LET THE LIGHT IN Statement

BRIGHT IDEAS

From chandeliers to bespoke pieces, be bold and use layers of lighting this autumn for warm, ambient interiors, writes Tallulah Rushaya

Through design and scale, lighting can transform any interior space. The right lighting can make the ultimate impression within the home. With statement lighting paving the way for of-the-moment maximalist, bold luminaries, 2022 has marked a move away from harsh single bulbs and plain lampshades.

The architectural chandelier has evolved from the crystal teardrop pendant showstopper of yesteryear, mixing shapes and various glass hues, creating a 3D statement and evoking drama. The sculptural take on the chandelier, depending on how it’s designed, can illuminate the room when the lights are switched both on and o . “I’m obsessed by the way light can change a room. When I design lighting, my approach is always more artistic and sculptural, but the way the light will impact the room is always the number=one consideration,” explains Mimi Shodeinde, founder of Miminat Designs (miminat.com). “Pendant or sensory lighting

WATTS TO LOVE

Main image: To illuminate this modern south-west London dining room, René Dekker used Patrizia Garganti lighting Above: Skipper Small Tilow pendant wall light, £420, Tom Raffield with a touch of colour will immediately create a sense of intimacy and warmth. I love to incorporate a large-scale pendant light above a dining table, it gives guests a focal point.”

Bespoke lighting can ensure that you’re a part of the creative process from start to finish. Knowing there are endless options, may make the process appear daunting, but leading designers are on hand to help. “In social spaces within the home, position your statement piece centrally – above a kitchen island or dining table, for example. Not only is this a functional approach to illuminate and distinguish the space, but it also attracts the attention of you and your guests,” shares Ian Cameron, creative director of Cameron Design House (camerondesignhouse.com). “It’s perfect for creating an intimate atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression. Always opt for a bespoke piece that fills the space to achieve the correct balance and amount of light needed.”

Considering the room itself, and interior elements can guide which

lighting fixture to choose. Layered lighting can achieve an atmospheric e ect, turning your home into a sanctuary. Playing with accent lamps, recessed lighting, or globe lights, can create a variety of moods. “Always consider including di erent layers of light in your design project. Choose fixtures and portables that coordinate with architectural elements in the room and ensure you provide enough task light and moody ambient light through statement portables and wall lights,” advises Deborah Lucas, marketing director at Elstead Lighting (elsteadlighting.com). “Saving some of your budget for a dramatic chandelier or pendant centrepiece will provide the cherry that will bring your room to life.”

Lighting designer Tom Ra eld’s creations are all inspired by nature, using traditional craft processes, resulting in handmade lights

GLOW UP Clockwise from top left:

Cameron Design House's sculptural Halti chandelier; a Crystal Skye chandelier by Kichler; the dramatic Quintiesse Laguna eight-bulb pendant light; Ellen Merchant Poppy lampshade, £49, Pooky; a set of three Aster pendants by Kichler

that last a lifetime. “Statement lighting designs will pack instant punch and transform any space. Drawing the eye and creating unforgettable impact, statement style doesn’t always have to mean a large-scale addition to your home,’ says Ra eld (tomra eld. com). “Consider sculptural table, wall, floor and flush-fitting designs crafted from sustainable materials that produce striking shadows.” 2022 has seen a renewed interest in craftmanship. With sustainable living now being a priority, this has translated into a wider appreciation for handmade interiors.

Brightening up is not only limited to the light fixture itself. This year has also seen the rising trend of bright colours, pretty much everywhere. Embrace mixing uplifting shades and patterns. “One client loved the midcentury style, so we decided on a Saarinen Tulip table as well as Niels Otto Møller dining chairs. So, it only felt fitting that we should finish it o with a classic Louis Poulson pendant but in a contemporary colour way,” explains Pandora Taylor, interior designer (pandorataylor.co.uk), “The best thing about the vintage trio is that they sit in front of this traditional William Morris wallpaper, but it’s the vibrant colours of everything that makes the scene so contemporary.” The influence of art deco – characterised by sophisticated silhouettes, embellished with touches of gold or bronze – is one that has, aptly, had a resurgence in the 2020s. “We always consider statement lighting to elevate our schemes so be experimental with brass, rattan or lacquer pendants,” says Lucy Barlow, creative director of Barlow and Barlow (barlowandbarlow.com). “My favourite lights, which we’ve used in our latest project, Kin House, are barley twist wall lights we designed and had made by my brother, Maxwell Barlow Lighting (maxwellbarlow.com). We wanted to ensure the overall lighting scheme was varied, crossing a lot of di erent styles to instantly uplift the space, which was great fun!” L