One of the many perks of writing a column is being given the opportunity to share what鈥檚 new and exciting in the home and lifestyle world.
The digital age has sped up changes in all facets of our lives. It鈥檚 not just computers and phones. How furnishings are designed and built and the wildly imaginative execution of patterns on fabrics and paper have all been touched by the techno age.
The universal need to conserve natural resources has pushed the limits of what we accept as practical household products that are also beautiful, fresh and affordable. That鈥檚 a big jump, and there is always something new and impressive just around the corner.
The lighting industry is one of my favourites to watch. The emergence of power-saving and thus dollar-saving LEDs has challenged the hydro-hungry standard-wattage light bulbs, and new lighting designs emerged.
The first LEDs were a bit harsh, a bright white that didn鈥檛 suit many interior needs. Warm whites and colours are now available, as well as LEDs that fit older fixtures.
Some LEDs are dimmable, which is a major bonus for controlling the mood in any space. Options have never been so diverse.
Although LEDs cost more than standard light bulbs, they last for years, so cost is not an issue. Be sure to buy good quality or you will be disappointed at their performance.
Black and white are always an impressive mix. And so is black and light. I discovered this contemporary dining vignette at uplightgroup.com.
It has bold, youthful energy. The matte black Pilke pendant lights show off a unique geometric design that is soft and inviting.
The award-winning wooden structure from Finland is assembled using interconnected birch plywood parts. The light source is E26LED, a warm white LED globe bulb that twinkles through the slats.
Another striking example of black and light is the Fahrenheit pendant by Troy Lighting. A series of nested and tiered cones forms an unusual cylindrical shape.
The outer cone, finished in textured black satin, frames inner cones that have hand-applied gold leaf, so light is reflected in a warm golden hue. It鈥檚 available in a one or three-light LED pendant.
If you鈥檙e thinking of introducing the defining presence of matte black to your decor, why not change up a few of your existing lampshades with a dramatic black style. Visit your favourite lighting store or check out what鈥檚 new online.
You鈥檒l find a dizzying array of choices, from a black faux suede shade lined in leopard print to one made of black fabric that is pleated, trimmed with beads or sparkling with sequins. Shapes large and small range from sophisticated to frilly. A black metal lamp, pendant or chandelier will become a statement piece in your room.
As with any new design direction or dramatic change in colour, it鈥檚 always best to experiment. Take your time, drape some black fabric over a lamp to get the feel (don鈥檛 leave it too long, or you could start a fire). Then go on a search for a pendant light, sconce, or bedside light that captures your interest.
An unusual shape or style will steal your heart.
Written by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle.
Email decorating questions to [email protected]. Follow Debbie at instagram.com/debbie_travis, facebook.com/thedebbietravis, debbietravis.com.
