Favorite Luxury Lighting Brands.
On my Radar…
As a natural focal point and an instant mood-setter, lighting is an integral part of an interiors scheme. From Sputnik chandeliers and pared-back pendants to sculptural desk lamps, the right light can pull a room together in the same way that accessories can enliven an outfit, with the added bonus of being easily updatable. I always think it’s worth spending as much as your budget will allow on good lighting. Here are a few of my go-to brands and favourite pieces:
1 . CTO Lighting
The handmade options at CTO are both timeless and impactful. I love the Floren Pendant, with its subtle arts and crafts references, and recently used it in a project in Malta.
2. Bert Frank
Sculptural pieces are like artworks in their own right. This Opaline wall light, with its soft, ambient glow and art deco-inspired design is both mellow and eye catching.
3. Lee Broom
A statement light is a great way to anchor a space. I love the contemporary nature of Lee’s pieces, especially the installation feel of the Orion Tube light with its unique blend of drama and simplicity.
4. Utu
I discovered this brand while browsing at Maison & Objet. Its pieces are playful and well-priced. The Frame suspension lamp featuring rattan, metal and terrazzo looks beautiful above a dining table.
5. Ay illuminate
A go-to for simple but stylish lamp shades. Their natural, contemporary look reminds me of relaxing escapes to Ibiza or Marrakech.
6. Ochre
For investment pieces, Ochre offers modern classics that are heirlooms of the future. Its Arctic Pear Round Chandelier adds a timeless, glamorous note to both simple and opulent schemes.
I’m often asked if certain lights suit particular schemes and styles and how to create a mellow mood that retains a sense of practicality too, so here are a few of my thoughts…
In The Right Light…
Lighting doesn’t need to break the bank when it comes to creating a luxury look.
A mix and match approach works well – spend the most you can afford on statement pieces and combine them with more affordable lighting elsewhere. Try using lighting to warm up lesser used spaces. Turn a side table and armchair into a cosy reading nook by adding a table or standing lamp to throw a pool of soft light downwards. I also like to use picture lights over art - a small but effective detail.
Bear In Mind…
With clever lighting, the same scheme can fulfil many different living requirements, from cosy dinners to late night movie watching. I prefer to banish the overpowering light hanging from the centre of the room, which doesn’t make for a relaxing bedtime or a pleasant chill-out, and go for layers, up and down, so you can adapt to different moods and activities. This means a mixture of overhead lights, pendants, floor-standing lights and table lamps. Dimmers are essential too, as they provide much greater control. Ask your lighting designer or electrician to install several circuits, enabling you to introduce texture and depth.
Tricks of The Trade…
When I’m designing a scheme, I always try to be generous with lighting. A trio of pendant lampshades over a table or along an island unit will have a bigger visual effect than using one alone. And if you favour an industrial style, choose light bulbs with beautifully designed filaments and finishes. For a smart, designed look, go for symmetry – paired lamps on console tables or at either end of a mantelpiece create a natural frame and lend structure to your scheme. And good quality LEDs will provide a more attractive quality of light and colour rendition - discreet, low glare fittings work best. Finally, in bedrooms, opt for reading lights on individual switches if you can, to prevent disturbing a sleeping partner.
