Let there be light: Uplifting summer interiors explored
Lighten up: It's time to make your lamps and ceiling lights work harder - Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Looking to brighten up your home for summer? It takes a mere flick of the switch...
Keats pendant, small, £78; chair from a selection, available from www.oka.com [Credit: PA Photo/Handout] - Credit: PA
If you’re thinking of getting the house ready for summer, one of the simplest style updates is to make the most of your indoor lighting.
Whether it’s playful touches with quirky lights, putting the beam back into bulbs, adding drama with a characterful chandelier or something as simple as changing a shade, the secret is to go with the flow and check out some of the current trends. After all, no-one wants their decor to be left in the shade...
Grenadilla table lamp, Saffron, £135; pleated phula silk empire lampshade, £98; table and mirror from a selection, available from www.oka.com [Credit: PA Photo/Handout] - Credit: PA
Warm glow
“People tend to underestimate the use and importance of light during summer, as we have natural light for so much longer. Whether you’re looking to add new lighting indoors or outdoors, the right lighting can really enhance your experience,” says Chris Jordan, managing director at Christopher Wray.
“Indoors, it’s great to go for fittings and shades that are lighter and airy, something that evokes warm weather and far-off destinations.”
Corinium lampstand, medium, £105; Oliver lampshade, warm white, from £16; furniture from a selection available at www.neptune.com [Credit: PA Photo/Handout] - Credit: PA
Ever changing moods
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When it comes to highlighting certain areas of the room, it’s important to consider where the natural light is falling, especially when there’s a bright blue sky outside.
Whether it’s a neutral background or moody paint effects, if you want to create a brighter, more open feel within the space, the colour of the walls and use of lighting is essential.
“Introducing oversized lighting is a fantastic way to add drama and interest to a living space,” says John Sims-Hilditch, co-founder of Neptune.
“The atmosphere that’s created from the light cast of a large pendant light can really alter the mood of a room. The material and colour of the drum is also an effective decorative accessory even when the light is switched off.”
Even choosing the correct light bulb for your pendant light is a simple way of altering the feel of the room, suggests Sims-Hilditch. Ask yourself how you want this room to make you feel.
“Light has the power to create a peaceful environment, where it can mimic natural pools of light, creating a serene ambience in your own home. Using a lower wattage allows for a more calming exposure, perfect for areas of the home that are intended to relax in.”
Splash of colour
“Lighting is a great carrier for colour. During the summer months, inserting splashes of vibrancy and colour either in bases or shades is a great way to update your decor to complement the warmer weather,” says Sophie Amini, designer, Pooky Lighting.
“Using lighting is less risky than doing a whole wall or a set of curtains in one bright colour. It can enhance a room yet allow for flexibility, and does not have to be a huge expense. We have a beautiful range of table lamps in a range of materials which are an affordable and simple way of adding colour and interest to your room without breaking the bank.
“Even when you switch them off, your lamp will still look beautiful.”
Indeed, investing in a funky shade, base or exotic palm-shaped table lamp, and mix ‘n’ matching with cutting-edge pieces that can be moved around is far more fun (and less risky) than committing to a curtain call that looks the same 24/7.
