HT City

Set the perfect mood with these home lighting trends

- (With inputs by Sheela Lunkad and Vikas Gandhi)

The lighting industry is keeping pace with consumers as they become more aware and discerning in their choice of lighting solutions. Current trends reveal a growing preference for fixtures that are practical, energy-efficient, and reflect strong aesthetic choices. As a result, we have at our disposal a plethora of options that can be customised to suit every individual. Here are some of the latest trends in the lighting segment. Dimmabilit­y and

tunability: While lights need to be functional, consumers today have newer benchmarks in terms of look and feel as well. Plain lights are passe as it is the age of making a statement with lighting solutions that match your personalit­y. Innovative lights with features such as dimmabilit­y (light intensity) and tunability (colour intensity) are gaining strong demand as both are used to alter the ambience. Hand-crafted chandelier­s: Chandelier­s are one of the biggest statement-making accessorie­s in home decor. Big chandelier­s instantly attract attention and are perfect centrepiec­es and conversati­on-starters.

Available in wide variety — from unique sculptural designs to hand-crafted masterpiec­es in Murano glass, each has a following of its own. Chandelier­s in Murano glass are extremely popular as they are timeless symbols, the craft of which has been handed down for centuries among Venetian artisans.

Layering: The right lighting can make you feel relaxed or energetic. Warm yellow lighting is best used in areas meant for relaxation such as the living room or the bedroom. A combinatio­n of lights that are smartly placed can bring to life any room and are perfect to lend drama, when required.

Hanging clusters: Groups of three or more bulbs suspended from the ceiling are very popular these days, especially for living rooms. When installed in a corner and paired with a striking end table, they create a focal point for the room’s decor. A blend of the modern and the traditiona­l:

Customers are increasing­ly seeking contempora­ry and modern shapes which have a distinctly traditiona­l flavour. For example, straight-line lampshades, which are decorated with

hand-embroidery, are in demand.

Jewellery-inspired: While the minimalist trend is going strong, people are seeking ways to offset an otherwise simple room with a single statement piece. Lighting fixtures that mimic jewellery, such as filigreed sconces and lamp bases, are flying off the shelves.

Vintage designs: Trends have a way of circling back every few years. While modern designs are always sought, there is a demand for vintage-style lights as well. Pendant lamps crafted with patina-coated metal and lampshades of fine linen are as popular now as they were 40 years ago. Colour-changing LEDS:

Mood lighting that can change colour at the touch of a button is making its way into a lot of homes. These systems can be controlled with smartphone­s, and add a modern touch to your home. Energy-efficient

solutions: Not every decision is purely aesthetic. Growing awareness about environmen­tal concerns is boosting the demand for lighting fixtures that save energy.

 ?? PHOTO: ISTOCK ?? The right lighting can make you feel relaxed or energetic, and can also be used to make a statement through fixtures that match your personalit­y
PHOTO: ISTOCK The right lighting can make you feel relaxed or energetic, and can also be used to make a statement through fixtures that match your personalit­y

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