Trends in Lighting Design

Design is king. Content is king.  Globalization is emperor... the analogies continue as people try to figure out trends.

Today, lighting trends lead consumers to fixtures that are both functional and aesthetically appealing. Gone are the days when practicality held the lighting throne. Now, light is expected to be just as useful as a decorating accessory, as it is for illuminating.  Source: American Lighting Association

Trends in lighting vary with who's buying the lighting fixtures, bulbs and control systems.  In the consumer market, design is very important.  Light fixtures are part of the decor of the room, and they can enhance or detract from the visual beauty and comfort of the living space.

Kitchens need great task lighting and they need to be subtle in design -- hence, recessed lighting, indirect lighting, and even solar tubes.  They all provide great task lighting and don't add clutter to an already detailed room filled with cabinets, hardware, ranges, sinks and other detailed design elements.

Other trends matter:

ENERGY COSTS are growing and lighting can add up to 25% to the monthly energy bill.  High efficiency lighting such as CFLs and LEDs are growing in popularity in both new construction and remodeling. 

SAFETY matters.  Fire rates affect safety choices, and electrical outlets, lighting certifications such as Energy Star are increasingly part of the planning process.  Quality manufacturing has become a concern as cheap imports have become the norm in many shopping venues -- and the conscientious home owner is often as concerned with the LABEL as the PRICE.

DESIGN is an ROI and Lifestyle choice.  If a consumer has a choice between a design that meets their tastes and one that doesn't -- design can be the tipping point.  If an interior designer has the choice -- design often comes first.  That's their job.

Lighting showrooms are the best way to investigate energy efficiency labels as well as design factors such as scale, quality of manufacturing, and professional guidance.  The ALA offers a set of "lighting tips for the home" that can be helpful in keeping up with trends in lighting fixtures, lighting design and lighting safety.

Visit ALA's website or a local ALA member showroom for more information.

American Lighting Association

www.americanlightassoc.com