As the evenings get darker and we begin to spend more time indoors, lighting becomes an increasingly important part of how our homes look and feel. This autumn, the focus is on using lighting more intentionally, with layered illumination, decorative lamps and statement shades all helping to shape the overall interior scheme.
If your interiors are in need of an autumn glow-up, these are the lighting trends worth knowing about.
1. Layered lighting
The days of relying on one central ceiling light to illuminate an entire room are firmly behind us. Instead, layered lighting is continuing to shape interiors, with ceiling lights, wall lights, floor lamps, and table lamps being used together to create depth.
‘My top tip for the cooler months is to layer your lighting to create the perfect, cosy atmosphere in your home,’ says Lena Gierasinska, head of product and displays at Barker and Stonehouse. ‘This impacts not only the look and feel of our homes but also our wellbeing.’
The key is to create several different pools of light throughout a room, rather than having one uniform source. Use a pendant for general illumination, a floor lamp to brighten a darker corner and table lamps to create softer, more targeted areas of light.
2. Statement lamp bases
This season, lamps are being treated as much more than a practical necessity, with colourful bases and characterful finishes all set to step into the spotlight.
‘Be sure to consider the design when choosing your lamp as it should complement the decor of the room,’ says Shelley Cochrane, accessories buyer at Furniture Village.
Choose a shade that picks up on a colour elsewhere in the room, or go for a contrasting tone to make the light a focal point. A colourful base can add a welcome pop of colour to an otherwise neutral room, while an antique-inspired lamp can bring a touch of vintage charm.
Cleo Curved Ceramic Table Lamp Base
3. Fringed lampshades
Speaking of nostalgia – one of the biggest lighting trends making a comeback for autumn is fringing. Tasselled and fringed lampshades are wonderful for bringing a sense of movement and old-fashioned glamour.
‘In lighting design, especially, fringe works beautifully to softly filter light in a gentle, ambient way,’ explains Georgia Metcalfe, founder and creative director of French Bedroom. ‘It also casts delicate shadows, making it perfect for the bedroom, where the mood matters most.’
For example, a fringed lampshade can be an easy way to make a bedside table or reading corner feel instantly more inviting.
Enzo Suede Tassel Fringe Ceiling Shade - Burnt Terracotta
4. Colour and pattern
Looking for an easy yet dramatic way to embrace autumn? Switching up your lampshade – either on a table lamp or pendant light – is a simple solution. Colourful and patterned shades are replacing plain designs, giving the opportunity to experiment with bolder interiors without committing to a major change.
‘Much like a cushion, or even paint, swapping out lampshades is a fun and affordable way to change the look and feel of a space,’ says Lena.
From nature-inspired prints to autumnal jewel tones in amber and burgundy, a statement shade can bring the colours of the season into an otherwise neutral room.
5. Natural materials
Chakai Mango Wood Wall Lamp - Natural & Antique Brass
Woven rattan, bamboo, linen, paper and warm wood are all versatile materials for bringing an autumnal feel to interiors.
‘This is all about embracing organic materials and bringing a sense of the outdoors into the home,’ says Georgia.
Wooden lighting is particularly effective, adding texture and complementing other natural finishes used throughout a room. ‘Not just reserved for furniture, wood is a fantastic choice for lighting, bringing an organic warmth and tactility to interiors,’ adds Shelley.
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The Lighting Edit
