In the ever-evolving realm of interior decor, the spotlight has shifted—quite literally—to stylish lighting fixtures. Gone are the days when plants and vases dominated our living spaces; now, it’s all about the artful placement of side lights and table lamps. As our homes become increasingly visible on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, the scrutiny of our decor choices has intensified, leading to a surge in demand for aesthetically pleasing lighting options.
According to Harriet Pringle, chief executive of the secondhand homeware platform Narchie, there has been a remarkable 47% increase in lamp sales compared to the previous year. This surge in demand has prompted major retailers to expand their lighting departments, with John Lewis and Heal’s leading the charge.
Camilla Rowe, head of home accessories buying at John Lewis, emphasizes the transformative power of lighting in home decor, noting that the right ambient lighting can add depth and create a cozy atmosphere. Similarly, Claire Anstey, lighting buyer at Heal’s, highlights the growing preference for softer illumination provided by table and wall lamps, which also serve as decorative accents.
One of the key drivers of this shift is the advent of cordless lamps, which offer greater flexibility in design and usage. Portable and rechargeable, these lamps are ideal for illuminating dark corners or creating ambience both indoors and outdoors. Mushroom-shaped cordless lamps, in particular, have captured the imagination of consumers, with options available at various price points, including the iconic Panthella lamp by Danish designer Verner Panton.
In addition to providing light, these lamps also serve as stylish decor pieces, with colorful designs and sculptural forms gaining popularity. Helen White, co-founder of Houseof, highlights the trend towards abstract and organic shapes in lighting design, reflecting a desire for unique and eye-catching pieces.
The intersection of art and lighting is also explored in exhibitions like Shine On at Sadie Coles HQ, which showcases lights created by artists such as Sarah Lucas and Jim Lambie. While some of these artistic creations may not find mass appeal, they demonstrate the creative possibilities inherent in lighting design.
Customization is another key trend, with brands like Pooky offering a vast range of shades and bases for customers to create their own unique lighting solutions. This focus on personalization reflects a desire for individual expression in home decor.
Moreover, lamps offer practical benefits for renters, providing a simple yet effective way to enhance the atmosphere of a room without the need for extensive installation or renovation. As White notes, new lighting can dramatically transform the feel of a space, making it a worthwhile investment for those looking to refresh their interiors.
In essence, stylish lighting has emerged as the latest must-have in interior design, offering both form and function in equal measure. Whether it’s adding a pop of color, sculptural flair, or a touch of artistic intrigue, lamps have beco
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