Lighting is an art form that can complete the mood of any room
Q. I’ve been researching the topic of lighting as we make plans to build an extension onto our traditional home. There are so many more choices than I imagined with modern technology that I would like to incorporate one or two signature pieces. Where would you put the emphasis?
A. Your placement and choices for lighting in your new addition will enhance this area in many ways. You’ll want to make sure there is ambient light to brighten the rooms, functional or task lighting for reading and working, and decorative lighting that sets up your personal taste.
Over the ages, chandeliers and pendants, sculpted lamps, and lampshades festooned with silks and finery have defined a historic period and its penchant for a certain decorative style. There has been an awesome array of designs and shapes formed with a variety of materials, from basic wood to fine metals.
With the advent of LED lighting, trends have taken another leap in design. Modern lighting is imaginative and stylish and meshes beautifully with the traditional landscape. Think of a special lighting piece as a work of art, and give it the space it deserves to stand out and be noticed. I have chosen some examples that underscore artistic workmanship.
The CrackBowl pendant light designed by Korean designer Kwon Jae Min is created with unique materials such as wood coconut shells. It can be hung on its own or as a group to form a unique chandelier. The intricate carving plays with the light source.
Sconces are a practical way to add light without taking up floor space. Their position on the wall allows them to be a central feature, especially if they are formulated with an artist’s touch. Imagine the warm golden light that radiates from the Wall Sconce Ray by Shimale Light Art. This hand-painted colored glass sconce is made with quality raw materials and energy-efficient LED lights.
Neon tubing is another innovative avenue. I’ve seen these tubes draped like a string of pearls hanging on the wall. Also, and this is quite a wild look, wrapped as bizarre lifelike figures or sweeping paths traveling along the ceiling. Modern lighting is defined as having clean, geometric lines.
Pieces can stand alone as a single wand to be leaned up against the wall or running up a wall for a minimalist effect. They can be developed into all forms of rectangles or trapezoids. They are generally coupled with lights that are perfectly shaped circles or ovals that punctuate the ends. Industrial design rose in popularity in loft spaces as a return to basics and large-scale schemes.
Taking it to the next level, idlights.com has fashioned an oversized chandelier that is bold but softened with a mixture of Edison-style bulbs. The sockets have an oil-rubbed bronze finish. The 2-inch recessed frame gives the fixture strength.
When you choose your feature light, be sure to investigate the amount and color of light that the LED or other bulbs throw off. See if you can take the light for a trial run. I know you will discover an exciting piece that will become a star attraction in your home.
Debbie Travis’ House to Home column is written and produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Email decorating questions to house2home@debbietravis.com. Follow Travis at instagram.com/debbie_travis or facebook.com/thedebbietravis, or visit her website, debbietravis.com.