Finding your way back to wonder through Lodes’ luminous landscapes

Lodes has officially launched its first outdoor lighting collection, 'Outdoor,' following its preview at Euroluce 2025. This collection marks a significant expansion for the Venetian brand, extending its established indoor aesthetic and design philosophy to exterior spaces. The collection aims to redefine the continuity between indoor and outdoor living by offering high-performance lighting solutions with a strong decorative appeal, suitable for both residential and hospitality environments. Instead of serving a purely technical function, the lighting is designed to enhance the experience of living spaces, combining well-being, visual allure, and a seamless transition between interior and exterior areas. The core principles guiding the 'Outdoor' collection include aesthetic innovation and visual comfort, evident in the shapes, details, and finishes that interact harmoniously with the environment. Advanced technology is integrated to ensure efficiency and durability, utilizing carefully selected materials and components to guarantee superior performance under various conditions. The collection emphasizes light customization, allowing for enhanced color rendering and emission control, thereby merging visual quality with design flexibility. Furthermore, sustainability is a key consideration, reflected in the modularity and detachability of the products. These features promote longevity, ease of maintenance, and responsible resource utilization, positioning each lighting fixture as a subtle yet impactful architectural element that enriches outdoor spaces with a poetic and enduring presence. The 'Outdoor' collection comprises seven distinct projects, each contributing to a unified design language while showcasing diverse sensibilities. Collaborations include designers Patrick Norguet, Snøhetta, and estudi{H}ac, alongside Lodes' in-house design team, ensuring consistency with the brand's philosophy. Each product tells a unique story about experiencing outdoor light, ranging from technical versatility and integration with nature to formal elegance, decorative impact, and direct engagement with architectural surfaces. This approach highlights how light can simultaneously fulfill functional, emotional, and architectural roles. Patrick Norguet's contributions include 'Focus,' a versatile projector inspired by photography, offering adjustable light and various installation options across different settings. 'Kinno,' a bollard with an organic, mushroom-like design, is available in plant-inspired finishes and can be mounted on walls, ceilings, or the ground, adding movement to lighting compositions. 'Chelsie' is a compact architectural light designed as a floor washer or step light, providing uniform illumination with a discreetly concealed LED source, emphasizing its decorative nature. Snøhetta studio introduces 'Volum Outdoor,' which translates the elegance of blown-glass spheres from Lodes' indoor collection to exterior spaces. These fixtures, with their unique yet similar shapes and glossy finishes, emit a soft, even light, fostering continuity between indoor and covered outdoor areas like loggias and terraces. Estudi{H}ac's 'Stitch' family of lanterns brings a decorative vision to the collection, with technical fabric ribbons woven through metal frames to create intriguing light and shadow effects, serving as a versatile furnishing element. The Lodes design team developed 'Reed' and 'Puzzle Outdoor.' 'Reed' features slender metal stems with organic diffusers, designed to blend seamlessly with vegetation, creating a natural extension of the landscape. 'Puzzle Outdoor' adapts Lodes' indoor wall lights for exterior use, producing grazing light that highlights surfaces and textures. Available in single or double versions with customizable rotation and tilt, it offers designers creative freedom to transform walls into luminous backdrops. The 'Outdoor' collection represents a pivotal moment for Lodes, expanding its design horizon and introducing new possibilities for how light shapes and interacts with both natural and built environments, ultimately blurring the boundaries between design and nature. #Lodes #OutdoorLighting #ExteriorDesign #LightingDesign #HomeDecoration #ProductLaunch #ArchitecturalLighting #SustainableDesign

The Random collection by Lodes, designed by Chia-Ying Lee, transforms lighting into an exercise of compositional freedom, offering a modular system to enhance various spaces. The concept behind this collection emphasizes light's role in shaping space, engaging with surfaces and materials, and redefining the perception of form and volume. This approach allows architects and designers to craft bespoke lighting configurations that complement furnishings, colors, and interior details. Central to the Random collection is Lodes’ "Standard Bespoke" philosophy, which involves a system of standardized elements that can be reconfigured to create original and dynamic lighting layouts. This philosophy allows for tailored compositions where the position, finish, and number of lights are integral to the design process. The collection is characterized by essential components: blown-glass spheres and ceiling canopies connected by thin metal cables, providing a flexible tool for designers in both residential and commercial settings. The evolution of the Random collection began with a collaboration with Taiwanese designer Chia-Ying Lee, initially featuring a composition of three spherical diffusers of varying sizes. This initial design has since expanded to include new expressive possibilities. Random Solo, for instance, offers single pendants or multiple compositions that form dynamic light constellations. Random Stick reinterprets the design along a horizontal axis, transforming light into an architectural element. Random Cloud groups transparent spheres to create an ethereal, floating effect, adding to the collection's versatility. The modularity of the system enables designers to combine lamps and ceiling canopies freely, resulting in custom compositions and tailored lighting solutions. This aligns with Lodes’ "Out of Scale" philosophy, which extends the bespoke approach to large-scale installations and immersive lighting solutions. These designs are intended for spaces requiring significant aesthetic and emotional impact, offering a platform for extensive personalization. Beyond aesthetics, Lodes provides continuous technical support to professionals, assisting them in optimizing performance and enhancing spaces through light. The brand is committed to developing the Random collection further, with plans to introduce an updated color palette. This expansion aims to align the collection with contemporary design languages, enriching its character while maintaining its core identity as a versatile and customizable lighting solution. #LightingDesign #LodesRandomCollection #ModularLighting #InteriorDesign #BespokeLighting #ArchitecturalLighting #HomeLighting #DesignInnovation #ChiaYingLee

