Using Feature Lights: Making Your Lighting Stand Out

This blog post was updated in December 2022.

Interior design is can be one of most enjoyable things about building or renovating. Choosing colours, styling rooms and creating a space that is nice to be in is an exciting experience, however people can get stuck in traditional trends and lean towards 'safe styles' such as bright feature walls and neutral colour palettes. Why not think outside of the box by choosing some unique lighting and creating a bold feature in your room? To help you get started we've put together some useful hints and tips:  

Choose a Statement Piece

One of the best ways to make your lights stand out is to choose a statement piece. This might be a chandelier with an unexpected design, a floor lamp with an interesting base, or a pendant light in a vibrant colour. By choosing a light fixture that is bold and unique, you can create a focal point in your room and add some personality to your space.

Use Colour Creatively

Another way to make your lights stand out is to use colour. This might involve choosing fixtures in bold, vibrant colours, or using coloured bulbs to create a certain mood or atmosphere. For example, you might use red bulbs to create a romantic vibe, or blue bulbs to create a cool, calming effect. By using colour, you can add some interest and depth to your lighting.

Play with Shapes

Using different shapes is another important aspect of feature lighting. By choosing fixtures with interesting shapes or designs, you can add some visual interest to your space. This might involve choosing fixtures that mimic natural elements, such as branches or leaves, or fixtures that have geometric shapes or patterns. You can also try bamboo pendant lights or coastal pendant lights. By playing with shape, you can create a lighting scheme that is both functional and visually striking.

Use Dimmer Switches

Dimmer switches are a great way to make your lights stand out. By giving yourself control over the brightness of your lights, you can create different lighting levels for different situations. For example, you might want bright, focused lighting for tasks like cooking or reading, but softer, more ambient lighting for relaxing or entertaining. With a dimmer switch, you can easily adjust your lighting to suit your needs and mood.

Think about Aesthetics versus Practicality

Lighting is, first and foremost, a product of function. It is used to illuminate spaces at night or when there is little natural light. When using lighting as a feature, it is important to consider how much light the piece gives and whether it will be used in conjunction with brighter, more practical lights or if it will be a standalone piece. Some rooms are more suited to muted light and these may work better with an individual piece. Find a balance between aesthetics and practicality when choosing your feature light.

Create Balance

A feature light is supposed to draw the eye and add interest to a space. Just like a feature wall, a feature light should shine out from the design of a room. Pair it with either similar colours in muted hues or neutral tones to let the light's design and colour stand out from the rest.

Overall, feature lights are a great way to add interest and drama to a room. By choosing statement pieces, using colour, playing with shape, and using dimmer switches, you can create a lighting scheme that is both functional and stylish. With the right lighting, your space can be both beautiful and practical.

If you are in the process of designing a space or want to breathe fresh life into a room, why not consider a feature light?  To get started, take a look at our range of light fittings online to get some inspiration and ideas for your home!