We’ve all seen it – spaces that look stunning in photos or moodboards, only to feel off in reality. The difference between looking good and working well is great lighting design.
A lighting designer solves lighting problems, and a great lighting plan integrates function into the design, rather than tacking it on afterwards. Instagrammable interiors often inspire, but not all trends work well in real life…
A good designer doesn’t remove practicality – they make it look stunning!
Here are three examples of trends where aesthetics have forgotten about function:
🚫 Pendant or Chandelier Over the Bathtub
It looks luxe, but did you know it can actually break UK electrical safety regs? Unless it’s at least 2.25m (approx. 7.4ft) above the bath, it’s a no-go. Why? Moisture + electricity = danger, but also, if you can easily reach it, it becomes at risk of being grabbed onto if you stand and slip.
💡 If you really want a bathroom pendant light, consider placing it in the centre of the room, where it won’t have direct contact with water. Also, look for moisture-rated pendant lights.
🚫 Bare Bulbs Everywhere
They might look trendy, but bare bulbs as your main light source can be blinding. And because there’s no shade to shape the light, you get glare with zero direction, which is terrible for tasks or relaxing.
💡 If you love the industrial look, use it as accent lighting only. For general lighting, go for diffused light sources, like shaded pendants, wall washers, or indirect LED
🚫 Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
Huge floor-to-ceiling windows or entire glass walls are dramatic and beautiful, but they can create serious lighting challenges if not thought through. Carefully considered lighting is essential to avoid:
“Black Mirror” Effect
- At night, big windows turn into dark reflective walls if interior and exterior lighting isn’t balanced.
- Makes the room feel smaller and destroys the view.
Insufficient or “Flat” Lighting
- People assume the massive window gives enough light — but once the sun sets, the room can be cave-like without layered lighting.
Bad Fixture Placement
- Ceiling lights that were fine in a normal room can look lost against the scale of a glass wall.
- Fixtures often aren’t scaled up to match the grand proportions.
We are lighting specialists. Very simply, we solve people’s lighting problems and are all about making your spaces look and feel fabulous.
If you are struggling with your lighting, struggle no more – give us a call or an email, or book in for a free chat. You might be surprised at how even the simplest of changes can lighten your life.
