A look at the ever popular trend of using Industrial Lights
We first looked at the trend for industrial lighting way back in 2015
Here we are 2023 approaching and it seems industrial styles are still impressing us. Revisiting the trend we see whilst much is the same there is a shift in what we deem to be industrial.
Industrial was closely followed by words “functional” Or “Utilitarian” the lowdown of industrial lighting was something that was basic and suited to its purpose. Quite often the materials used were metal maybe tarnished. A little rough and ready maybe even salvaged. However, it was all very workshop and raw at that time but now our homes are more elegant it’s actually morphed into something all together more refined. New styles of industrial lighting are coming to the fore.
Initially the trend was mainly reserved for kitchens and dining rooms being seen as specifically for above table lighting.
We said “Kitchens and dining rooms are first and foremost the easiest rooms to accommodate this trend, this is due to their specific lighting requirements. You’ll need to see clearly on a kitchen worktop or island and will need adequate lighting over any tables.”We went on to say “A plain metal ceiling pendant may be perfect for your kitchen” It was all function and little to do with form.
Well that was just the beginning of the phenomenal effect of industrial. Industrial lighting remained strong, as it pared perfectly with the mid-century aesthetics that came along later. This alone probably added to the popularity of industrial pendants and lamps. Both industrial and Modern still live on but have been re-interpreted and merged becoming mid century modern. Basically Industrial has been gentrified. As we mentioned it’s even more refined for the next decade.
Whilst once a metallic dome pendant would be perfect for an industrial utilitarian look. Now that would be a pantry light, oh my, we have set our expectations are higher. You’ve only got to browse Instagram or Pinterest to see that.
We are opened to so many more style influences. The American style has hit the UK and made everything bigger, brighter and far more bold and being open to seeing how others use interior design can sometimes embolden us too.
We are grouping multiple pendants are different heights, we have gotten daring, creative and individual.
Now that tastes have changed and we seeing more mixing of materials wood and metal, we are going dramatic with contrasting colours such as gold and white and black and gold. Even mixing metals which a few years ago that was seen as a no-no. But it is more exciting. Look out for textured glass and matt golds this has a vintage elegance.
What’s next will industrial be around for the next decade? Yes it will, be it will be more polished, less raw and with a good splash of pizzazz.
We are not saying throw away your desires for functional lighting, not at all! Lighting needs to perform a function, but it can be more glamorous too. Our homes especially the kitchen has become more open plan and this has seen a need for a much more grown up statement light. Something that is elevated befitting our posher kitchens.
There are many desk lamps which fit this trend perfectly, angle adjustable lamps particularly in a metal finish are spot on. These are set to stay with us for a while. A great reading lamp never goes out of style. Check out our desk light inspirations >>