House Beautiful (UK)

NORTHERN LIGHTS

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Why is lighting so important?

Good lighting is like good music – it can put you in the right mood, while bad music and bad lighting can ruin the atmosphere. Using the correct lighting for the activity is key and knowing how to adjust and change it can make a huge difference to your home.

The big new trend

Smart lighting, where you can dim all the lights, but also change the tones and scale, from warm to cooler. All styles have a place but our PS pendant lamps in copper and silver are especially popular.

Personal favourite

At the moment it’s the Hektar (above), which is a versatile lamp design that fits into both modern and more rustic homes.

My lighting at home

I live in Kullavik, south of Gothenburg. My lighting at home is a mix of new and old, and direct and ambient lighting for different moods and activities. I’m very proud that it’s all LED, including the ceiling spotlights, as this is more energy efficient than traditiona­l lighting such as fluorescen­t and incandesce­nt options. It feels great to use modern technology and I can’t wait to upgrade my whole house to a smart lighting system.

My childhood home

I grew up in a suburb of Stockholm. I’ve always loved furniture design and improving my surroundin­gs. We had a fantastic antique chandelier above the dining table, which gave the most wonderful glow.

Björn’s top tips

1 It’s worth installing more light spots than you think you’ll need.

2 One ceiling lamp in the centre of the room isn’t enough to create a cosy space. 3 It’s essential to be able to change and adapt your lighting to suit a variety of activities and occasions.

 ??  ?? Björn’s favourite, the Hektar pendant, is available in a bronze, white and dark grey finish, £39
Björn’s favourite, the Hektar pendant, is available in a bronze, white and dark grey finish, £39
 ??  ?? BJÖRN BLOCK, 42, is global range manager for lighting at Ikea
BJÖRN BLOCK, 42, is global range manager for lighting at Ikea

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