We all need to light our homes, but if you get lighting wrong, it can look dated. So here are the latest lighting trends predicted by the industry for the coming year.

Wondering what 2023 lighting trends are going to be? We can help. Playing a vital role in all homes, lighting helps to set the mood and ambience in each and every room. As we head into the new year, homeowners and designers are taking more time to consider the finer details. It’s essential that each and every element of a home’s design is thought out and considered. Here, Piero de Marchis (Director at Detail Lighting) and a few other experts talk us through the key trends set to illuminate 2023.

Firstly: ambience is key

“Ambient lighting allows you to set the mood and change the ambience in a room,” explains Piero. “It’s a key part of planning a design scheme. Homeowners are paying far more attention to the way spaces in the home make us feel, as well as their function. From dim-to-warm technology to discreetly hidden accent and spotlighting, mood-enhancing lighting is set to continue to be a key consideration for 2023 and beyond. In particular, in bathrooms, bedrooms and multifunctional spaces such as open-plan kitchens.”

Secondly: consider multifunctional lighting

“Our homes are having to work harder for us than ever before, with an increase in spaces having multiple functions,” warns Piero. “From open-plan living areas to kitchen-dining zones, the trend for installing multifunctional lighting is set to continue to rise. This lighting can be adapted to suit the room as it’s being used. Dining rooms are very often multifunctional spaces; different circuits will allow you to provide different lighting effects and light levels. Perimeter lighting, separated from central lighting, can also help to separate the central focus on a kitchen island for example. And change the overall mood to go from functional to inviting.”

2023 lighting trends: Hidden and discreet lighting

Piero has also noticed a boom in hidden lighting. “We have noticed a considerable move away from downlighting to LED and hidden lighting. We believe this will continue to be a prevalent trend throughout next year. Track lighting is also becoming an increasingly popular choice. It enables homeowners to adapt and discreetly move their lighting scheme from one area to the next with ease.”

2023 lighting trends: Softer lighting

Piero says softer lighting is going to be big. “When it comes to bathroom lighting in particular, there has been a shift towards softer, more considered lighting solutions. The trend for spa bathrooms is set to remain prevalent for many years. So we will continue to see more low-level lighting on either side of WCs and also behind freestanding baths. This well-placed and considered lighting allows homeowners to achieve the perfect balance between practicality and the desired spa sanctuary feel.”

Lighting trend predictions from BHS

Julian Page, Head of Design at BHS, also gave his thoughts on upcoming 2023 lighting trends:

“As ever, there are many lighting trends in circulation. Some are relatively new and some are a response to trends that have had a global presence for some time now. Now, more than ever, our homes are our sanctuary and a cave for cosiness. Lighting is not only functional, but it also plays a huge role in setting the atmosphere within our interiors.”

“As we move into 2023 and beyond, we will see a continuation and refinement of some existing trends. While others will grow in prominence as consumers and designers begin to turn away from lighting trends of the past five years. Lighting will become more eclectic and unusual, as customers seek a greater level of personalisation with their choices. Glass bubble lighting, black and brass finishes, and sculptural lighting will be evident. Households will use spaces for multi-functional living as well as looking for lighting that can also act a piece of art. The popularity of battery powered lights is increasing as the cost of living impacts households across the country.”

“Sustainability continues to be an important cultural consideration, with more natural weaves being shown on shades and surfaces. Consumers and designers are exploring eco-friendly materials and pursuing manufacturing options that have a low impact on the environment and speak of artisanal innovation.”

Lighting trend predictions from Empty State

Ian Cameron, Creative Director of Empty State, made predictions for 2023 lighting trends too:

“We expect glass variations will continue to grow in popularity in 2023. Innovation in design will encourage the development of unique and show-stopping lighting pieces in simplified forms. All of our designs at Empty State feature a combination of brass or metal elements with glass (both clear and coloured). When illuminated, these glass and brass elements come alive. We are also noticing trends towards incorporating black finishes within interiors at the moment. The black anodised finish in our range adds a contemporary edge and a great architectural flair to a space.  

“In a kitchen, we recommend having a beautiful pendant as the centrepiece, whether above a kitchen island or a dining table. Hung centrally above an island, an elongated light positioned horizontally draws the eye in and brings the whole space together. Helping to create zones, the soft glow emitted from a centrepiece distinguishes a different area in the kitchen, clearly defining a space made for socialising and eating.”

Featured image: a stylishly illuminated kitchen from Detail Lighting.

So, did you enjoy this feature? Then you’ll love our feature on ways to light your bedroom.

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