Lighting Trends to Watch for in 2023

Just as popular fashion trends change year to year, interior architectural styles are always evolving as designers and developers look for fresh ideas to beautify spaces and wow their clients. Since lighting is a huge part of interior design, we're also seeing some creative new developments in how commercial and residential spaces are being illuminated--along with a return to some older trends that are making a comeback. Here are a few key lighting trends we're tracking for 2023.

Statement Lighting

For years, minimalism and hidden or recessed lighting have been leading the way in design style. We're not seeing the pendulum shift back toward dramatic lighting fixtures--lighting that makes a statement. From oversized ceiling-mounted pendants to "bubble chandeliers" (and more chandeliers, in general) to the use of unusual shapes and colors, overhead lighting is drawing attention to itself in fresh new ways, and creating a greater sense of interest in the spaces these lights illuminate. Watch for this trend to gather momentum in the upcoming year.

Natural Materials

In keeping with an overall architectural trend to bring the outdoors indoors, we're seeing an increased demand for light fixtures made from nature-inspired materials such as wood, stone, bamboo, jute, etc. These fixtures add warmth and texture to a room, creating an inviting ambiance that appeals to clients looking for a more organic feel.

The Return of the Lamp (and Pleats!)

 Believe it or not, traditional lamps are making a comeback--along with pleated and ruffled lampshades, and just a wider use of lamps in general to illuminate rooms. This is especially true for residential spaces, where lamps can be used to create a cozy atmosphere that's perfect for relaxing or entertaining--but even office and retail spaces are getting in on the action.

Layered Lighting Schemes

Lighting schemes that use multiple sources are becoming increasingly popular, such as mixing overhead lighting with lamps and wall sconces. The three-layered approach (ambient light, focus lights, and task lighting) tends to evoke a sense of comfort, elegance, and luxury, but more creative designers might incorporate as many as four or five lighting layers in a room. With layered lighting, you can tailor the mood of a space to suit different activities or enhance certain design elements--and it helps make spaces feel bigger and brighter, too.

Smart Technology and Automation

Just as important as the style of the lights themselves is the way these lights are being controlled. With the recent surge in demand for smart home technology, it's no surprise that lighting options are also becoming increasingly automated. With a few clicks of a button on your smartphone app or voice-activated commands, you can quickly and easily adjust lights to suit any activity or mood--and dimmers and occupancy sensors help ensure energy efficiency. More advanced programmable controls can be combined with LED lighting systems to set lighting "scenes" within a room based on its use, such as emulating natural daylight for activities or study, or creating a dimmed romantic vibe for date nights.

At illuminico, we are committed to keeping up with the latest lighting trends to make sure our clients are supplied with all the lighting and fixtures they need to build out incredible spaces in their construction and development projects. From the traditional to the eclectic, we can source virtually any type of lighting solution imaginable. To learn more about our selection and our process, contact us here.