type of garden lighting for you will depend on the size of your space, the access that you have to electricity, the safety of the area that you live, and your personal preference. There is a lot to consider when you’re choosing garden lighting, but in this post, we’ll guide you through the options available, so that you can make the best decision.

 

 

What Types Of Garden Lighting Are There?

You’ve probably already got security lighting in place to help you and your family access your home safely – most of us do. That is one type of outdoor lighting, but there’s a big difference between a functional floodlight or porch lights by the entry to your home, and some stylish garden lights that add ambience to your garden throughout those balmy spring and summer evenings.

 

In your garden, just as in your home, you’ll need to think about the function of each type of lighting, and make sure that you have enough of each in the space. There is some crossover in the categories, so don’t get too worried about having enough of each type – just be certain your garden lighting looks great and works well enough for your needs.

 

Ambient lights provide a lot of light – perhaps not quite as much as daylight, but certainly enough to see family and friends with. These will include lanterns, lamp posts, wall lights, as well as festoons and fairy lights, depending on how they are used. Task lighting is used for a specific purpose – so this might be in an outdoor kitchen or above a patio dining area, or to light up paths. Wall lights, festoons, stake lights, in-ground lighting, and outdoor pendants are all useful for task lighting in the garden. Accent lighting is the fun bit in gardens – since it can be used to highlight certain elements of the space. Festoons and fairy lights, stake floodlights, and in-ground lights are all perfect to accentuate areas of the garden that we adore and want to draw attention to during the evenings.

 

Festoon Lights And Fairy Lights

Summer parties that linger on into the evening need lighting up – and what better way to create a festive, carnival atmosphere than strings of fairy lights, or festoons? You might prefer all-white lights, or you might want the celebratory feel that strings of coloured lights bring. Maybe, you want to add both! Whatever type of string light you want for your garden, there are loads of different options to choose from.

Many types of string lights are now made with LEDs – and as we’ve already mentioned, they don’t require a lot of power to emit bright light. That means you can make the most of solar powered string lights – wherever, and however you want to install them.

This filament battery operated chandelier looks gorgeous under parasols, but there is a huge array of festoons available – whether you choose these heavy duty ones, or these multicoloured solar LED festoon lights.

 

 

When it comes to fairy lights, there are even more options available to you. Of course, there’s nothing to stop you making use of the fairy lights from Christmas, but there are even more summery styles that can light up your garden during the warmer months. We love these white curtain string lights, that look beautiful on the edge of a pergola, or to help mark out a space.

To really draw attention to different trees and bushes, fairy lights on a net can be used for even more drama – this battery operated option works well – or you can find purely decorative styles, such as this style which has clusters of LED fairy lights.

 

 

Stake Lights

When you’re lighting the way to your patio, fire pit area, or simply want to cast a bit more light on your garden path, stake lights are one of the options you’ll almost certainly be looking at. The best thing about stake lights is how easy they are to install. They simply push into the ground, and although there are some models that need to be plugged in, many are solar powered, so once you’ve placed them where you want them, you simply have to wait for the sun to charge the battery for them to start lighting up at dusk.

This pack of four solar LEDs in stainless steel finish are perfect for marking edges of paths and flower borders, and these colour changing ones are great for parties – and are multifunctional, since the tops can be removed to be used as pretty table decorations too.

Stake lights can be used for decoration as well as practical lighting – this industrial lantern is a good option for areas that you want to light up without the need for installing wiring, as it uses solar powered LEDs. Another perfect addition is these industrial lanterns that are solar powered and can be placed anywhere in the sunshine, to provide up to six hours of light.

If you’ve got a certain area of your garden that you want to cast light on – a particular tree, or maybe a water feature – then a stake spotlight is a great option. Typically these have quite a modern look to them – such as this Edit Porto Garden Spotlight – but you can find styles with different metals, and rustic styles such as this rust brown model that would look perfectly at home in a cottage style garden.

 

 

In-Ground Lights

If you’re looking to permanently light up pathways, edges of patios, decks, and driveways, you’ll almost certainly be looking at deck and ground lights. They’re a great way to help prevent slips, trips, and falls, but once they are installed they also look incredibly pretty – and can add to the atmosphere in your summer garden, even though they’re designed to be functional in nature.

The majority of in-ground lights make use of LEDs, so they provide a lot of brightness without needing a huge amount of power. There’s a lot of options when it comes to in-ground lights, and some also have pretty finishes, like this puddle ground light.

While there are many types of in-ground lights that need to be installed properly, if you don’t fancy sorting out the wiring, you still have options. These ground lights are solar powered, and have a small stake to keep them in place – and they’re available in a convenient pack of four.

 

 

Table Lamps

Whether you’re dining al fresco during summer evenings, or you’re on the veranda with a great book and a drink, a little extra light on the table is always helpful, and can create a fun ambience too. Our Lucide Little Joe Outdoor Lamp is dimmable and has rechargeable batteries, while the Tiber Battery Operated Outdoor Table Lamp in White is also rechargeable, and is a sophisticated choice for conservatories.

The great thing about these types of table lamps is how flexible they can be – they might be used in the conservatory most of the year, but then on particular nights of the year, they can be safely brought outside for use during garden parties or outdoor dinners.

 

 

Pendant Lights

Pendant lights, in the garden? It doesn’t sound like a logical pairing, but if you have a covered veranda, a pergola, a conservatory, or even a temporary gazebo, then an outdoor pendant light should definitely be on your list of garden lighting to consider. Garden pendant lights are ideal above outdoor dining areas and seating areas, and can provide large amounts of ambient light for dinners and drinks.

As with ceiling pendants for indoor spaces, there are loads of different styles to choose from – from traditional lantern styles to modern outdoor chandeliers. We particularly love how some of the outdoor pendants are made from rattan, giving a real holiday vibe that, alongside a few coloured fairy lights, creates the perfect atmosphere for a few summer cocktails. This Spiral style, and this Filament style are both ideal for summer parties, and are battery operated.

 

 

Lanterns And Lamp Posts

If there is a more classic garden lighting option than a great lamp post, or wall lamp, we haven’t heard about it yet – and we’re experts! Lamp posts are great for casting light over a wider area, while wall lanterns are perfect for lighting certain areas around the sides of the house. Although wall lanterns and lamp posts generally are traditionally styled options, there are modern designs to be found too – so be certain to check out the options available in our range.

 

How Can I Power My Garden Lighting?

Getting your garden lit up involves electricity – until technology evolves, there are no two ways around that. But although mains power is one option, it isn’t the only one, and both solar and battery powered garden lights are realistic options now, since LEDs don’t require a lot of power to create a really bright light. There are advantages to each type of garden lighting, and there are loads of factors that may influence your decision about the right type of power for your garden lights.

 

Mains Powered Garden Lights

For lighting that is to be installed permanently, connecting to mains power is the most reliable method of powering your garden lights. The advantage to using mains power is that as long as you have power to your home, you’ll be able to power the lights in your garden. It is a dependable, safe way of powering the lights in your garden, and is ideal for larger lights such as lamp posts, and for security lighting.

 

Connecting garden lights to mains electricity isn’t always possible, especially in areas that are far from the house, or where the property is rented and permanent changes aren’t permitted. In those scenarios, solar lights and battery powered garden lights are preferable.

 

12v Garden Lights

If you have an outside plug socket, then 12v garden lights are an incredibly simple way to light your outdoor space. Simply place them where you want them, then plug them into your outdoor socket, and switch them on. You don’t need to bury any cables, and they are easy to move too.

Easyfit garden lights are exactly as they sound – easy to fit! There are loads of extra lights that can be added to the circuit without requiring an electrician, so you can get a bespoke look for your garden, at relatively low cost, and without any hassle. Whether you buy a kit, or each component separately, they’re simple to get started with. Consider bamboo style garden posts, golf ball festoons, or garden spotlights – they’re all perfect additions to your garden.

 

Solar Garden Lights

Solar powered garden lighting technology has come on a long way in previous years, and today solar garden lights are a great way to get light into your garden if you don’t have access to mains electricity, or don’t want to add to your electricity bills.

 

Most types of garden lights are now available with solar power, meaning that you don’t have to compromise on function or form if you want a certain style. The main thing you need to remember is that unless the solar panel gets enough sun during the day, you won’t get the brightness that you’re looking for. If you’re aiming to light up an area that is in the shade for most of the day, then consider battery powered garden lights instead – a USB rechargeable model is likely to be more dependable in those areas.

