FIVE OF THE BEST

LIGHT SWITCH BRANDS

Best for modern industrial Dowsing & Reynolds

Founder James Dowsing-reynolds creates design-led but affordable switches, dimmers and sockets in black, white, gold and silver, as well as tarnished copper. Single copper socket, £17.99. Scott Hall Mills, Leeds LS7 (dowsingandreynolds.com)

Best for slimline switches Jim Lawrence

This family-run Suffolkbased company’s slimline switches can be used in tight spaces, between doorframes or next to cabinetry for example. Two-gang toggle switch, £47.70. The Ironworks, Hadleigh IP7 ( jim-lawrence.co.uk)

Best for a minimal look Luxonov

For the ultimate in contemporary design, try this Belgian company, which produces handmade products in brass, exotic skins and woods – it ships to the UK. ‘Neva’ switch, £75. Rue de Spa 146B, 4970 Francorchamps, Belgium ( luxonov.com)

Best for a traditional look Holloways of Ludlow

The best place to find Bakelite switches. Front plates are available in a range of wood finishes, ready for painting. Switch on oak, £31.50. 121 Shepherd’s Bush Road, London W6 ( holloways ofludlow.com)

Best for elegant classics The Nanz Company

This US firm makes hardware based on original designs by companies such as Yale, Norwalk and Corbin Russwin. ‘9810LT3’ switch, £333. 420 Design Centre East, Chelsea Harbour, London SW10 (nanz.com)