The article offers a detailed look into the unique tailgating culture at Ole Miss's Grove, specifically highlighting the elaborate setups, particularly the use of chandeliers, that differentiate it from other collegiate tailgating experiences. It commences with a description of the 'Walk of Champions,' a customary starting point for fans, before delving into the spectacle of the tailgating tents. One prominent example is 'The Zebra Tent,' which is described as an eye-catching landmark, often used for giving directions within the crowded Grove. During Homecoming 2016, The Zebra Tent adopted a pink theme for Breast Cancer Awareness, raising funds for the Susan B. Komen Fund with pink Ole Miss jerseys for hostesses and a Pinterest-worthy buffet. The article emphasizes the tent's role as a meeting point, with fans noting that its absence would lead to confusion. The discussion then shifts to the general aesthetics and popular trends seen in the Grove. Female attendees are noted for parading in dresses, with various styles of boots expected to be showcased in cooler weather, illustrating a distinct fashion aspect to the tailgating. The influence of the Ole Miss Landshark Defense is observed through abundant shark-themed decor, indicating a strong connection between team performance and tailgating popularity. The continuous success of the Rebels has led to an increased demand for space, with tents occupying every available inch of the 10-acre central campus area. The prevailing color schemes include traditional Harvard Crimson and Yale Blue, complemented by new powder blue accents, appearing in everything from necklaces to suits. The article details the essential elements found in nearly every tent, such as fresh flowers, designer-look fabric tablecloths, elaborate buffets, televisions, and generators, all of which impress even seasoned tourists. However, the most distinctive feature highlighted is the presence of chandeliers, which are described as astonishing and awe-inspiring, setting Ole Miss tailgating apart. Various styles of chandeliers are presented, ranging from simple color-coordinated elegance to ornately bedazzled designs, tear-drop jewel-adorned and candle-filled pieces. One particularly unique chandelier is noted for featuring a curious conglomeration of opposing team mascots, while another is praised for its artistic display, whimsical nature, and practicality. The article concludes by affirming that these elaborate chandeliers are a true symbol of the perfected, over-the-top tailgating experience at Ole Miss, reinforcing the sentiment that 'it's better in The Grove' for newcomers and veterans alike. #OleMiss #TheGrove #TailgatingCulture #ChandelierDecor #CollegeFootball #BreastCancerAwareness #SouthernTraditions #EventDecor #CampusLife

Interior designer Madeline Stuart, known for her passion for art, architecture, preservation, and decorative arts history, recounts her journey to finding and restoring her dream 1930s Spanish Revival home in Santa Barbara. After years of searching, she acquired the weekend home in a single day, transforming it into her personal sanctuary. Stuart finds Santa Barbara to be a source of peace and exhilaration, enabling her to write her new book, "No Place Like Home." This book showcases eight diverse projects, highlighting her skill in creating unique homes tailored to her clients' lifestyles. The article follows Stuart on a Saturday shopping excursion in Santa Barbara, where she searches for vintage lighting for two ongoing projects. She explains her preference for vintage lighting, emphasizing the desire for unique, handcrafted pieces that add distinct character to an interior, unlike mass-produced items. Stuart describes herself as a natural shopper who enjoys the "thrill of the hunt" to find "l’objet juste"—the perfect item. She reveals an interesting past lighting project, a Victorian bird cage that remains in storage, and expresses her strong dislike for recessed lighting. Stuart outlines her current shopping objectives, which include sourcing items for a historic Pasadena house undergoing a renovation aimed at seamless historical integration, despite modern demands for functional kitchens. She also needs hundreds of fixtures for a project in La Jolla, anticipating a global search for suitable pieces. The article then details her visits to several shops, beginning with Santa Barbara Lights, a new discovery for her. Here, she admires a 1930s hand-wrought iron chandelier, noting its quirky, vivacious, and Art Deco-inspired charm, which requires some restoration due to missing candles. Next, she visits The Blue Door, an antique collective where she finds a 1970s Brutalist light fixture. She appreciates its unique, handmade quality and "’70s funkiness," despite her personal preference for 1920s and 1930s aesthetics. At Davis & Taft, Stuart looks for quirky lamps, explaining that they add character to a room, similar to an interesting person. She mentions a current project for a 1970s-style house, for which Brutalist pieces would be ideal. Finally, she explores Summerland Antique Collective, where she encounters Murano glass lamps from the 1930s. While she finds them suitable for a Streamline Moderne or an over-the-top Palm Springs Paul Trousdale house, she laments not having a client for them at the moment. #InteriorDesign #VintageLighting #HomeRestoration #SantaBarbara #MadelineStuart #AntiqueShopping #DecorativeArts #HomeDecor

