47 Driveway ideas

Our favourite driveway ideas for the most durable and stylish driveways

47 Driveway ideas

Driveways are such a noticeable hardscaping feature of your home. They are the first thing people encounter, so curb appeal is always going to be a big factor. Aesthetically, your driveway needs to fit your home’s architectural style. It also needs to create a sense of unity between your home and the landscape surrounding it. There’s such a wide variety of different materials to choose from including gravel, concrete, pavers, brick and grass. It can be hard to know which materials to choose to achieve a certain look and that’s why we’ve put together this blog about driveway ideas.

Beyond the look, what else needs to get factored into your choice of driveway material? You’ll be considering durability, depending on how much traffic your driveway will handle. The material needs to be strong, give traction, be non-slip when wet, and be kind to stains and marks caused by everyday use.

Each material has its own maintenance needs and costs. Some need more frequent and complicated maintenance than others. When calculating the cost of your materials, factor in the labour needed to install it. But also remember to add in ongoing maintenance costs over the driveway’s anticipated lifetime. Don’t forget, a gorgeous driveway usually increases your home’s resale value, as well as allowing you to enjoy it in the meantime.

driveway-ideas-paving
Source: Photo by Julia Kuzenkov from Pexels

Now, let’s take a look at what’s been trending in driveway ideas and designs.

Pavers, bricks and stone driveway ideas

Pavers are a common driveway material. They come in a range of styles including concrete blocks, clay bricks, cobblestones or permeable pavers. Here are a few styles you might consider. For those keen on DIY, make sure you check out our guide to laying pavers. When you’re ready to hire a professional, find one here.

1. Chevron and herringbone

Block pavers laid in a chevron or herringbone pattern have a classic charm about them. That’s the great thing about paving your driveway, you have so many options in terms of colours, patterns and designs. However, note that having patterns laid will add to your costs of installation. Other than that, block paving is both durable and easy to maintain.

2. Plain pavers

Traditional clay brick pavers have been around for centuries. Brick pavers are set in a sand or mortar base and can come in a variety of colours and shapes. Pavers can be an eco-friendly choice, when they enable good drainage. They’re also low maintenance and can be easily repaired. And visually, a simple paved driveway displays rich texture and pattern.

3. Light coloured pavers

When you’re going for clean, pared down and light filled, it makes sense to choose a light-coloured paving stone.

driveway-ideas-large-paversdriveway-ideas-large-pavers
Source: Photo by Thiago Calamita from Pexels

4. Warm coloured pavers

A warm, pale-coloured paving stone is a lovely soft look against the façade of a modern home. Choosing a paving stone in a sandy tone gives a nice beachy flavour, perfect for a coastal aesthetic.

5. Grey pavers

When the focus is on the home’s façade, the driveway can take a bit of a back seat. A contemporary home clad in weathered timber has the perfect complement in tonally varied grey driveway pavers.

6. Brick herringbone

For a more traditional style home, classic brick pavers are a good option. Brick pavers are made of fired clay, which weathers over time and creates a patina like in the driveway below. Brick paved driveways will need to be regularly sealed and you can also pressure clean them yourself to vastly improve the look.

7. Crazy pavers

Crazy pavers or flagstones are increasingly popular. They offer the benefits of traditional hard driveway materials. Yet they are eco-friendly and provide a unique, visually dynamic aesthetic.

‘Raw yet alive’ is an apt description of the effect you get with flagstones, aka crazy paving. Organic shapes, earthy tones, colour and texture, all contribute to this natural-looking aesthetic.

8. Rustic pavers

Natural stone crazy pavers for the driveway are perfect to enhance the connection to the great outdoors. Stone pavers are ideal for blending seamlessly with the landscape. The result is a naturalistic, grounded effect. And the freeform shapes can provide a lively contrast to linear-heavy modern house designs.

9. Antique reclaimed cobblestone pavers

For a traditional drive with oodles of charm, you really can’t beat historic stone pavers. Reclaimed antique pavers from European and American cities can be used to enhance the look of your driveway, though the cost can be quite high. They’re highly durable (basically indestructible), low maintenance pavers. And they have a gorgeous visual effect, so they’re something to consider.

10. Contemporary cobblestone

Even though cobblestone usually has an olde-worlde flavour to it, it also works really well with contemporary homes. It’s a lovely way to add pattern and texture, and looks great contrasted with a plain façade.

driveway-ideas-dark-stones
Source: Photo by Frans Strous on Unsplash

11. Quarried granite blocks

Who doesn’t love the textures and tones of stone? As a paving material, it blends into the surrounding landscape and looks timeless.

Green driveway ideas

Love the look of natural grass but don’t love the idea of driving into a muddy mucky mess? Then permeable grass pavers might be the solution. These are eco-friendly surface materials that allow water to drain well while enabling grass to also grow in between. Permeable pavers can be laid in any number of patterns. The ability to make personalised patterns is something that appeals to many when it comes to paver tiles. If you don’t want an overly linear look, consider circular pavers for a bit of whimsy.

driveway-ideas-permeable-pavers
Source: Photo by toinane on Unsplash

12. Grass grid

Like the look of grass growing on your driveway? An alternative option to permeable pavers is to simply allow grass to grow up in a grid between paver tiles. Gridded grass driveways are a popular contemporary look.