 

 

Battery Powered Garden Lights

When you need some light in your garden but don’t want to install a light permanently – such as on patios and outdoor dining areas – then battery power is the way to go. If you’re already thinking twice about buying a battery powered garden light because of the need to have multiple packs of AA batteries on hand, you might not need to worry about that as much as you might think. Of course, you have the option of buying rechargeable batteries for your garden lighting, but many battery powered garden lights are now USB rechargeable – so all you need is the cable that is supplied with most models, and are often interchangeable.

 

Which Type Of Garden Lighting Is Right For My Garden?

There are way too many options to consider for us to give a one-size fits all answer, but as we mentioned at the start of this post, the first thing to consider is whether you want to tie yourself to just one type of garden lighting. As with indoor lights, when you’re dressing your garden for the spring and summer, layering your lighting will mean that you can get the right effect for whatever type of event is happening in your space.

 

Secondly, you’ll need to decide which type of power is best for you to make use of. If you’re in a home that isn’t yours forever (perhaps you’re renting, or have a five year plan!) then solar or battery powered might be a better option – but if you’re able to install permanently, mains power could be for you.

 

Garden Lighting And Safety

 

It might go without saying, but when you’re lighting up your garden, you can’t just bring indoor lighting outside and hope for the best. The weather during the great British summer is generally not as dependable as we’d like it to be, and there’s always a chance of an unexpected rain shower, or windy period, and if indoor lighting gets wet, there’s the risk of shock – or that it will simply be ruined.

 

With that in mind, be certain to look for lighting that is designed specifically for use outdoors, with a safety rating of IP44 and above, to keep you and your family safe, and so that your garden lighting can be used for years to come without any risk.

 

If you’re installing pond lighting, to create even more ambience around your water feature, you’ll need to be looking at either IP64 or IP68, which can be submerged.

 

Our Final Thoughts

Lazy evenings with sunset drinks that turn into a summer night party need the right type of lighting – and when there are so many options to choose from, there’s really no reason to keep those parties going. Whatever type of lighting that is right for your space, you’ll find a huge selection for all requirements and budgets in our range, and of course, if the garden lighting you choose doesn’t suit your needs perfectly, our returns policy means that we can help you get the right model for you.

 

When you’ve got your garden all set up for summer, don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram, and tag us @lighting_direct – we love to see your purchases in their new homes!

As most of us know, the Great British Summer is an unpredictable beast. Cloudy days and rainy nights are to be expected – but that doesn’t stop us from wanting to make the most of our gardens during the warmer months! Whether they are tiny balconies or small courtyard gardens, or you’re lucky enough to have an extended amount of space with patios and lawns, most of us relish the thought of getting out into our gardens for lazy summer days and dreamy summer nights.

As we write this post, we hope the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic is over in the UK, but it is still weighing heavily on our lives. There are still many restrictions in place, particularly when it comes to travel – and even for the countries that it is permitted, a significant percentage of the population are reluctant to travel as yet. While we’re lucky that things are getting better, many of us are looking to make the best of what we have while we’re staycationing – and so it makes sense that many of the garden trends for this summer are in response to this desire.

 

 

Escapism is key

Dealing with the constant challenges of lockdowns, paired with travel restrictions has us dreaming of escapes worldwide, and that is feeding garden trends right now. Whether you’re marking the days on the calendar until the staycation that you have got booked in the UK, or you’re dreaming of the day that you walk down the (aeroplane) aisle and jet off to foreign lands, you can use that wanderlust to inspire your garden design.

 

English country garden

Your garden might be in the suburbs, or even in the heart of the town, but that doesn’t mean you can’t walk out your back door and imagine you’re in the Cotswolds. Creating a country garden feel in your outdoor space means that you can dream of being in your own little cottage while you’re out there. Partly inspired by the ‘cottagecore’ interior design movement (sometimes known as farmcore and countrycore), there is little wonder that this trend is being applied liberally to gardens too.

There are so many ways that you might apply this trend to your garden, but we imagine gardens like this to include plenty of traditionally English plants, from climbing roses and honeysuckle, and lots of wildflowers, as we mentioned before. Furniture is likely to be more traditional in style too, so seek out wrought iron table and chairs – maybe given a pretty make-over in a pastel shade of pink or blue, rather than in black or white. If iron furniture isn’t your thing, find mismatched wooden furniture that is finished with the same treatment to unite the look.

 

 

When you’re creating your rustic cottage-style garden, your lighting needs to be traditional – and it doesn’t get more traditional than lanterns and lamp posts. Our recommendations for this look? This Edit Traditional Lamp Post, which is inspired by Victorian street lighting. Simply add a warm white decorative filament bulb to set the look off perfectly.

If your garden is a little smaller, you can create a similar effect with wall lanterns or pedestals. This Edit Coastal Sennen Outdoor Lantern has a PIR sensor, so will only be switched on when it senses movement after dark. For something a little more intricate, this Lucide Tireno Outdoor Pedestal Light is the perfect option, and can be fitted where you need it.

 

Seaside vibes

Who doesn’t love a seaside break in the UK? Well, maybe some, but creating a seaside effect in your garden is absolutely on trend for 2021. Maybe it is the desire to get back to normality, with day trips to the beach, but creating a garden that takes inspiration from the British seaside is absolutely on trend right now. Find traditional stripey deck chairs, add beachy stones, jute rope, and use grassy plants to achieve this look. Bonus points if you can turn your shed into a tasteful beach hut.

Coloured festoon lighting is absolutely perfect to complete this look – these Suri Solar Multicolour LED filament festoons are not just reminiscent of fun fairs in the best possible way, but they’re also solar powered, meaning you can hang them absolutely anywhere that the solar panel will be in the sun during the day.

 

 

Mediterranean space

If you’d normally be on a plane somewhere sunny in the Med around this time of the year, then take inspiration from your favourite destination for your garden. Add olive trees to patios, find furniture made from bleached woods, and add an outdoor pizza oven and strings of festoons to really amp up the Italian vibe.

Should you prefer the north African coast to inspire your garden, this Jumbo Damasque Outdoor Solar LED Lantern casts shadows that feel perfectly Moroccan.

 

Zen gardens

When you’re done with work, you need a place to retreat for rest and relaxation. Japanese style zen gardens are currently trending, with lots of greenery, stone, and water features. When looking for furniture for this type of garden, look for teak and other darker woods, or if that is out of your price.

If you’re looking for lighting for a more zen space, then look for simple designs, to allow the beauty of the garden to speak for itself. This Elstead York Pendant Porch Lantern would look wonderful in the middle of a simple pergola, and this Dar Arham LED Wall Light is beautifully simple, with opal panes that are reminiscent of traditional Japanese style interiors.

For something a little more decorative, this Elstead Kolne Outdoor Lantern has just a hint of Japanese styling to it, without being too obvious.

 

Using garden space

Since the pandemic started, we’ve needed every square inch of our homes to work for us even harder – particularly where there a lot of people in a small home – and in many cases, we’ve been using our gardens as extensions of our homes. Pre-COVID, we might have used our gardens in such a way, but since last year there has definitely been more of us using our outdoor space more creatively, allowing us to access just a bit more space.

 

Zoning

If you’re lucky enough to have a garden that is big enough to be divided up into different areas, then you might already be on the case with this trend. Zoning has been popular with garden designers for a while now, to clearly show how different areas of the garden are to be used. Tall plants, bushes and even outdoor rugs are popular ways to separate sections and create privacy, but our favourite way – particularly through the evening – is to use lighting.

Fairy light curtains like these Edit ones can create a whimsical backdrop to a romantic dinner, while stake lights or ground lights can be used to mark out the edges of decking, or along paths.

 

Office space

So many of us are still working from home as we write this post, and many big businesses have taken the decision to allow employees to decide where they want to work in the future – whether that is office-based, remote, or a hybrid arrangement. With permanent returns to offices looking less likely, many of us are looking to create office spaces in our gardens, allowing us to work without interruptions. Small cabins, summer houses and garden office pods are in huge demand this year, and we expect to see even more popping up as home working continues.

Once the office space has been installed and electricity has been connected, in most cases, the office space can be decorated as an indoor home office would be. You’ll be shopping for a desk, book cases, appropriate office lighting and desk lamps and heaters, so that your new garden office space can be used year round.