This article explores five distinct landscape-inspired themes to transform outdoor living areas such as patios, terraces, and decks. Each theme leverages the beauty and characteristics of different natural environments, offering specific recommendations for color palettes, fabric choices, accessories, and design advice. The first theme, "Southwest Desert," draws inspiration from the red rocks and dramatic sunsets of regions like Zion National Park. The aesthetic emphasizes earthy yet vibrant colors, including terracotta, dusty greens from succulents, and pops of bright pink and orange. Sunbrella fabrics like 'Canvas in Persimmon' and 'Ascend Tropical' are suggested for furniture, alongside accessories such as ombre sunset plates, contemporary terracotta planters, a chimenea fire pit, a sage green rug, and sleek stacking chairs. The key design advice for this look is to incorporate various textures, contrasting materials like canvas with matte planters or glossy plates with rustic wood. The second theme, "Seaside Escape," captures the casual elegance of coastlines like Montauk and New England. This look features a blue palette encompassing both the inky blues of summer oceans and the stormy grays of winter seas, accented with white. Fabrics recommended include 'Direction Dew,' 'Equal Ink,' 'Ikat Cornflower,' and 'Create Haze,' which layer subtle patterns to add dimension. Accessories suggested are plush printed pillows, seashell string lights, seaglass-look tumblers, striped rugs, and wicker placemats. The article advises focusing on colors that appear comfortably worn-in and utilizing durable materials that improve with age. "Hawaiian Rainforest" is the third theme, inspired by the lush jungles of the Big Island and Kauai. This vibrant aesthetic prioritizes recreating the effect of tropical flowers, using glossy green leaves and deep purple and red blooms. Natural materials like rattan are highlighted for furniture. Sunbrella fabrics such as 'Tropics Jungle,' 'Platform Sangria,' 'Extent Sunset,' 'Create Laurel,' and 'Cast Moss' are recommended. Accessories include a rattan hanging bench, a dramatic teal pillow with a jungle cat motif, a leafy faux banana tree, macrame plant holders, and woven chairs. The design tip for this theme is to use deep greens as a base, allowing a cohesive integration of various bold colors like purples, reds, and blues. The fourth theme, "Country Gardens," evokes the poetic English gardens of time-worn stone cottages, characterized by abundant roses in pink and lavender. This traditional yet unfussy look uses a soft palette of pinks and greens, with touches of gray stone and sky. Layered patterns mimicking natural shapes and textures are central. Recommended Sunbrella fabrics include 'Sensibility Spring,' 'Reign Jungle,' 'Fretwork Flax,' 'Ethos Frond,' and 'Stem Blush.' Accessories range from an etagere for plants or cocktails to pink and green enamel tumblers, old-fashioned hurricane lamps, white and blush lounge chairs, and hand-painted beeswax candles. The advice given is to embrace numerous patterns, as the soft pastel colors prevent the combination of stripes and flowers from appearing too busy, and to incorporate flea-market finds or new pieces with a shabby-chic aesthetic. Finally, the "Icelandic Ocean" theme draws from the awe-inspiring black sand beaches and slate-colored rocks of Iceland. This aesthetic redefines "earth tones" to mean black, white, and gray, offering a glamorous option inspired by natural landscapes. Mixed textures, with matte stone contrasting crisp black and white metals, are key. Sunbrella fabrics like 'Shibori Classic,' 'Detail Classic,' 'Connection Onyx,' 'Bliss Onyx,' and 'Shore Classic' are featured. Accessories include a slate cheese board, a minimalist bench, a sculptural watering can, and a fluted matte black planter. The overarching advice for this look is to achieve drama by strictly adhering to black, white, and gray, and by pairing matte finishes with high gloss elements, such as stone serving dishes on a lacquer table. #OutdoorDesign #PatioIdeas #TerraceDecor #DeckDesign #LandscapeInspiration #SunbrellaFabrics #SouthwestStyle #SeasideDecor #TropicalTheme #EnglishGarden #IcelandicMinimalism

The 2021 NW Natural Street of Dreams tour in Happy Valley offers numerous ideas for homeowners looking to remodel or update their lighting fixtures. This year's tour showcases houses in two communities: Heritage Crest, featuring custom homes, and Pleasant Valley Villages, with new production homes by Holt Homes. Designers on the tour use a variety of lighting, including chandeliers, sconces, table and floor lamps, and recessed lights, to illuminate spaces and create specific moods. Whitney Hicks, an interior designer and project manager for Holt Homes, notes that designer-style fixtures are now widely accessible across different price points. The article provides practical lighting tips inspired by the Street of Dreams. Hicks emphasizes the importance of illuminating dark walls and corners, suggesting that lighting should be layered to provide both functional overhead light and ambient warmth. She recommends using crystal selenite lamps or flameless candles for cozy, soft illumination in less-lit areas. For rooms with screens, balancing the blue light with warm, ambient light is crucial to reduce eye strain, and installing dimmers allows for adjustable light levels. Hicks also advises considering how light fixtures interact with nearby elements. For instance, bold kitchen island pendants can work well if anchored by a large island, while a dining nook might require a smaller chandelier that still harmonizes with the kitchen's design in color and shape. The concept of mixing and matching light fixtures is encouraged to personalize a room and avoid a showroom aesthetic. Hicks views lighting as a sculptural element, suggesting that selection should be approached similarly to choosing art. She also highlights the cost-effectiveness and ease of changing light fixtures, noting that floor lamps can add height and personality to a space without a major financial commitment. The article includes a comprehensive list of upscale and affordable online retailers for various lighting types, such as pendant lights, chandeliers, wall lights, bathroom and vanity lights, portable lamps, and outdoor lighting, with many offering sales and discounts. These resources enable readers to find trending lighting options for their homes, inspired by the designs featured in the Street of Dreams tour. #StreetOfDreams #LightingDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Chandelier #FloorLamps #HomeRemodeling #HappyValley #HoltHomes #ShoppingTips