13. Median strips

Ribbon driveways are a classic look. But more importantly if you want to reduce storm water runoff then having a median nature strip will greatly improve drainage. A mix of hardscaping and green grass is ideal for the eco-friendly home owner.

14. Integrated garden beds

Integrated garden beds are another way to add zest to a driveway. The median strip of your ribbon driveway is ideal for planting a long, narrow garden bed of low-growing plants. Succulents are a fantastic choice as they are low maintenance and won’t require watering.

15. Bush timber driveway

Less common is the choice of timber as an eco-friendly option. But some people just love the aesthetic, the texture and colour. They are also cost-effective, strong, offer good drainage and have zero maintenance needs. Simply embed new or recycled sleepers in soil, mulch or concrete, adding some gravel for a casual look.

Concrete driveway ideas

This is another versatile, low cost, durable and low maintenance driveway material. It costs less than stone pavers so is often an attractive option. Poured concrete driveways can look highly contemporary. And the material is suitable for sloping sites, which some materials aren’t. You can also get decorative effects through staining and stamping, or by forming custom pavers.

Find an expert in driveway concreting

driveway-ideas-white-paved
Source: Photo by Hugo Sousa on Unsplash

16. Concrete and timber

Timber and concrete are a match made in heaven, so if you have a timber-heavy home then the sleekness of concrete may appeal. A soft-looking timber façade can use concrete as a cool base to offset the wood’s warmth.

17. Smooth concrete

The smoothness of concrete is a major drawcard, especially if you also have children. A simple, broad expanse of poured concrete is always practical for playing sport or riding bikes.

18. Perfect for farmhouse

Concrete is so versatile and goes with so many different architectural styles. A simple, pared back concrete driveway doesn’t compete with the busyness of a farmhouse façade. Think shiplap, carriage doors and industrial pendant lights. (If you love the look of these farmhouse garage doors, make sure you also check out our blog on garage door ideas.)

19. Large format concrete paving

A poured concrete tile effect looks stunning for a contemporary home. Particularly with a little crushed gravel trim between the pavers. Garden beds either side of the driveway are always appealing and a chance to up your curb appeal even more.

driveway-ideas-light-contemporary-pavers
Source: Photo by Curtis Adams from Pexels

20. Concrete and tints

Concrete can be tinted with chemical stains and concrete dyes so you have plenty of options for finding a colour to complement your home’s exterior and aesthetic. To create a dark grey concrete effect, for example, you can add black oxide to the concrete mix. Concrete aggregate (see below) in darker tones really suits a monochromatic home exterior.

21. Painted faux slate

A clever DIY is to paint a concrete driveway to look like slate. The trick is to use outdoor concrete paints. I’m not sure how long the effect would last though. But it’s worth speaking to a concreter who can tell you what kind of effects are possible.

22. Stamped concrete

A quick way to ‘pave’ your driveway is to go with stamped concrete instead of pavers. This is a cost-effective and easy way to get the appearance of pavers if you like a traditional, textured driveway look.

23. Asphalt driveway

Asphalt is kind of the poor cousin of concrete, because it’s cheaper and less durable. This means it’s considered less of a premium material. But it’s still a great choice for contemporary driveways and offers the ability to DIY repair worn areas. And it looks neat and orderly.

Concrete aggregate

If you love the rugged stone look but don’t like the idea of loose gravel, consider a concrete aggregate. Aggregate gets its finish by having the top layer of concrete removed. This slightly reveals the stones or other conglomerate materials. Exposed concrete aggregate driveways are increasingly popular. They offer a lot of design flexibility due to the varying range of colours and textures than can be obtained to suit your property.

driveway-ideas-monochrome-gravel
Source: Photo by Kyle Mackie on Unsplash

24. Exposed aggregate concrete

Exposed aggregate goes with so many different styles of home. It particularly suits contemporary homes though. It provides that added bit of texture to generate visual interest while looking sleek and streamlined.

25. Family-friendly

Exposed aggregate is a great choice for a family home. It’s skid resistant as well as being a durable finish for heavy traffic areas so it’s perfect for driveways that double as outdoor living areas.

26. Mixed materials

When you can’t decide on a single driveway material…why not use a variety? Consider incorporating several materials. For example, a mix of grass, squares of poured concrete, strips of basalt stone, and geometric permeable pavers. The result is a dynamic space that’s a breeze to drive in and out of.

Gravel driveway ideas

It’s loved for its low price, its eco-friendliness due to its permeability, and its appeal to all the senses. Gravel is an ever popular choice of driveway hardscaping material. Often it is combined with a cellular grid to keep the stones in place. And adding driveway edging is always a good idea to contain a gravel driveway. Little maintenance is required, but the gravel needs to be topped up from time to time.

27. White gravel

White gravel makes for a classic gravel driveway look. It’s a low cost material that creates a luxe, vintage-style look.