 

 

Cooking, dining and social space

Over the past few years, there has been a trend towards having cooking, dining and social space in your garden. Being able to go out for a quick drink, or for something to eat is much easier when the restaurant or bar is right outside your back door, and there is no need for taxis at the end of the evening! We love this trend, but at the same time, we don’t see a time when we won’t enjoy going out-out – whether that is to our local pub or to a great new restaurant. Nobody wants to have to do the dishes, after all! While the pandemic might have encouraged the trend, there is absolutely no doubt that there is a massive trend towards incorporating cooking and entertaining spaces in gardens throughout 2021 and beyond.

In bigger gardens, we’re seeing full outdoor kitchens that include barbecue grills, pizza ovens and sinks, while in smaller gardens just one of those elements are being installed, alongside al fresco dining areas and bar carts that allow for summer dinners to continue long into the evenings.

Outdoor cooking spaces need plenty of lighting, and we recommend strings of festoons for this purpose. That’s because they are flexible and can be arranged to provide optimum lighting where it is required, but they’re also pretty atmospheric, lending a celebratory, party atmosphere – which is just what you need when you have friends to visit!

Where dining spaces are arranged under pergolas and covers, there are some incredible lighting options. Festoons can be used of course, but we love outdoor pendant lights such as this Edit Vigo pendant porch lantern.

 

 

Versatile space

If you have children in your home then your garden is almost certainly their domain – whether they’re outside kicking a ball around, playing at camping or they have sand and water play in their space.

But your garden isn’t just for children – and if you’re in a small house, then your garden may become your workout space, or chillout space, as well as your social space and the playground. If you need your space to be flexible, then add storage in the way of a small shed, or using garden storage boxes will ensure you can do what you want, when you want, and keep your workout stuff, toys for afternoon play dates, as well as tables, chairs, and cushions.

To create a really great amount of soft, ambient lighting, we absolutely adore this Edit Cloud 800 Outdoor Ground Feature Light – we can see it being fantastic for a movie night with the children on a picnic rug, while entertaining friends, or to provide just a little more lighting while doing a full moon yoga flow.

 

Sustainability

Many of us have become much more aware of the need to make more sustainable choices over the past few years, and in 2021, that means our gardens too. Eliminating plastic, changing the way we treat the soil and being careful to switch lights off when they are no longer needed are all not just on trend, they’re going to be essential for the survival of the planet. Choosing sustainable isn’t a trend all on its own – the perfect situation is where we can work with trends and be sustainable at the same time.

 

Furniture made from natural materials

Plastic furniture was once the cheap and cheerful option, with loungers, tables and chairs all being easy to find, but as we all become much more aware of the need to act sustainably, they’re becoming much less cool. Designers are sourcing natural materials that are much more robust for both indoor and outdoor furniture. Recently, wicker and rattan are becoming popular for garden furniture, as well as the use of reclaimed woods, and metals that will last much, much longer.

When it comes to adding lighting to your garden, it is possible to find fixtures that are made from natural materials, although of course, wiring still needs to use plastic to keep it watertight. In order to keep the impact on the environment down, buy from quality lighting specialists. Buying high quality means that you’re less likely to encounter your choice of lighting failing on you after just a few months, and reduce the need for you to replace them – and means fewer items ending up in landfill.

If you’re looking for table lighting, then this Alfresco LED Outdoor Table Lamp  or Lucide Fjara Lantern are great options, both supplied with a USB rechargeable battery.

 

Wildlife supporting plants & wildflowers

With insects such as bees at risk, many of us are choosing to plant more wildflowers, and plants that are known to support animals in the local ecosystems. Some gardeners are completely ‘rewilding’ sections of their gardens, but if that is a little to unkempt, or you prefer a more curated look, add wildflower seed to raised beds. Not only are they great for supporting the environment, they’re also incredibly pretty, and this idea works perfectly with the ‘English country garden’ trend that is popular at the moment too.

 

 

Growing food and medicinal plants

With so many people choosing to become vegan over the last few years and prices of food rising, the desire to experience garden fresh food has grown dramatically. That’s a great thing too, since home grown fruit and vegetables beat supermarket produce hands down in terms of flavour, and in terms of satisfaction too.

Growing herbs and small plants like tomatoes has been a summer job for many of us for a long time – and the good news is that you don’t need a huge amount of space to grow your own. Even if you have wall planters, patio containers or just a windowsill, you’ll still be able to make the most of growing. Beans, peas, salad vegetables and herbs grow well in small spaces, while if you’re really pushed for space, you can look at growing in hanging baskets.

Taking the trend another step, there has been a move towards growing plants that can be used for medicinal purposes too. Camomile and lavender are both well renowned for being great as a sleep aid, while growing mint and ginger in sheltered, sunny spots means you’ll always have them available for tea to relieve digestive discomfort when you need them.

 

Careful use of lighting

When choosing lighting options, sustainability means looking for solar powered outdoor lighting where possible, but also ensuring that you minimise the effects of your lighting on local wildlife. Adding timers to your lighting, or making use of PIR lights that are triggered to come on when movement is detected means that your garden lighting doesn’t create excessive amounts of light pollution, and won’t interrupt insect life cycles.

 

Final thoughts

While these are the trends that designers are working with at the moment, the most important thing to remember is that trends are temporary, and so while you might follow a particular trend to the letter, if you don’t love it, you will end up changing it sooner than you might prefer. Never forget that, while having a home that is on trend is great, having one that you absolutely love, and that you are comfortable in, will always be in style.

 

 

When refreshing our homes, most of us want to create spaces that will feel modern for some time to come. Taking inspiration from interior design trends can ensure that our homes both reflect our personalities, and impress our guests when we are finally allowed to visit again post-lockdowns. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the design ideas and trends for 2021, and how to use lighting to complement those trends.

 

Cottagecore and country living

The ‘cottagecore’ trend emerged as a reaction to 2020 – the need to feel comforted at home, where it feels safe – is essential for our wellbeing. While there were a number of different takes on this trend, in many cases cottagecore meant using a range of chintzy fabrics, exposed beams and floorboards, and embroidery. Vintage items look great with this trend, but the look can be elevated (and to feel deliberate, rather than thrown together) by using gold accessories. When it comes to lighting, gold finishes are everywhere, and they can feel traditional, such as this Edgar floor lamp in antique gold or can feel less expected, like with this impressive Markslojd Soleil piece.

 

 

Glass pendants such as this Edit Tavern glass ceiling pendant light in chrome gives just the right amount of rustic, while still feeling modern in design.

 

Texture play

Using different materials to create both visual and textural effect is being used in homes extensively – particularly where there is a lot of flat, empty space. Vertical panelling, slats and wainscoting are all popular on walls to create interest, but the most impressive textural effects are created when they are layered. Using a range of different fabrics and materials creates depth and feels much more luxurious and warm. Choosing lighting to complement these layers of textures can be achieved with a range of different lighting solutions.

Metallic lighting can add a completely different feel, and while metals can feel unyielding, they can feel warm with tones such as gold and copper. The Lucide Manuela ceiling light in green finish looks fabulous and feels reminiscent of netting – don’t forget to order a bulb with a decorative filament to show it off to the fullest.

 

 

Natural materials like rattan, hessian, and cane can help to create a softly diffused light and complements the look and feel of spaces where nature is to be evoked and relaxation is to take place – in bedrooms, living areas and conservatories. This Lucide Magius flush wall light in rattan contrasts beautifully with the black metal back plate, for a slightly less rustic feel. For ceilings, the Iluzzia Nagua ceiling pendant light uses layers of bamboo shaded material to feel luxurious.

Fluted and ribbed glass lighting can also create depth in spaces where textures are being layered. This Markslojd Sober table lamp is versatile and works well in living rooms, casual use desks and bedrooms.

 

 

Statement pieces

Rather than depending on colours to create design effects, many are choosing to invest in statement lighting that they really love as a way of creating visual interest, or to update a room without needing to completely redecorate. Where statement lighting is in place, other decorative effects can be minimal – particularly where walls are plain, and drama is added in the accessories.

Statement pieces can be used throughout the home, in almost every room. In kitchens, multiple large pendants or sculptural pendant lights such as this Edit chart 6 arm ceiling pendant work perfectly over kitchen islands and dining tables.

 

 

In more formal dining rooms, living rooms and bedrooms, chandeliers and ceiling pendants with unexpected materials such as agate can take centre stage, while in bedrooms, long arm wall lights on either side of the bed, or statement table lamps.

 

 

This Lucide Extravaganza coconut table lamp in green and gold hits on two trends at once, being a statement piece and with the green shade, which we’ll come to in our next trend, oceanic hues. This lamp works beautifully in living rooms, bedrooms and conservatories as a talking point, and could easily be updated in the future by switching out the shade for a different colour.