This guide provides an overview of nine prominent art galleries in LoDo (Lower Downtown Denver), offering insights into their unique collections and artistic focus, along with practical advice for integrating art into home decor. LoDo is characterized by a blend of historic charm and modern artistic expression, making it a vibrant destination for art enthusiasts. The article begins by introducing Visions West Gallery, which presents Western art through a contemporary lens. Examples include Tracy Stuckey's paintings, which reinterpret Western mythology with modern imagery, and Adonna Khare's detailed pencil drawings depicting interactions between predator and prey. This gallery emphasizes a fusion of traditional themes with innovative artistic approaches, appealing to a broad audience interested in evolving artistic narratives. Next, Mudhead Gallery is highlighted for its dedication to authentic Native American art, particularly Pueblo pottery and bronze sculptures. The gallery, which has been operational for 35 years, showcases traditional items like koshares figurines, fired clay pottery from various pueblos (Hopi, Acoma, Santa Clara), and bronze works depicting cowboys and American Indians, alongside gold and silver jewelry. This focus offers a glimpse into indigenous artistic traditions and craftsmanship. Mike Wright Gallery is presented as an accessible venue for both seasoned collectors and newcomers. It features works by artists like Laura Guese, known for her abstract, engaging cloud paintings, which are relatively affordable, making original art more attainable. The gallery's on-site wine bar is noted as a feature that helps create a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging visitors to explore and potentially invest in art. David B. Smith Gallery is recognized for curating thought-provoking exhibits, often featuring contemporary art that, while not always local or immediately accessible, is consistently fascinating. An example provided is Jeremy Dean’s “Everything That Rises,” an installation of salvaged folding chairs. The gallery is known for assembling exciting and challenging displays that push artistic boundaries. Robischon Gallery, a long-standing institution in Denver's art scene, is characterized by its focus on profound contemporary art. It hosts monthly rotating exhibits featuring works by internationally acclaimed artists from diverse backgrounds, alongside promising local talents such as Christine Buchsbaum, who uses photography to explore abstract concepts. The gallery also highlights large-scale, decorative ceramic pieces by artists like Kim Dickey, demonstrating a commitment to significant artistic endeavors. Sally Centigrade Art Gallery, which relocated from Portland, Oregon, specializes in the self-described "lowbrow" art movement. Owner Myah Bailey describes the works as "kitschy and creepy," emphasizing a playful and unconventional approach to art. The gallery frequently pairs local artists with national ones, fostering unique artistic dialogues and offering a wide range of pieces, from affordable giclée prints to original paintings, catering to various budgets and tastes. Sloane Gallery of Art has a distinct focus on Russian, Russian-American, and former Soviet Bloc artists. Since its establishment in 1981, it has showcased works by artists like Vitaly Komar and Alexander Melamid, whose pieces have been featured in institutions such as the Guggenheim Museum. The gallery provides a unique platform for art from a specific cultural and historical context. Emmanuel Gallery, located on the Auraria Campus, serves as a platform for emerging talent, exhibiting works by students, faculty, and other up-and-coming local artists from the University of Colorado Denver, Metropolitan State University, and Community College of Denver. This gallery plays a crucial role in nurturing new artists and providing them with early exposure. David Cook Galleries offers a diverse collection, with one section dedicated to 20th-century Western American art, including works by Vance Kirkland and Sven Birger Sandzén. The other section features museum-quality Native American art, such as parfleches, bead- and quill-work, and historic Navajo textiles. This gallery provides a comprehensive look at regional and indigenous artistic heritage. The article concludes with practical tips for creating an at-home art gallery, offering advice from art experts. Jim Robischon suggests choosing art that challenges one's perspective, as it fosters deeper engagement over time. Candice Pulliam, an art consultant, recommends "gallery wraps" for a clean, frameless look, especially for contemporary and large pieces. She also provides detailed guidance on optimal lighting for artwork, emphasizing the importance of light angle and distance from the wall, and preferring halogen MR16 lamps for their pure white light, offering a comprehensive guide to displaying art effectively in a home setting. #LoDoArtGalleries #DenverArtScene #ContemporaryArt #NativeAmericanArt #HomeDecor #ArtCollecting #GalleryGuide #WesternArt #ArtExhibits

