5 lighting trends we love
Lighting is something that you typically notice when it’s really good or really bad. Many homeowners make the mistake of not having enough when it comes to lighting. Sometimes, certain events at your home call for different lighting. (Think an evening cocktail party.) People often wonder if they can mix finishes in their rooms (do the light fixtures in my kitchen need to match the cabinet pulls?). With so much to consider, we thought we’d highlight some of the trends we are loving now!
Chandeliers: Lighting with big impact
The classic overhead fixture has come a long way! Chandeliers can be had in contemporary designs with updated finishes.Warm metals are popping up everywhere! Think of fixtures made of rich copper (hammered or raw copper exude a natural beauty, while a satin finish feels luxurious) or brass. Brass fixtures can be polished, aged or burnished. The varying patinas give totally different looks! Brass is definitely making a comeback. A few weeks back, we shared an awesome photo of a powder room with a mosaic tile floor and brass bath fixtures. Check it out on our Instagram account!Gold tones (especially rose gold) are also hot this year. Like its brass counterpart, gold doesn’t always have to be shiny and bright.
Vintage Vibe: Upgraded
“Vintage” is one of those oft-overused words. When it applies to this year’s lighting trends, there’s a little “upgrade” from the typical looks that celebrate an older, industrial age. This year’s fixtures really showcase sleeker materials and modern technology. Sure, fans will still see the natural colors, rustic finishes and simple designs that have come to define vintage lighting.The sleeker materials make the lights feel more thoughtful in design and less “I found this old bucket, hung it upside down and screwed a lightbulb in it!”. Vintage lights work well in the kitchen (think above the island or work space) and as wall lights or sconces. (Image: Library Pendant by Troy Lighting, via Bellacor.)
Mixed Metals
It’s like wondering if you can wear a brown belt with black shoes. Can you mix metals when it comes to your lighting choices? The short answer is yes. Mixing metallic design elements can be achieved by doing it within a single lighting fixture or even within a larger design environment (an entire room).The key? Make your choices look intentional. Put some thought into it. One of the areas you can look to “mix” it up is the actual texture of the fixtures. Consider mixing hammered, matte and even polished finishes for a layered, rich look. You might also consider mixing warm metals (gold, copper) and cold (silver, chrome) metals.
Energy-Saving bulbs
As with many areas of their lives, homeowners are choosing to go green and conserve energy wherever possible. It comes as no surprise that choosing energy-saving lightbulbs helps homeowners create a more earth-friendly home. LED and CFL bulbs are currently the most efficient choices. These use up to 80% less energy and last significantly longer than incandescent bulbs. Before purchasing bulbs, make sure you light fixture is compatible!
Star light, Star BRIGHT!
Starburst fixtures catapulted onto the scene last year and they are still making major statements everywhere you look. You can see this bold fixture combines the WOWS of the gold and the starburst. (Image: luxxu.com)
Often, like a quick paint makeover, lighting is an inexpensive way to dramatically update your home. We often have sellers look at their lighting before we list and a) make sure there’s enough to highlight the home, and b) that it is updated and works with the aesthetic of the home. Read more about staging here.The Cami Jones Collaborative team is committed to helping our sellers realize top dollar for their homes! We offer best-in-class marketing support, and you can expect things like professional staging services, photography, expertly-made flyers, postcards, and a smart social media strategy. Contact us here or call us today at 913-402-2550 and let us show you how we use the latest and most effective technology to market it in a variety of ways.*Photo Credit: allen + roth Collinwick Pendant lanterns over the island via Lowe’s