Smoked glass lighting is very much a trend through 2021. This Lucide Yoni table lamp makes a statement wherever it is placed throughout the home. It reminds us – in the best possible way – of desk toys that were popular in the 1980s and 1990s, while still feeling like modern art, and so would look fabulous in a home office.

 

Oceanic hues

The biggest selling shades of paint were in green and blue hues in 2020, and this is highly likely to continue right through 2021. No doubt many designers were taking their inspiration from Pantone’s 2020 colour of the year, which was ‘Classic Blue’ (19-4052). At the end of 2020, US paint specialists Benjamin Moore kept the blue trend going by choosing Aegean Teal (2136-40) as their colour of the year for 2021.

Since green is strongly associated with nature, it makes many people feel peaceful, calm and relaxed – which is why, when TV shows have guests, they are sent to relax in the ‘green room’ prior to their appearance. It is also sometimes considered an optimistic, or hopeful colour, since green is strongly associated with the promise of spring.

Blues are also heavily entwined with nature, with many people associating it with water and the sea. Like green, blues are calming, and can encourage us to think of the ideal situation or solution for a problem. Although blue can be a positive colour, when using blue in décor, care should be taken to ensure that it doesn’t feel too cold – unless that is the intention, of course.

 

 

Greens and blues can work wonderfully in almost every room in the home, blue is less often used in dining rooms. While it can create a lovely, calming atmosphere, blues aren’t usually associated with food, since blue is rarely seen in natural foods, apart from blueberries and plums, and so it can actually suppress the appetite.

When choosing lighting to complement rooms featuring green and blue – whether influenced by traditional, or mid-century design styles – there is a wide range of lighting that works well. Both clear glass and opal glass work well for shades, while brass, gold and white also look fantastic.

 

 

Grey and yellow

We’ve spoken about grey and yellow as trending colours for 2021 since the beginning of the year – but that’s the power of Pantone. When Pantone announces a colour for the year, everyone involved in design listens, and this year, they announced “Ultimate Gray” and “Illuminating” as two separate shades that would encapsulate the feelings of hope and resilience that we need through 2021.

 

 

Illuminating (we approve of the name!) is a vivid yellow shade that is optimistic and aspirational, while Ultimate Gray was being “emblematic of solid and dependable elements which are everlasting and provide a firm foundation” to encourage and reassure – something that we’re all in need of after the challenges that 2020 presented us with.

Greys have long been favoured for use in the home as a calm, soothing shade. It pairs well with many different shades, since it balances brighter and more intense hues, while it also works well with other natural shades owing to it being the colour of many pebbles.

Yellows are often avoided in the home as they can sometimes feel too vibrant and wakening. Used carefully though – either alongside balancing neutrals, or as a contrasting colour – yellow can be used to great effect.

When choosing lighting for rooms with yellow or grey, keeping it simple is often the way forward. Clear glass, white, silver, textured fabrics, and marble effects can all work well, depending on the styling of the space.

 

 

Lighting trends in different rooms

We’ve all used our homes even more extensively than usual this year. As we’ve spent more time at home and saved money on going out, many homeowners have been using the time to search for their dream lighting, and to upgrade lighting in different rooms.

 

Kitchen

When designing and remodelling kitchens, the trend for statement lighting continues, with a move away from bar pendants in favour of having multiple single pendant lighting. To make the most of this trend, we love the Edit Hammered Ceiling Pendant Light in Copper, and the Lucide Julius smoked glass pendant light. Both options look striking used in multiples above kitchen islands and dining tables, but there are a range of pendants to suit every style.

Lighting within kitchen furniture has been popular for a while, especially LEDs installed under higher cupboards to illuminate the counters, but this type of lighting can be used to create different effects. Adding lights above cupboards can help low ceilings feel higher, creating a more airy feel in the kitchen, while fitting LED strips under cupboards can create a floating effect. Since it highlights the floors, it also has the benefit of ensuring that cleaning is done promptly, and done well too – you might want to invest in a Swiffer mop for easy clean-ups if applying this trend!

 

 

Home office

2020 was undoubtedly the year that the home office was established as a permanent requirement. With more people working from home, it makes sense that there has been a trend towards more task lighting for home offices. Many people started out making use of cheap functional desk lamps as a temporary fix, but as working from home looks set to continue through 2021 and beyond, it is understandable that finding stylish desk lighting has become a priority.

Not only is it important to have desk lighting that illuminates our work space, but those Zoom calls are now non-optional – so having stylish desk lighting that both looks good, and makes us look good on camera is essential. Designers have seen this demand, and there are a huge range of desk lamps available to suit any aesthetic. There are classic styles, such as the Endon Hiero desk lamp in antique brass, starkly industrial styles like the Lucide Malcolm table lamp in black and gold, and the beautiful and modern styles, such as the Lucide Mirasol marble and brass table lamp.

 

 

Bedroom

We talked about bedroom lighting ideas in this post, but we can’t talk about lighting trends without discussing how statement pendants are having a moment in bedrooms. Sculptural shades are popular, as we mentioned in our previous post, but they can also be used to add texture – such as with this Lucide Maloto glass ceiling pendant light in amber, or this Lucide Magius ceiling pendant light in rattan.

Statement pendants aren’t just used in the centre of the room either. They can be a fantastic alternative to bedside lamps, helping to bedside tables clear of wires and clutter – and are especially ideal if there are accident-prone pets or children around!

Great all lighting is another option next to the bed and feels luxurious as well as functional. Having dimmer switches on wall plates can create further flexibility, and when turned down to the dimmest setting, should the light need to be switched on at night, it isn’t such a shock to the system. This DFTP Balance LED wall light with plug has a dimmer switch built in, and provides perfect illumination for bedtime reading.

 

 

Tips for choosing great lighting

Having a range of lighting in each room allows spaces to be better utilised – although of course, it depends on what the room is going to be used for, as to what type of lighting is most important. The days of having just ‘the big light’ in the centre of the room as the only lighting option are now long past. We recommend that each room should have between five and seven lighting points, with at least one type of lighting from each category for every room. This allows for the perfect amount of flexibility for each space, and increases the number of activities that are possible in each room.

 

Categories of lighting

 

Ambient lighting

Ambient lighting is often provided by the main light on the ceiling (although this isn’t always the case – wall lighting can also contribute to ambient lighting) and should fill the room with light. It is functional and allows the room to be used in the same way as if it were natural daylight. But as we have seen, functional doesn’t need to be boring! There are plenty of choices of lighting fixtures that can contribute to ambient indoor lighting, including:

• Ceiling fixtures including chandeliers, downlights, pendants, spotlights, track lights and batten lights
• Wall lighting such as picture lights, uplights, ceramic lights and flush wall lights
• Floor lamps and table lamps

 

 

Task lighting

This is the lighting within a room that is used for specific reasons. In a bedroom, this would be lamps on bedside tables, in the kitchen it might be under-counter lights that illuminate work surfaces, while in the study, it would be desk lighting. Task lighting can be provided by:

• Downlights and pendants
• LED cabinet lights
• Floor, desk, or table lamps

 

 

Accent lighting and spotlights

Interior designers use accent lighting as a way to highlight architectural features or items in the space such as artwork, a collection of objects, or a sculpture. Sometimes it is used to create a specific effect and can also create the feeling that the room is bigger than it actually is. Spotlights are frequently used to achieve this, while up and down lights or arm lights can also be used to draw the attention to a certain aspect of the room.

 

Lighting height

When you’re considering adding any kind of lighting, but particularly statement lighting from the ceiling – it is always sensible to check heights before ordering and installing. Sufficient clearance is essential to avoid injury or breakage (or both!), and so there should be a minimum of 2 metres between the floor and the lighting fixture – more if you have a particularly tall member of your household! When fitting lighting above dining tables, there should be a minimum of 65 cm between the table and the lighting fixture.

 

Light bulbs shouldn’t be an afterthought

Care should be taken to ensure the right type of bulbs are used in different types of lights. Functional task lighting in a study or kitchen requires white or blue-tinted bulbs, to provide brightness, while in bedside lamps, a softer and warmer feel is more appropriate to ensure that sleep isn’t interrupted.

As we mentioned earlier, where bulbs are exposed by their light fittings, bulbs are an essential part of the look – so choose appropriately – whether that is bulbs with decorative filaments, smaller sized bulbs, or candle bulbs.