Gabriel Scott has unveiled the Welles Reimagined series, a new lighting collection developed in collaboration with renowned American architect David Rockwell. This collection serves as an evolution of Gabriel Scott's popular Welles Chandelier, initially launched in 2017. The original Welles Chandelier was designed to be a modular lighting system capable of expansion without visible rods, a concept that emphasized both luxury and innovative design in contemporary lighting. The Welles Reimagined series maintains the geometric foundational principles of its predecessor while introducing a modern interpretation. The design draws inspiration from natural formations, specifically referencing the clustered arrangements found in crystals, clouds, and chemical compounds, translating these organic structures into sculptural lighting fixtures. A significant design shift in the Welles Reimagined collection involves replacing the steel elements that previously encased the bulbs with hollowed glass polygons. This alteration imbues the fixtures with a jewelry-like aesthetic, enhancing their brilliance and sophistication. These luminous glass shapes are arranged at varying heights and in diverse dimensions, contributing to the sculptural and organic feel of the collection. The glass polygons are available in five distinct finishes: Smoked, Purple, Alabaster White, Bronze, and Clear. This variety in finishes allows for extensive customization, enabling designers and homeowners to tailor the lighting to specific interior aesthetics and preferences. This transformation signifies a continuous progression of the Welles design, with a strong focus on personalization and adaptability to diverse spatial requirements. Scott Richler, the Founder and CEO of Gabriel Scott, emphasized that the Welles Chandelier, and now its reimagined counterpart, embodies the brand’s core design philosophy: to create modular products that are highly customizable. Richler highlighted the Welles Reimagined by David Rockwell capsule collection as a sculptural masterpiece, noting the brand’s excitement to expand its allure with additional glass finish options in their standard series. This expansion directly addresses client demand for choice and personalization, reinforcing Gabriel Scott's commitment to meeting diverse needs within the luxury lighting market. David Rockwell further elaborated on the collaborative effort, stating that the partnership facilitated the creation of truly exceptional pieces. He underscored the blend of Gabriel Scott’s modular lighting approach and impeccable craftsmanship with his own emphasis on narrative and materiality. Rockwell explained that through systematic experimentation with volume, color, texture, and scale, the team developed organic compositions of light. These compositions are designed to profoundly influence the ambiance and spatial perception of the environments they illuminate, offering more than just functional light but also artistic elements that shape the character of a space. The Welles Reimagined collection is comprehensive, featuring a range of fixture types including chandeliers, pendants, and sconces. This broad offering provides numerous possibilities for mixing and matching finishes and forms, allowing for a cohesive yet customizable lighting scheme throughout a space. The versatility of these customizable options ensures that the Welles Reimagined series can effortlessly enhance any setting, whether the fixtures are actively illuminated or serving as decorative, sculptural elements during daylight hours. The collection's ability to function as both a source of light and a piece of art exemplifies its innovative approach to contemporary lighting design. #WellesReimagined #GabrielScott #DavidRockwell #LightingDesign #SculpturalLighting #HomeFurnishings #LuxuryDesign #ModularLighting #InteriorDesign

Uplighting, a lighting technique pioneered in 1949 by Manhattan lighting designer Harry Gitlin, has experienced a resurgence in popularity, aligning with a broader revival of 1970s aesthetics in design. These compact, typically inexpensive fixtures, about the size of a coffee can and housing a light bulb, are placed on a flat surface, usually the floor, to cast light upwards. Their primary function is not direct task illumination but rather to create an atmospheric 'mood,' often characterized by a sophisticated, soft glow, reminiscent of a nightclub ambiance. Barbara D’Arcy, a highly influential interior designer who oversaw Bloomingdale’s Manhattan home-furnishings department from 1958 to 1973, was a notable proponent of uplights. In her 1973 book, 'Bloomingdale’s Book of Home Decorating,' D'Arcy expressed enthusiasm for rooms designed with minimal traditional lamps, relying instead on a combination of downlights and, especially, uplights to provide general illumination and set a distinct mood. This approach prioritized ambient light over direct light, contributing to a sense of allure and drama within a space. A prominent example of uplighting's effective use is seen in the Paris apartment of French interior designer François Catroux and his wife, Betty. Their living room, situated in a 17th-century mansion on Île Saint-Louis, was a celebrated black-and-white space dubbed a '1970 space capsule' by American Vogue. It featured a bold, coffered ceiling with downlights, complemented by uplights discreetly integrated within an L-shaped modular seating unit. These uplights were concealed within a planter containing large dracaenas, casting splintered shadows and enhancing the room's dramatic and 'louche' character. Despite their association with a specific era, uplights gained widespread acceptance within the design community, even among figures like Mario Buatta, known for his chintz-laden designs, and fashion designer Valentino Garavani. Designer Tom O’Toole, commenting in 1985, suggested that _Architectural Digest_ publications frequently featured interiors utilizing uplights. A review of the magazine's archives from 1970 to 1990 confirms their prevalence in diverse settings, from Larry Laslo’s sensual Manhattan living room, where uplights highlighted purple-lacquer boiserie, to Diana Phipps’s London bedroom, where they were hidden behind a pink-plaid canopy bed. While some uplights might have been introduced by photographers to enhance specific shots, many were integral to the overall design, enriching otherwise minimalist environments. Lee F. Mindel of Shelton, Mindel & Associates, an AD100 architecture firm, acknowledges the value of uplights despite finding them more commercially than residentially oriented. He notes that in neutral spaces lacking architectural embellishments, an uplight positioned to shine through a large plant, such as a palm or fiddle-leaf ficus, can introduce dynamism and make a bold architectural statement. For those seeking to introduce dramatic lighting and animate a space, contemporary options for uplights are readily available. Lexstar offers classic square canister uplights in various finishes and sizes, ranging from approximately $60, with custom options available. Pro Track provides more affordably priced cylindrical uplights, typically between $15 and $35, through online retailers like Lamps Plus and Amazon. #Uplighting #InteriorDesign #1970sRevival #ArchitecturalLighting #HomeDecor #LightingDesign #MoodLighting #FrançoisCatroux #BarbaraD'Arcy

