This post was going to be called Alternative Chandeliers, but it sounded so unbelievably wanky that I had to change it. I’m not sure that “statement lights” is that much better, but hopefully you’ll know what I’m getting at with this episode of the Weekly Window Shop; I’m talking about lighting that makes an impact. Lights that force you to look up and notice them rather than lampshades or pendants that fade into the background.
It may be the case that you’ve never given a second thought to your lighting, banishing it to the bottom of your priority list, but I have something of an obsession with it. Wall lights, accent lights, light installations, neons – I love how a light can be completely unobtrusive – almost invisible – by day, but bring a room alive at night. And, of course, the light fitting doesn’t even have to be unobtrusive by day; it can be as attention-grabbing as you want it to be. Sculptural, massive, colourful, bizarre – whatever floats your boat. I like lights that could almost serve as a piece of artwork, even unlit – I like the drama that a large light creates. I think that it’s a really quick and easy way to add some interest to a room, especially if you’re renting and can’t change the paint or wallpaper. (The fact that you can take it with you when you move is something of a bonus.) And the thing is, if you don’t have a great light hanging down into t...