 

 

The small details are important

When decorating your home and keeping everything on trend, don’t neglect the smaller details that make all the difference. Plain white, plastic switches and sockets will do the job perfectly, but they often aren’t beautiful, and won’t add to the feeling of comfort. Adding light switches that are intentionally chosen to complement your décor or choice of light fitting (in the same material and finish as the light fitting) can create a really professionally designed feel and elevate the room in a subtle, yet incredibly effective way.

Most importantly, ensure that you have the ability to control the brightness of your lighting. As designer Åsa Fjellstad says – not having a dimmer switch on your lighting is like having a loudspeaker with only one setting – so make sure you add dimmer switches to your shopping list when refreshing your space in 2021. Continue the theme by switching telephone sockets and power sockets to match (not forgetting to fit USB power, since so many of our devices run on them today) for a really luxurious look and feel.

 

Find more lighting ideas and solutions click here.

 

In most households, the kitchen is the centre of the home, and is used for much more than cooking and laundry. If there is a breakfast bar, a cosy kitchen table or even a full dining table, then the kitchen is the centre of the home for socialising too. As we write this post, we know huge numbers of people are working from their kitchen tables too, owing to lockdowns and finding space to work from home.

 

 

Designing a kitchen, or remodelling an existing one is rarely a small job. Whether you’re working with a tiny galley-style space, or you’re lucky to have plenty of square footage, your kitchen has to be functional as well as beautiful.

 

Designing a kitchen

There isn’t a perfect method of designing a kitchen – there are so many variables. However, these are a few of the things that you’ll need to do before you start browsing showrooms.

 

Set your budget realistically

You can spend infinite amounts of money on a high-end kitchen, but even if you don’t have a huge budget, you may still be able to make a drastic change – particularly if your existing kitchen is well-built, but is simply dated. We’ll touch on budget kitchen design further in the post.

 

Consider the needs of the users

If any family members are elderly, or have disabilities, then that may impact decisions such as where to locate appliances, while families with young children will have different needs from their kitchen.

 

 

Establish the basics

Measure your space carefully, and if you’re keeping your existing appliances, measure them too. If you’re going to be remodelling the house, taking down walls or changing the layout completely, you’ll need to measure up and consult with builders, but there are other considerations to be made too. It might mean that there will be more space in the long term, but you’ll need to plan carefully – plumbing, electrics and heating will need to be planned for.

 

Find your inspiration

Before you start looking at options, pull together images of designs that you love. Pinterest is a great place to do this, and means that you can find effects and details that you absolutely love without needing to commit to them immediately. If you’re going to work with a professional kitchen designer, your inspiration will help them get the look that you want, with the budget that you have available.

 

Decide who will install your new kitchen

If you’re going to work with professionals, you’ll need to budget for installation costs. Even if you’re tackling the installation yourself, you’ll want a contingency budget, just in case something goes wrong.

Once you’ve found your inspiration and you’re starting to think about styles and installation, it is time to start designing. There are a wide range of 3D modelling design tools available to use for free online that will give you a good idea about whether your thoughts will work in reality. Whether you’re tackling your remodelling project yourself, or you’re going to be working with a company that specialises in designing and fitting kitchens, these tools can bring your new kitchen to life, and make designing much easier – especially if there are a number of possible layouts.

 

Kitchen colours

When it comes to kitchen design, almost every colour is a possibility, but there are colours that may work better than others in your space and effect you want to achieve. Searching online, you’ll find design ideas for kitchens in absolutely every shade you can think of. In colour psychology, reds and oranges are frequently used in restaurants and fast food logos to trigger senses of hunger. Although bright red or orange might feel a little too loud in your home, the effects can be felt with more muted shades, so you might consider using shades such as deep burgundies and terracotta.

In our previous post, we touched on the 2021 colours of the year from three major sources:

• Pantone, who chose 17-5104 “Ultimate Gray” and 13-0647 “Illuminating”, a bright sunny yellow
• Dulux, who chose “Brave Ground” – a warm, earthy taupe
• US decorating brand Benjamin Moore – that chose Aegean Teal 2136-40

Each of these colours can work fabulously in kitchens – we envisage Brave Ground being used as a grounding, neutral shade alongside other tones, while Aegean Teal can work perfectly on cabinets and white walls to create a Mediterranean feel. If you love the feel of Illuminating but yellow walls feels like too much of a commitment, try pops of the colour on accessories on display, such as glassware, trays, chairs or lighting.

If you love the idea of vibrant Mediterranean walls, then we recommend pairing this with subtle grey light fixtures on your walls or ceiling.

 

 

Kitchen cupboards

Deciding the right cabinets for your kitchen can feel overwhelming – since there are so many incredible options to choose from. There are fantastic options for all tastes, but it is a wise decision to get the best cupboard carcasses you can afford. This means that in the future you’ll be able to update your kitchen simply by swapping out the cupboard doors, since many manufacturers create their kitchens to standard sizes.

There are a range of options when it comes to what your kitchen carcases are made from, and these are reflected in the price. Melamine-faced chipboard cabinets are a budget option, with plywood and solid wood cabinets being more costly. Be sure to do your research carefully to get the right type of fixtures for your home.

There are a number of types of kitchen cabinets that are popular at the moment:

 

Shaker-style kitchens

Shaker-style units have solid, painted timber doors that have a framed feature and veneered centre panel. While they’re a classic design that is likely to be popular for years to come, there are options to create very different looks, simply by choosing different colours. Neutrals such as cream or sage look classic, while whites paired with pastels can create a pretty kitchen. For a more dramatic effect, choose dark shades such as navy, slate or hunter green.

 

 

Slab doors

For the ultimate in minimalist cabinetry, choose slab doors. They look great in small kitchens, since they’re so simple – the lack of details can make the space feel bigger. To keep this style of kitchen feeling unfussy, choose matt effects, and avoid handles. We love the look in white, but different shades can create a modern effect, particularly in pastels. The simplicity of this style means that costs can be minimised and is a great option for a kitchen on a budget.

 

 

High gloss

While we expect the trend for high gloss white cabinets in kitchens to continue, there are more options to discover now. Lower maintenance neutral shades such as greys, taupe and creams, paired with marble effects provide the high-end look, without being quite so clinical.

 

 

Freestanding

Where there is a reluctance to attach units to the walls of a home – such as in period properties – freestanding units are a great option. Since they’re not necessarily made to measure, freestanding kitchen units provide the opportunity to rearrange the kitchen furniture once in a while.

 

Final details

When you’re finalising your kitchen cabinets, think about the details that will make your kitchen even better. Design details such as kickboards and cornices for the top and bottoms of your cabinets, and handles are essential to really round off your kitchen.

If you’re creating a family kitchen – particularly one with teenagers – you’re likely to want to add soft-close hinges and drawer runners to your cabinets. They add a small extra cost, but we think they’re worth the extra few pounds to ensure you’re not woken by a crashing drawer during midnight snack times.

As a final touch, consider adding under cabinet lighting to areas where you regularly prepare food. These are available in a range of light colours and can be hidden away behind molding; especially popular in period houses with more traditional cabinet styles.

 

 

Appliances

Many kitchen remodels don’t include new appliances – particularly on a budget. Luckily, since appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers are built to a standard size, buying new ones can be delayed until later. But if you’re changing appliances at the same time as the remodel, then buying all of them from the same manufacturer can help ensure that they complement each other.

 

 

Decisions about which appliances to choose, and where to place them will depend on the needs of the household as well as the space you have available in your kitchen. You don’t need to keep appliances where they have been traditionally either – so make them work for you. Examples include:

• Microwaves can be situated higher up on shelves, to free up work surfaces and avoid spills
• Dishwashers can be raised to make it easier to pack and unpack
• Ovens can be raised or lowered to make it easier to see cooking progress
• Cooking hobs can be installed on a kitchen island to make cooking space more sociable, particularly if the island is to be used as an informal dining space

When you’re choosing appliances – particularly for a small kitchen, but also if you’re trying to keep your design minimalist – choose appliances with multiple functions. A great example is a combined induction extractor hob, which eliminates the need for an extractor hood, or a combined washer/dryer. This means that you’d be able to use the space the extra appliance would have taken up for additional storage, or leave the space empty to create a more spacious feel.

 

 

Lighting for kitchens

The right lighting is essential for your kitchen to work for you. Having ambient lighting and task lighting is essential, but the layout, style of cupboards, colour scheme and amount of natural light that is available will impact on the lighting options that you might choose.

Downlights over work surfaces make sense – you need to be able to see what you’re doing in the kitchen! But if you’re lucky to have high ceilings and are adding stylish ceiling pendants, then consider fitting LED lights that are hidden under over-head cabinets to provide the additional functional lighting that you need, without compromising the impact of your feature lighting.