Arteriors, in collaboration with design and architecture firm Workshop/APD, has launched a new collection of 54 lighting and decor pieces. This partnership marks Arteriors' first venture with a design and architecture firm, showcasing a distinctive minimal aesthetic that diverges from its past traditional offerings. Workshop/APD's 'crafted modern' approach is evident throughout the collection, which is designed for both residential and commercial interiors. The conceptual foundation of this collection, termed 'meaning in making,' emphasizes traditional techniques such as glazing, rolling clay, and slumping or etching glass. Andrew Kotchen, founding principal of Workshop/APD, highlights the collaborative nature of the project, which leveraged the diverse creative perspectives within his firm and the expertise of Arteriors' team and global network of craftspeople. The resulting collection aims to strip away unnecessary embellishment, focusing instead on technique, materiality, simplicity, and scale. Andrew Kline, design director and senior associate at Workshop/APD, along with product designer Ruoxi Wang, prioritized the creation of versatile pieces. This versatility allows the items to transcend various design typologies, styles, and regions. The lighting elements form the core of the collection, with each sconce and pendant designed to function effectively both as a standalone accent piece in a residential setting and in multiples or combinations within complementary styles. Matthew Berman, another founding principal of Workshop/APD, underscores the multifunctional aspect of each piece, offering designers significant flexibility to incorporate them into a wide range of projects. The collection includes various lighting fixtures such as sculptural sconces, linear chandeliers, flushmount lights, and pendants, alongside decorative items like candlesticks, trays, and mirrors. The Workshop/APD for Arteriors collection is part of Arteriors’ Spring/Summer 2021 Collection. It is available for purchase online and at Arteriors’ showrooms located in New York, Dallas, Los Angeles, and London. The collaboration aims to provide a compelling offering that combines modern design principles with handcrafted artistry. #LightingDesign #HomeDecor #ModernDesign #InteriorDesign #CollaborativeDesign #Arteriors #WorkshopAPD #HomeFurnishings #CraftedModern

Landing lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of a home's transitional spaces. Beyond merely providing illumination, thoughtful lighting design can create ambiance, highlight architectural features, and contribute to the overall style of a landing. This guide explores ten distinct approaches to landing lighting, offering insights into various fixture types, materials, and placement strategies to transform these often-overlooked areas into warm, welcoming, and stylish spaces. One effective technique is to utilize a cascade of light, particularly in stairwells, where a dramatic pendant chandelier can act as a central feature, connecting multiple floors and accentuating the property's scale. Materials like bronze and alabaster are recommended for their ability to beautifully reflect light and create a subtle glow, with staggered forms adding movement and sculptural interest. Elegant wall lights are another excellent choice for landings, serving both decorative and functional purposes. Their curved lines can complement existing architectural details, such as handrails or mirror frames, filling the space effectively and establishing vital connections between rooms. Accent lighting, especially through skirting lights or uplights, can be employed to cast intriguing patterns on the floor, provide wayfinding at night, and highlight features like window reveals and door frames, adding drama and visual interest. The selection of lighting materials offers an opportunity to introduce color and texture. Metal shades, for instance, can impart an industrial aesthetic that complements staircase railings, while cool metals suit warmer climates and warmer metals like copper or brass can add highlights in cooler environments. Grouping different-sized pendant lights of the same design at varying heights creates a unique statement, allowing for personalization through shade choices and group formations. Strategic placement of lighting is key to making a home feel more inviting. Placing lights in a way that leads the eye down a hallway creates a seamless flow. For landings with high ceilings, large glass pendant shades can be used to maximize natural light during the day while providing ample illumination at night. Alternatively, shapely colored glass shades can add a playful tint to the light, and mixing different shapes and sizes can turn them into a modern art display. Lighting should also be used to showcase artwork effectively. Directional, low-glare downlights are ideal for illuminating wall-mounted art, making narrow landings appear larger and brighter. It's important to select beam widths that are appropriate for the size of the artwork to ensure optimal display. Incorporating patterned lampshades on table lamps can introduce additional visual interest and texture, particularly in homes where color and vibrancy are celebrated. Finally, creating symmetry with floor lamps can establish a sophisticated focal point, often by flanking a console table. This arrangement can be mirrored with other furniture pieces, enhancing the sense of balance. Dimmable table lamps, wall sconces, or pendants are recommended for creating ambient evening light, while LED strips can provide an indirect glow in areas with skylights. When hanging lights on a stairwell, adequate ceiling height is crucial, typically requiring at least nine feet (2.7m) above the landing for chandeliers or pendant lights to ensure proper clearance and safety. Various options exist for illuminating landings, including ceiling lights, wall lights, tread lighting, and illuminated handrails, all contributing to both safety and aesthetic appeal. #LandingLighting #InteriorDesign #HomeIllumination #PendantLights #WallLights #StairwellLighting #AmbientLighting #AccentLighting #HomeDecor

