Choosing your traditional ceiling lights
Sometimes, we crave a little nostalgia for our homes. They add gravitas to modern homes, or an authentic embellishment to period properties. Traditional ceiling light fixtures can brighten and enliven your home.
What is your interpretation of traditional lighting? In truth, it can vary massively. For those in Generation X, a retro style, or even something from the 80s could be classed as traditional. For others, it may be Art Deco, or stretching right back to the Edwardian or Victorian styles of traditional lights.
Traditional lighting carries the echoes of past eras through to the modern day. This is why the phrase can result in different visions.
Below, we walk through the footsteps of lighting design through the ages.
Medieval Lighting
Think of castles. Kings and knights feasted in a hall, showing off their wealth with a large, cartwheel candelabra light.
Techniques were still being honed. They were made out of wrought iron and clearly showed the makers’ marks and efforts.
Towards the end of this period, Gothic-style lights were introduced. Influenced by Cathedrals and churches, they often featured an arch shape that mirrored the ornate stained glass windows and welcoming doors.
Jacobean and Tudor Style Lights
As techniques improved, passed down from Father to Son, more embellishments creep in.
Different materials are used too, as we see an introduction of carved wood and pewter.
Georgian Lighting
With a design inspiration fresh on the breeze from Europe, we see an invigorating lightheartedness in interior design.
Elegant scrolls, sparkling crystals and bright metalwork are the epitome of this era.
You’ll also see a Regency style creeping into hallways and vestibules in this era. Solid and reliable, these ceiling lanterns are still really popular as hallway lighting today.
Edwardian and Victorian Lighting
With a period of mourning lasting for the latter part of the Victorian era, interiors were dark. Burgundy and dark green were favoured and a sense of proprietary was observed at all times.
Gas lighting was prolific in this era and we see many designs that housed the gas. These were usually in a globe chamber, similar to the below.
Opal glass globes were also hugely popular, as they retained the gas within the glass.
Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Replica Tiffany Lights
During and after the first World War, there was a desire for a modern outlook. Shifting the focus from make-do-and-mend to having the latest fashion was the mood of the moment!
Art Nouveau lighting delighted in celebrating florals and fauna. Introducing nature’s colours with gentle organic forms bought a fresh look to our interiors and archictecture.
Art Deco lighting bought a contrast. Geometric shapes and monochrome colours created a bold impact and filled the void in the search for modernity.
IMAGE – Tiffany
Tiffany glass lights created a tangible look that is still popular today. Jewel and gem tones popped into interiors. Bringing a look that varies from day to night, they create a fabulous impact.
Retro Lights
Retro lighting evolved from the need to keep up with the times. Starting in the 50’s, there was a national recession. This led to mass production techniques, making lighting available to all.
We often see this look in pubs, bars and restaurants. It’s clear to see why! Instantly welcoming with the hint of a bygone era. It’s instantly relaxing, yet fun.
Classic Traditional Lighting
This classic lighting look is reminiscent of glamorous Manor Houses. Elegant and timeless, they exude a quality finish that stands the test of time.
Check out all of our traditional ceiling lights on offer! Which is the right look for your home?