Whether you choose a modern take on classic kitchen styles, you choose a masculine, industrial style kitchen or you choose an on-trend, high-gloss kitchen, explore our range of ceiling lighting for kitchens here.

 

 

Designing small kitchens

When you’re designing a kitchen in a tiny space, you’ll need to ensure every inch of space is used wisely. With careful planning, you can ensure there is a place for everything – so make sure you’ve measured your space, and appliances before you start planning.

When space is tight, there are a few ways to make your kitchen feel bigger:

• Utilise the whole of one wall for cabinets to free the space that you need
• Tall units, or cupboards that reach the ceiling can make the most of space
• Try open shelving (particularly at a higher level) – just be careful to keep them tidy, since cluttered shelves will have the opposite effect
• Use colour carefully

Using colour in small kitchens can help to create a visual illusion of more space. Consider darker shades on base cabinets, with lighter, or neutral shades on the walls, can help to make the room feel like there is more space between floor and ceiling. However, using lighter shades throughout may work better where natural light is scarce – such as in this white and grey theme. If you’re choosing flooring, consider a bold floor tile to draw the eye to.

 

 

Adding seating to a small kitchen – especially if you have dining space elsewhere – might feel counter-intuitive. However, adding it in the form of a small island can create additional storage, and extra work space. If building one in isn’t an option, consider a mobile butcher’s block that can be wheeled to where you need additional space.

In order to keep clutter to a minimum, it is essential that everything has a place. Finding clever storage solutions for your kitchen wares is essential, so search online for the best ways to make use of every inch of your space – particularly for those awkward corners and high spaces.

Think creatively – racks to hold items inside cupboards in non-traditional ways can mean much more space than if you simply pile them in. Finding a wine rack, hanging pans from the ceiling, or hiding your gadgets in a designated cupboard so they don’t clutter the surfaces means that surfaces aren’t cluttered, while storing ingredients in jars has become a huge trend on social media because of how beautiful and spacious it can look when done well.

 

When it comes to lighting a small kitchen area, it’s best to avoid the current trend towards large ceiling pendants over kitchen islands or dining room tables, instead consider installing dimmable downlights that can be used to brighten up the room when hosting drinks with friends, or dimmed to offer softer lighting when enjoying a meal with your partner. Previously we mentioned under cabinet lights, and these are fantastic space savers, and are great for food preparation, but they can also be left on in the evening as a background light when you are settling down to relax.

If space is at a premium, consider moving your laundry appliances out of the kitchen. A utility room is a better place for them, or if that sort of space isn’t available, then look at where else they could be located. If you have a big bathroom, that can be an ideal spot, or a cupboard near the bathroom – it makes plumbing easy, and frees space in your kitchen. Not only that, if your bathroom is upstairs, you don’t have as far to carry clean clothes back to bedrooms. Put your iron and board with it to free that space too. Just be sure to check safety regulations before moving any electrical items to the bathroom.

 

Remodelling on a budget

When you want a completely new look for your kitchen but your budget doesn’t stretch very far, you might be inclined to put off remodelling until you’ve saved up. But if getting your dream kitchen is going to take some time, then there are things you can do on a much smaller budget to make things more stylish and comfortable until then.

With a small budget, there are many options for painting cupboard doors and walls, and to replace lighting to create an entirely different look. Replacing cupboard door handles can also elevate the look of the space with a small budget too. Assuming solid unit carcasses and a workable design, then replacing cupboard doors can elevate the feel of the kitchen at a much lower cost than replacing the whole kitchen.

 

 

If those aren’t an option, then buying a second hand kitchen can be. Finding used kitchens may be possible on websites such as Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree, but the perfect solutions may never become available. However, there are companies that specialise in second-hand kitchens, particularly for ex-display kitchens from showrooms and show homes. Like buying ex-demonstrator cars, you can get a lot more for your money by buying a second hand kitchen this way. In many cases, these companies also offer (or include) appliances from quality brands such as Siemens and Miele as part of the package.

Buying second hand may have additional costs that you need to budget for, particularly if your kitchen is a different layout, since screw holes may be exposed, or cabinets may need to be trimmed to fit your space. Professional installation will ensure that your second hand kitchen gives you the finish that you want, but at cost. However, even with these additional costs, buying second hand can still offer considerable savings on buying brand new.

 

 

For lighting on a budget, consider our range of ceiling pendants under £50 and wall lights under £50 to maximise your cost savings.

 

 

Before you head to the hardware store to get supplies for a bedroom redesign, you need to think about the functions that you’re decorating needs to fulfil. Decorating an adult bedroom is a pretty different task to that of a child or teenager that uses their bedroom for homework, or for a spare bedroom that functions as an office. The multiple uses for bedrooms mean that when choosing bedroom décor, you’ll also need to ensure you’ve got enough of, and the right type of lighting for the room. In this post, we’re going to take a look at some bedroom lighting ideas, touch on some great tips that ensure your lighting works well for you, before ending with some tips for bedroom décor in 2021.

 

How bright should bedroom lighting be?

Most homes require bedrooms to serve several purposes, from getting dressed and ready for the day, providing a place to sit and study, or to read, allowing us to relax ahead of sleep – and of course, to be romantic with our partners. With so many different needs from a single room, there is no wonder that many people opt to have a choice of lighting in their bedrooms. As a minimum, most bedrooms have lamps that are close to the bed, as well as the overhead light, to provide the perfect amount of lighting for any given moment. There are two main types of lighting that you need for your bedroom: task lighting, and ambient lighting.

Ambient lighting is designed to flood the room with light, providing nearly the same amount of lighting as natural daylight. This is often provided from overhead lights, using bright bulbs that make it easy to see what we’re doing. With dimmer switches fitted, ambient lighting can also act as mood lighting, providing more flexibility.

Task lighting refers to functional lighting within easy reach of the bed, at a dressing table for the application of makeup, or at a desk – such as in rooms for children, students, or those of us who now work from home and have to maximise the use of space. This type of lighting needs the correct type of light bulbs to be installed – white or blue-tinged light bulbs for desk lamps or at a dressing table, and softer, warmer light bulbs for bedside tables that are to be used before sleep.

Depending on the size of the bedroom and architectural features, accent lighting may be used alongside ambient and task lighting – and having a choice of all three types is a great idea, since it provides the most versatility for different circumstances.

 

Bedroom lighting ideas

While our bedrooms are where we rest, and the lighting we choose needing to be functional and adaptable for our needs, it should also suit our personality, and reflect our taste in interior design. With so many different tastes and styles for bedroom decor, there are endless options for bedroom lighting to set just the right mood.

 

Add a sculptural shade

Create a striking effect by adding a beautiful, sculptural shade that catches the eye. Whether you add the shade to a ceiling light, or to lamps on bedside tables, the effect can be striking with the right ones. Use sculptural shades on bedside tables with minimalist styling to let the design of the shade take centre stage, or find an unusual ceiling shade to create interesting shadows.

 

 

Use a chandelier

If you’re lucky enough to have a bigger bedroom and higher ceilings to work with, then look at chandeliers to help create a glamorous effect. There are a huge number of options when it comes to chandeliers (and that don’t necessarily mean weekly dusting is required!) and there are plenty of styles to suit every taste. A few examples include:

• Choose an uncluttered ceiling pendant in an unexpected metal such as black nickel for a sleek modern look
• A hanging candelabra design can add to cosy boudoir styling without the hassle or risk of burning candles
• To create a particularly grand effect, choose chrome and crystals to send light and mini rainbows bouncing across the room
• For a more retro feel, seek out sputnik chandeliers with multiple spokes to add a 1970s vibe

 

Choose soft light shades

A great bedroom is all about softness to relax into – and so accessories in the bedroom are all about textures too. Look for pieces that complement the feel of the room, in textures such as velvet or silk, or made from fabric with pleating. To add soft, textured lighting on a budget, try basic spherical pendant shades made from paper that can be found for just a few pounds.

On a standing tripod floor lamp, this unexpected feather shade draws the eye and gives off a glow that is easy on the eyes into the evening.

 

 

Make statement lamp bases the focus

There are some phenomenal statement lamp bases available today that can add interest to a bedroom. Choose from lamp bases in traditional shapes, but with unusual designs or striking colours, or find statuesque lamp bases that allow the shape to take centre stage. Searching online, it is possible to find lamp bases in the shapes of animals, with prints that complement the décor, or even that can hold plants – so it is well worth taking the time to browse for something really unusual and that suits the styling of the bedroom.