Outdoor pathway lighting is an essential element for enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of a front or backyard. It serves not only to guide visitors but also to cast a warm glow, illuminating other areas and bathing the landscape in light during the evening. Experts like Thomas Martin of Rama Architects emphasize the importance of the journey to the door, while landscape designer Paul Moon highlights how well-lit gardens transform the evening experience. Beyond traditional recessed lighting, various creative methods can illuminate outdoor paths, including lanterns and overhead string lights. One effective technique involves uplighting trees and plants along the pathway. By positioning lights at the base of deciduous trees, a sculptural effect is created, accentuating the natural shapes of flora and fauna while subtly guiding the path. Paul Moon notes that uplighting from below generates interesting shadows and textures. Alternatively, lighting can be embedded within foliage to conceal wires and enhance the mood, considering factors like leaf type and color. Lee Turner of Turner Road Architecture suggests thinking about whether to highlight soft or sharp leaves, or vibrant or subtle colors, to achieve cohesion. Another modern approach is using recessed fixtures embedded directly into the ground. These lights are ideal for contemporary garden designs and are particularly suitable for smaller backyards, as they maximize space and illuminate dark corners, making the area feel larger. Recessed lights can be integrated into decking, paving, and along walkways, ensuring a smart and cohesive look. Proper spacing is crucial; lights should be placed no more than six inches from the path's edge to provide adequate illumination, with symmetrical placement offering a neat finish. Opting for LED recessed lights is recommended due to their energy efficiency and cooler operation, making them safer. Paul Moon explains that proper pathway lighting underscores the garden's circulation intent, allowing it to be experienced as designed, day or night. Recessed lighting on steps also adds a modern touch and improves safety. For a softer, more diffused light, string lights hung from above can be employed. This method creates an even distribution of light across the pathway, resulting in a less harsh ambiance. A backyard featuring a string light canopy, as demonstrated by Kate Anne Designs, often incorporates elements like rattan lanterns over bulbs to add visual interest and a boho feel. LightCraft is a favored brand for string and low-voltage landscape lights, according to Kate Anne. Additionally, incorporating modern designs with height can add sculpture and structure to the pathway. Bollard path lights, spaced evenly, create a striking feature that carves up the walkway, lending a classic and sophisticated appearance. While some bollard lights shine brightly upwards, designs like Marset's Ginger bollard floor lamp or Louis Poulsen's Bysted garden bollard angle light downwards to prevent harsh glare. Ken Shallcross of DNM Architecture advises against uplights due to potential glare and unattractive shadows, recommending lights mounted in walls or on bollards to direct light downward onto the path, especially in communities with night-sky ordinances. Finally, for a more temporary and whimsical solution, rustic lanterns can line pathways. This quick method adds magic to a backyard, guiding guests with ease. A mix of shapes, heights, and styles can create a playful feel, but it is important to use LED candles instead of real flames to prevent fire risks and ensure longevity in damp conditions. Lanterns provide a soft, diffused light, enhancing the ambiance for nighttime relaxation or gatherings. Susan Skornicka, who designed a space featuring lanterns, notes that they contribute to the garden's balance and harmony, offering a welcoming glow along paths. Italian brand Poltrona Frau offers pear-shaped Sparkler Lanterns with touch-on/off functionality and durable powder-coated aluminum construction. #OutdoorLighting #PathwayLighting #LandscapeDesign #GardenIdeas #RecessedLighting #StringLights #BollardLights #Lanterns #ModernGarden

The Dune Collection is a series of distinctive and refined lighting fixtures that draw inspiration from the striking formations found in desert landscapes. Rollo Bryant's design philosophy underpins this collection, emphasizing the integration of traditional craftsmanship with digital era advancements, particularly in materials and lighting technology. Each lamp is intricately manufactured using advanced 3D printing technology and incorporates meticulously selected quartz sand, which contributes to both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design. The choice of quartz sand enables remarkable precision in the lamps' construction and results in a smooth external texture that visually echoes organic desert formations. A key characteristic of the Dune Collection is the unique luminous output generated by the sand element. As light passes through the sandy material, it diffuses to create an atmospheric crimson radiance. This effect is specifically designed to evoke the soft, subdued glow of twilight in a desert environment, adding a distinct ambiance to any contemporary interior. The lamps are conceived to serve a dual purpose: they function as practical lighting solutions while also acting as decorative elements that enhance the visual appeal of modern living spaces. The small design studio behind the Dune Collection demonstrates a strong commitment to innovative design and an unwavering focus on intricate details. Every component within the collection reflects the studio's dedication to pushing the boundaries of lighting design. The organic composition and graceful designs of these lamps make them a suitable addition to contemporary settings, symbolizing the delicate beauty found in natural landscapes within modern society. Future expansions of the continuous collection are planned to include a variety of lighting solutions, such as wall-mounted and hanging lamps, offering a diverse range of options for consumers. Despite their seemingly fragile appearance, the artifacts boast remarkable durability, primarily due to their composition of 98% Bavarian quartz sand. Following the 3D printing process, a natural resin binder is applied to enhance the material's structural integrity. This binder is chosen specifically to maintain the original color and texture of the sand, preserving the intended aesthetic. The development and physical realization of these sculptures, despite employing cutting-edge production technologies, presented several challenges. Until recently, achieving such intricate geometries on a large scale using aggregate materials was considered extremely difficult. However, the studio has overcome these hurdles, demonstrating the potential of advanced manufacturing techniques. Beyond aesthetics and innovation, the studio prioritizes environmental sustainability in its production processes. The design philosophy incorporates a strong regard for generating a positive environmental impact, which is achieved through the utilization of sustainable resources and production methods. The adoption of 3D printing technology for fabricating these lighting fixtures plays a crucial role in this commitment. This technology allows for optimized material usage, thereby reducing waste and minimizing the overall environmental footprint. Any surplus materials from the printing process are recycled, further contributing to sustainable practices. Additionally, 3D printing enables a heightened degree of accuracy and complexity that would be unattainable through conventional manufacturing techniques. The studio also takes pride in using sand, a readily available and sustainable resource, in the creation of the Dune Collection. By leveraging the inherent aesthetic appeal of natural sand formations, the studio aims to produce visually captivating lighting installations that honor the planet and the distinctive splendor of the natural world. #3DPrintedLightingFixtures #3DPrinting #DesertLandscapes #DuneCollection #RolloBryant #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign #ArchitecturalLighting

