Lighting Trends

Upgrading your lighting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to modernize your homes. “After years of being inundated with very goopy, drippy, fancy, over-adorned resin product that the lighting industry has been pushing, the buyers have made it very clear that they want natural materials and simpler looks” states Todd Langner, president of Kenroy-Hunter Lighting Group. Dave McKee, COO of Seattle Lighting agrees “There’s been a general swing toward simplicity and natural products.” The trend for chandelier shades adorned with crystal or beads “is pretty much gone” stated Langner. McKee notes that 60s style drum shades are “hot”. In reference to the drum shades he says, “They’re looking for variety, different treatments, and different fabrics.” For example, Joe Rey-Barreau, educational consultant for the American Lighting Association and professor of interior design at the University of Kentucky, says that “lampshades made out of paper have become very popular. It gives light a wonderful texture.”