We love this Extravaganza lamp with it’s playful pop of yellow combined with it’s luxe softness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Keep it monochrome

Keep your bedroom simple and timeless, suited for visitors of any age by using a monochrome effect. Pure white walls feel crisp and fresh, with contrast from the furniture and black and white print with a dark frame.

If you’re on a budget, this look is ideal since you can choose simple and inexpensive bases for your bedside table lamps, and choose simple shades. To create a different feel to the room, switch out bed sheets for a coloured set, and change the print in the frame to one that matches the colour of the bed linens.

 

 

Evoke the feel of a chic hotel

When you’re decorating your spare room ready for guests, look to your favourite hotels for inspiration. Use shades from darker palettes to create a restful feel, with blackout curtains or shades to ensure your visitors sleep well. As in hotels, add wall lights on either side of the headboard to ensure no guests trip on their way back to bed. Be sure to use great quality bed linen and pillows to create a wonderfully comfortable room that your guests will want to return to, time and time again.

 

 

Use fairy lights to create atmosphere

Fairy lights have long broken their connection to Christmas and dingy student accommodations. While they’re not a traditional style of lighting for bedrooms – particularly for adult bedrooms – with the right type of décor and styling, fairy lights can be an incredibly inexpensive way to update and create atmospheric lighting in bedrooms for children.

Run a string of fairy lights along bookshelves to allow children who definitely aren’t afraid of the dark a little more visibility as they fall asleep, without the embarrassment factor of getting caught by their friends with a nightlight. For older teenagers, use a net of fairy lights above the bed to create a star-like effect, with piles of pillows and textured blankets to create a cosy, outdoorsy feel.

 

 

Bedroom lighting tips

When it comes to getting your bedroom lighting sorted, there are a few things we recommend thinking about before placing any orders.

 

Measure height carefully

As you’re choosing the style of your ceiling lighting, be sure to think about the individuals that will be in your bedroom regularly. If your partner, or another member of your family is tall, ensure the fixture has enough headroom clearance – bashing one’s head does not make for restful sleep!

 

Ensure your lights work for you

When you’re choosing lighting options, and lightshades for your bedroom, make sure you’ve got enough light where you need it – and that you don’t have too much where you don’t want it. If you’re a fan of reading in bed, be sure to check that you can see well enough with the bedside lights that you have chosen. With ceiling lights, think about whether the shade prevents the light from shining directly at your eyes when you’re laid on the bed – keep relaxation in mind.

 

Choosing lighting accessories

When it comes to setting the mood perfectly in the bedroom, sometimes additional accessories are required. In addition to choosing the right lighting – whether that is overhead lighting, wall lights, or lamps for your bedside table – you might want to consider which type of light bulb will set the right mood, and whether dimmer switches will help you create the right type of ambiance.

Nobody likes having to get out of bed to turn off lights – especially when they have just managed to get comfortable. Consider whether adding a smart plug controlled by your home assistant (such as Google Home or Amazon Echo), or through an app on your phone would make life just that little bit more relaxing. Unbranded smart plugs are starting to be more readily available and so prices are dropping – so adding one to your lamp gives you the luxury of never having to move when you’ve just got comfortable ever again. We have a range of bulbs that work with smart devices, please read the description carefully to ensure they work with the set up you have at home.

 

 

Combat Seasonal Affective Disorder

Few of us enjoy waking up in the dark in the middle of the winter. If you suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and struggle to wake during the dark mornings (or just hate waking up in the dark), one of the best changes you can make is to switch to an alarm clock with a built-in light. These alarm clocks have lights that gradually gets brighter the closer it gets to the time you need to wake, mimicking the natural dawn. There is plenty of evidence to suggest that they really work too. While the Lumie range are by far the best known, there are plenty of generic versions available online that provide the same experience.

 

Fighting insomnia

Falling asleep can be a huge challenge sometimes, even with a really great bedroom. If you suffer from insomnia, a sunrise alarm clock can help, since there are usually settings to mimic sunset, which can help you to fall asleep. If you have dimmer switches in your bedroom, use those to set lighting to a low level to help you wind down before bed, and be sure to add blackout curtains or blinds to prevent the sun from waking you early during the summer months.

When you’re decorating and choosing new lighting for your bedroom, don’t forget to choose warmer shades for your bulbs, especially for lighting that you use just as you fall asleep. White and blue-toned bulbs mimic natural daylight and are likely to stop you from falling asleep – which is absolutely not the desired effect. While we’re talking about blue light, it is a good idea to keep your phone or tablets out of the bedroom too. If you need to use tech into the evenings, turn on blue light blocking modes, and stop using them at least an hour before you need to sleep.

 

Bedroom decorating tips

We all know that our bedroom is our sanctuary, a place that we can go to escape the world and feel relaxed. But that doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone, and bedrooms should also reflect our personalities and individual tastes.

Depending on what you want to achieve with your bedroom, you’ll want to ensure the colours you use will promote a restful night’s sleep. Although you’ll naturally gravitate towards your favourite colours, it is better to use toned-down versions, particularly if you prefer brighter shades, and to use bright colours sparingly. Some colours are considered restful and calming, such as blues, lavenders, and pale greens, while cooler bedrooms may benefit from jewel tones or warm brown décor to evoke the feeling of cosiness.

 

Bedroom colours for 2021

If you’re looking to decorate your bedroom before lockdown ends and you’re looking for modern design ideas, you can’t go wrong if you start by checking Pantone’s colour of the year. This year, Pantone chose two colours for the year – 17-5104 “Ultimate Gray” and 13-0647 “Illuminating”, a bright sunny yellow.

Shades of grey have been popular for bedroom design for some time, due to the calming and restful feel that they bring to the room. While the bright yellow of Pantone’s Illuminating is likely to feel too bright on the walls of a bedroom for most of us, using Ultimate Gray on walls (alongside a white to prevent the room from feeling too dark) can create a perfect resting space. Add in pops of Pantone Illuminating throughout the room on cushions, bedspreads, and accent chairs for a truly 2021 bedroom.

If grey and yellow don’t suit your taste, perhaps the shade Brave Ground that Dulux have chosen for their colour of the year for 2021. Brave Ground is a warm, earthy shade of taupe that feels restful in a similar way to Ultimate Gray, but with more depth. It acts as a neutral and pairs well with other muted earthy tones, blues, and shades of deep pinks and lavender.

Finally, we look to US paint manufacturer Benjamin Moore. This year, they chose Aegean Teal 2136-40 for their colour of the year, a sun-baked teal that suits every room throughout the home, but looks wonderful in bright bedrooms paired with neutral blinds and furniture.

 

 

Bedroom furniture

Making choices about bedroom furniture depends on the space you have available. Before making any purchases, measure the space carefully, so that you can ensure the furniture you pick will suit the room. The bigger the room, so the size of the furniture needs to be bigger. If you’re working with a small space, choose smaller furniture with clever storage solutions, and consider using mirrors to reflect light and make the room feel bigger.

Remember, a tidy space is much more likely to feel restful. To keep your bedroom free of clutter, ensure your furniture has enough storage. Choose bedside tables with enough space to hold the items you need for bedtime, storage boxes or benches to keep extra blankets or pillows, and use storage organisation systems (that are widely available online) to maximise the use of space in your wardrobes.

 

Bedding

Since the average person spends about 26 years of their lives asleep, it makes sense to have bedding that encourages restful sleep. Invest in the best quality linen that you can afford, either in 100% cotton or linen, with a high thread count. Having throws, blankets, and cushions available to the bed provides additional comfort and warmth for when you’re sleeping.

For more bedroom lighting ideas, search our ceiling lighting, wall lights, and lamps.

We really believe that table lamps are a simple way to make a big impact in your home. They can be the star of the show, or a subtle nod to your overall design – but either way, they make the world of difference.

There are some people who think that table lamps only have one function: practicality. They’re often used specifically for task lighting, and they’re not always considered for their style or design. This can sadly result in the purchase of a boring table lamp – and we think that’s a real shame.

Here at Lighting Direct, the choice for table lamps is (pretty much) endless – whether you opt for a statement, industrial, or minimal style, there are plenty of options to suit your home décor – and there’s really no reason you should have to settle for anything boring.

It’s not always just about looking good, though. While enhancing the style of the room, well-designed table lamps also play a big part in setting the lighting ambiance in your home. In fact, there are some people in the world who frequently choose to forgo the use of The Big Light entirely, in favour of several well-positioned table lamps.