Effective landscape lighting can dramatically enhance a garden's aesthetic appeal, transforming an outdoor area into a functional and inviting space, especially during darker seasons or evenings. The key to successful landscape lighting is not to over-illuminate, but rather to strategically place lights to highlight specific features and create a desired ambiance. This approach turns a garden into an extension of the living space, making it enjoyable even when viewed from indoors. The article emphasizes that the primary goal of landscape lighting is to create a subtly dazzling effect rather than uniform brightness. Designers suggest a "less-is-more" philosophy, recommending minimal lighting to achieve a sophisticated look. For instance, illuminating pathways and steps is crucial for safety and guidance. This can be achieved by integrating lights into retaining walls or planting, ensuring that only treads are lit to prevent trips. Gentle washes of light along paths, using border lights or recessed paving lights, contribute to a pleasant journey through the garden. When it comes to trees and plants, uplighting is a powerful technique. For deciduous trees with open structures, uplighting from the base creates a sculptural effect. For larger trees, lights can be placed within the branches, angled downwards to produce a dappled light effect on surfaces like patios or lawns. Mini floodlights with diffused lenses are recommended for a soft, broad glow. Furthermore, playing with shadows by shining lights through flowers and grasses onto walls or fences can add depth and artistic flair to the landscape. The choice of light temperature is another critical factor. Garden designers typically advise against using colored lights, as they can detract from the natural hues of the garden, although they can be sparingly used in water features. The recommendation is to use "warm white" lighting for all fittings, which provides a softer and more inviting glow compared to neutral white. Consistency in lighting brands and companies across the garden is also important to ensure a cohesive look and prevent mismatched light outputs. Overall, the expert advice centers on thoughtful placement, appropriate light intensity, and the right light temperature to create an enchanting outdoor environment. By focusing on illuminating key features, guiding movement, and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere, landscape lighting can significantly elevate the overall design and usability of a garden, making it a captivating space day and night. #LandscapeLighting #GardenDesign #OutdoorLighting #ModernGarden #PathwayLighting #TreeLighting #LightTemperature #GardenAmbiance

This article explores contemporary trends and considerations in home lighting, emphasizing how fixtures can serve both functional and aesthetic purposes within a living space. It highlights the growing popularity of LED pendants, particularly those with black finishes and integrated LED technology, for their elegant contribution to areas such as kitchen islands. The article also discusses the increasing scale of chandeliers, which now act as dramatic focal points, especially when positioned above dining tables, due to their substantial size and multiple light sources. Wall sconces are presented as a versatile lighting solution, capable of enhancing various rooms, including bathrooms, entries, and bedrooms. They are noted for their ability to add both form and function, often installed in pairs to provide balanced illumination and visual interest. The piece further delves into the decorative potential of lighting, showcasing a 3-tier chandelier with a polished nickel finish and mid-century modern shapes, designed to introduce shimmer and shine to living spaces. Playful table lamps are also featured, underscoring their capacity to add an unexpected touch to any room they occupy. A significant trend highlighted is the incorporation of natural materials into light fixtures, such as black jute pendants that create a statement above dining tables. The article showcases how these natural elements contribute to a distinct aesthetic. Sculptural lighting is also a key theme, exemplified by a Visual Comfort Strada Ring Chandelier that lends an artistic effect to a room. Accent lamps, like the Visual Comfort Penelope Table Lamp by Alexa Hampton, are discussed for their dual role in adding color and functionality, particularly on nightstands. The article also touches on modern flush mount fixtures, noting how designs with intersecting rings and celestial shapes can accentuate ceilings and illuminate rooms effectively. Lanterns, specifically Visual Comfort lanterns by Chapman & Myers, are shown to complement colorful home designs. Unique table lamps, such as a pebbled aquamarine lamp by Aerin, are presented as brighteners for any environment, offering a subtle nautical feel. The strategic placement of pendant pairs above dining tables is also examined, highlighting how black details and geometric patterns can imbue decorative fixtures with personality. Tiered chandeliers are recommended for vaulted ceilings, where their volume makes them a prominent focal point. Finally, the article emphasizes the soothing effect of soft contemporary lighting in neutral colors, which contributes to a tranquil atmosphere within a room. Overall, the article serves as a guide to various lighting options available for home decoration, focusing on how different styles, materials, and scales of fixtures can enhance the ambiance, functionality, and visual appeal of diverse interior spaces. It provides examples of specific products and design approaches that align with current trends in home lighting. #HomeLighting #InteriorDesignTrends #Chandeliers #PendantLights #WallSconces #DecorativeLighting #NaturalMaterials #ModernFixtures #AccentLamps