Lighting Trends for 2019

Lighting can totally make or break a room, and it can be easier to change out than you think, even in a rental. Don’t let an old crappy fixture bring down an otherwise awesome room.

Sometimes, the biggest changes to your décor are also the easiest. That’s the case when it comes to lighting: By simply adding a lamp or swapping out pendant lights, you can make a big difference in the look and feel of your home – without a lot of effort. Here is an update on the latest trends in lighting and our top picks for each.

Landscape

Linear lighting that spans the width of the room as opposed to the traditional vertical drop creates a fresh feel. Look for clean-lined, simple fixtures with exposed bulbs to really emphasize this trend.

Natural fibre

Wicker and woven grasses are everywhere right now.

Wicker is everywhere in home décor, and lighting is no exception. It’s exceptionally versatile and works with styles from traditional to boho.

Large simple baskets have evolved and are expanding into more unusual shapes and colours.

Sculptural

Just like your favourite piece of artwork, the lighting in your home can be unique and say something about your life and sense of style. Lighting designers are becoming more experimental with materials and textures, so find pieces that double as a work of art.

Retro

Industrial has always been about rustic finishes, neutral colours and an emphasis on metal. We are seeing retro making a comeback but in a different way. If you look at modern industrial lighting, there are some stark differences to what you know as traditional industrial. The ‘modern retro’ showcases sleeker metals that are richer with more varied tones and alternative designs.

Industrial

Older lighting fixtures often mean intricate patterns and metalwork, which is not ideal for modern versions of industrial style.

For hanging lighting, opt for fixtures that spread across the width of your room, instead of dropping low into the space. Add exposed bulbs with visible filaments for a feeling that is especially industrial.

Wood

Wooden lighting fixtures have become increasingly popular over the last few years. Manufacturers have introduced real wood or wood-look fixtures (metal painted to look like wood). We love the authenticity that comes with their rustic styles, and especially the display of reclaimed wood fixtures that have a real history.

Art Deco

Simple and a little retro, globe pendants are a subtle accent with a big impact. Looking for an especially easy upgrade? Instant pendant lights come ready to hang – no wiring necessary. Just screw into a regular light socket and enjoy.

Exposed bulb

Exposed hanging lights with Edison Bulbs add an architectural element to a room. We love the simplicity of these lights – major style, zero fuss.

Brass

We hope you have a soft spot for gold because it’s coming in strong, particularly in lighting. This has already produced a return to real brass, not the fake lacquered shiny brass, in classic fixtures and chandeliers.

Marble

White Marble made a comeback a few years ago in lighting via the uber-popular arc floor lamps with marble bases. Here’s the side table/desk lamp rendition.

Geometric

Trendy geometric shapes have given chandeliers casual appeal – making them lighting candidates for just about anywhere in the house, especially the kitchen.

Glass Pendants

Clear pendants are a charming mash-up of rustic and industrial design. Add an element of fun by hanging them at varying heights – the clean silhouettes and exposed Edison bulbs will keep the look sophisticated.