So, if you’re a fan of cosy evenings in front of the TV, romantic dinners with your partner, or casual get-togethers with wine, cheese and great music – we think you sound like a table lamp kind of person. If you still need a little convincing, we’ve hand-picked a few of our favourite pieces at Lighting Direct to help inspire you – and you can rest assured they’re anything but boring.

Statement Table Lamps
Vintage Table Lamps
Gold Table Lamps
Industrial Table Lamps
Novelty Table Lamps
Minimalist Table Lamps
Touch Table Lamps

 

The Statement Table Lamp

If you like to go bold in your home with bright colours and eclectic furniture choices, we think a statement table lamp could be right for you.

Much like a piece of jewellery, a statement table lamp is the ultimate accessory for your home. No room is quite finished without it, so let’s bring the wow factor up a notch.

For the eccentric side of you, consider this Edit Zebra Ceramic table lamp. With a warm orange finish, beautiful zebra design and brass hardware – this piece would work effortlessly in an atmospheric bedroom with dark charcoal walls.

 

 

Pair the lamp with a jet black shade for added drama, and surround it with brass accessories, rust-toned cushions and vibrant house plants to finish off the look.

For a softer take on the statement trend, try our Lucide Maloto Glass Table Lamp in white. The ribbed glass shade creates a show-stopping piece for the living room. Keep the colours of the room neutral and place the lamp on a simple stand, letting it do all the talking.

 

 

If those aren’t really your style, try making the statement with the light pattern instead or the lamp itself, with our Lucide Paolo table lamp. This laser cut metal lamp with a white finish creates a beautiful pattern of light against the surfaces surrounding it.

 

 

For the biggest impact, place the lamp near a dark wall in a particularly cosy corner – stand back and let the light scatter across the room.

 

The Vintage Table Lamp

If your home is inspired by times gone by, consider a vintage-style table lamp to add the perfect finishing touch.

Whether you prefer the flower power of the 1960s or the glitz and glamour of the 1920s, a well-chosen table lamp can help to bring your style together and ensure a completeness to the theme of your home décor.

This simple Sober table lamp is finished with a polished gold base and a smoked glass shade. With an art deco vibe, this piece is ideal for adding a soft glow to the dining room. The perfect accompaniment to an extravagant cocktail cart, this table lamp will see you through party season and beyond.

 

 

Another table lamp that would work in a 1920s-inspired home is this Endon Hiero Desk Lamp. The antique brass and unique shape make a strong statement, and would look beautiful with classic interior accessories & décor.

 

 

For a more masculine take, this Grimstad table lamp is the perfect vintage-inspired piece for your desk. With the dark brass finish, this lamp works best paired with dark furniture and atmospheric colours – a great way to add a touch of vintage to your office space.

 

 

 

The Gold Table Lamp

Are you a bit of a magpie with a penchant for metallic? We think the gold home décor trend will be right up your street for 2020.

A gold table lamp could be the perfect way to nail the trend with ease – either adding a subtle hint of glimmer or a bold statement depending on your style.

For a pretty addition, try the Lucide Timon Table Lamp in gold. With its rounded opal glass diffuser and elegant gold finish, it’s a lovely piece for your sideboard. Combine it with soft colours and textures to create a mellow vibe, or pop it next to a metallic vase for a glimmering display.

 

 

If you prefer to make more of a statement, have a look at our large Edit Sony Sloth Table Lamp. This extravagant piece is full of character, and a real show-stopper. We think this lamp looks great in living rooms – but place it on a side table with minimal distractions to let it do all the talking.

 

 

Another great option is the Edit Milla Glass Table Lamp. With its shimmering gold finish and green glass sphere shade, it reminds us slightly of a fortune-teller’s crystal ball. Of course, we’ve already seen your future – and it definitely involves incorporating this table lamp into your home décor.

 

The Industrial Table Lamp

The industrial home décor trend has been on the rise for several years now. Popular everywhere from warehouse apartments and trendy loft spaces to your local coffee shops and hipster restaurants – there’s no doubt that the style isn’t going anywhere.

Give your home an industrial vibe with this Lucide Pukki Table Lamp with a black cable and gold finish lamp holder. Designed to show off decorative filament bulbs, this piece works perfectly against exposed brickwork and repurposed wooden furniture.

 

 

Or, if your home is quite soft and cosy, this lamp can help give it that rough-and-ready feel synonymous with the trend.

Try the Lucide Mesh Table Lamp. With a black finish mesh and exposed decorative filament bulb, this lamp would look right at home alongside a vintage chesterfield sofa and some antique books or even add character to a room.

 

 

Perhaps simplicity is more your style. If so, let the beautiful filament bulb do all the talking with the Nordux Galloway Table Lamp in black. This piece looks great on a lighter wood surface, and helps to bring an element of the industrial to any room.

 

 

The Novelty Table Lamp

At Lighting Direct, we try not to take ourselves too seriously. We think the occasional addition of a novelty or quirky piece of lighting can really help to brighten up a home and make it a fun place to spend time.

Turn a somewhat lacklustre room into a fun and inspiring space again with the Lucide Cactus Table Lamp. A ceramic lamp shaped like a potted plant, this piece is sure to get your guests talking. It works in every room, but it’s especially fun as a desk accessory in your home office. It certainly helps to brighten up a dull day of reports – that’s for sure.

 

 

Alternatively, why not try one of our party lights? With fun shapes, colours and types available, they can make a great statement piece to wow your friends or create atmosphere for an indoor or outdoor event.

The neon `Let’s Dance’ Feature Light is a unique and impactful choice. Try it in the dining or living area as an interesting party piece, or consider adding it to your music set-up. Nothing says rock and roll like a record player, your favourite LPs and a touch of neon.

 

 

For a slightly more sophisticated form of novelty – you could consider one of our statement animal lamps instead. Style the Lucide Extravaganza Coconut Table Lamp with fun and colourful lampshades for an interesting display, or keep the shade minimal and let the base speak for itself.

 

 

The Minimal Table Lamp

Sometimes, there’s nothing better than a minimal home. White walls, muted tones, and natural materials can make for a really relaxing space. That’s why we’re big fans of the Scandinavian style home décor, and more recently the Japandi trend for 2020.

If you’re partial to a neutral colour palette and a clutter-free space as well, we have a selection of minimal table lamps to suit you.

This Lucide Len Table Lamp is a simple piece that adds a touch of interest to a minimal space. The grey metal base and white glass shade are a timeless combination, but the shape of the lamp makes it unique. It really suits a neutral aesthetic, and would look perfect next to light coloured wooden furniture and muted, natural soft furnishings.

 

 

For a touch of luxury, the Uno Glass Table Lamp is a great option. The antique gold finish with spherical pink glass is simple but beautiful – making it a great addition to a minimal home. Pair it with ashy grey walls and a fluffy cream rug for the ultimate luxury minimalism.

 

 

Our Deco Table Lamp is a slightly more elegant take on minimalism. A simple polished gold base paired with a spherical opal bulb – this lamp is truly stunning. We love it placed on a dark cabinet, styled with a few books against clean white walls.

 

 

The Touch Table Lamp

Our final collection of table lamps is possibly the most practical of all – the touch table lamp. With the ability to generate a warm glow of light with just the touch of a finger, they certainly make it a little easier to switch on your lamp in the middle of the night, when you’re fumbling around for your phone.

Not only are they stylish and practical, but they’re so easy to use. Just touch the base of the lamps to turn them on or off for the perfect ambience in your room without having to leave the comfort of your bed or chair.

We’ve mentioned a couple already, but one of our favourite touch lamps includes this Dar Jot lamp in chrome. A compact lamp with a polished chrome base and an opal glass shade, we think it looks right at home in a more feminine designed bedroom. Pop one on each side of the bed, and finish off the room with soft blush pink and sage green bedding.

 

 

For a more vintage look, the Dar Glouchester Touch Lamps are ideal. The antique brass finish with alabaster glass shades are elegant and stylish, bringing a warm diffused glow to your home when placed on a bedside or living room table.

 

So, if you were one of those people who thought that table lamps were boring, practical objects used only for finding your glasses in the middle of the night – we hope we’ve managed to change your mind a little.

One of the great things about table lamps, is that they don’t require any technical installation knowledge. They’re an easy and efficient way of incorporating a new trend or adding a touch of style to your room with very little effort. Just plug in and you’re good to go.

There’s really nothing stopping you going out and finding your perfect table lamp style now. Whether you opt for a show-stopping piece or a subtle design – it’s time to stop settling for boring table lamps.