28. Colours and textures

One of the things people love about gravel is that you can choose from a range of colours and grades of the stones. Finding one which complements your home is easy! Choosing a warmer-toned gravel with plenty of red in it will give lots of summery, Mediterranean feels.

29. Stabilised gravel

While you may love the look of loose gravel, it can undoubtedly become a pain when it spreads and scatters. An alternative is to go for crushed granite that has had a stabiliser added so it’s more solid. The surface remains charmingly rustic, though.

30. Traditional ribbon gravel drive

It’s when you have a loooong driveway to surface that gravel makes a lot of sense due to its low cost. It can therefore be more popular in rural areas ,like a lengthy gravelled ribbon driveway.

driveway-ideas-long-gravel-drive
Source: Photo by karl muscat on Unsplash

31. Tar and chip

Multicoloured gravel chips laid in tar, the so called “tar and chip” method, is another durable and relatively low cost option. It’s maintenance free, compared to gravel driveways, and has great traction. Plus, it can look truly stunning.

32. Resin bound gravel

A popular alternative to loose gravel is resin-bound gravel. This mimics the appearance of gravel but the stones are bound to a film of resin, leaving a rough dry aggregate surface. Different colours and textures are available and it can be permeable to assist drainage.

33. Gravel with asphalt

If you have a resin-bound gravel driveway, you might add a section of asphalt to define your parking area. An alternative to resin-bound gravel is self-binding gravel. This doesn’t have the same cohesive properties as resin. But it’s an affordable low maintenance option for residential driveways too.

34. Coastal crushed shell

A material that mimics gravel well is crushed shell. Shell driveways can be eco-friendly if obtained from a sustainable harvesting company. They give great drainage and act as mulch when they decompose. They—obviously–particularly suit a coastal vibe.

Driveway edging ideas

Having a well-thought out border is a great way to give your driveway definition and character, softening the driveway’s hard edges. Not only does it make your driveway stand out but things like curbs, setts and stones along the edge will provide drainage opportunities too. (Find loads more garden edging ideas here.)

35. Gravel edged with pavers

Blocks and pavers are a traditional edging material. They give neatness and structure to driveways, especially those with loose stones or chips.

36. Stacked stone edging

Another option is stacked stone edging. This particularly suits a rustic or native garden. Stacked stone is great if your drive is on a slope as it will act as a little retaining wall.

37. Corten steel edging

For a subtle metal edge, try Corten steel edging. The popular industrial-look garden hardscaping material keeps your borders exceptionally tidy.

38. Rock borders

For an edging material that looks completely naturalistic, rocks make great borders. They fit perfectly into their landscape setting and look lovely.

Driveway gate ideas

When it comes to driveway gate ideas, there’s a massive amount of choice on the market in terms of colours, styles and materials. While they have the job of providing additional security and privacy to your home, they also offer you the chance to set the tone for your home’s style. Your choice of gate can add a really finishing touch to your overall aesthetic and add loads of curb appeal. Here are just a couple of examples for inspo. It might also be helpful to view our blog on front fence ideas.

39. Consider functionality

What kind of driveway gate function do you need? A mechanical or motorised gate? If opting for automatic gates, make sure you consider solar power to save running costs. Would you prefer a swing gate or a sliding one? Swing gates need a wider than usual driveway gate, made of materials that won’t sag.

40. Contemporary timber gates

Timber is so versatile—you can create a traditional look or something highly modern. Always go for a quality exterior-grade timber that is appropriately treated. (Need a hand with timber gate installation?)

41. Metal gates

Choosing a gate made from metal usually means a choice between durable aluminium, classic wrought iron or strong, contemporary steel. An older home might well suit wrought iron while aluminium and steel tend to look more modern. Powder coating means you can also choose from a huge range of colours to suit your home’s look.

Driveway lighting ideas

Think about your lighting choices early on, when selecting your other materials. Do you prefer subtle uplighters, or modern drive-over lights? Either way, lights with motion sensors that spring to life when you drive past are typically more energy-efficient. Here are just a couple of ideas. For more, see also our blog on landscape lighting.

42. Stripe lights

Simple, solid edging uplighters provide stripes of light along a driveway. The tiny little bollards act like an edging material to define the driveway as well as light the way.

43. Small round lights

If you love a minimal look, then tiny, unobtrusive edging lights are the way to go. They provide just enough light to lead the way, but remain subtle and understated. These kinds of lights are a popular contemporary choice. Especially if you prefer not to have bollard style lighting sticking out into the visual plane.

44. Double-ended lights

Adding the safety of lighting to your driveway also greatly enhances its curb appeal. There are so many different types of driveway lights out there and it really boils down to a matter of personal taste. Double-ended lights set into the middle of the driveway provide plenty of illumination for the entire width of your drive.

45. Embedded edging lights

Embedded edging lights are another option for guiding the way. These are aluminium LED lights featuring anti-glare and waterproof design, operated by light sensors to come on when the sun sets.

46. Illuminated pavers

You can also get illuminated pavers that are completely embedded into the driveway. Powered by LEDs and solar chargeable, they are a low cost method of lighting your driveway. And because they’re flush to the driveway surface, they don’t intrude visually when not in use.

47. Heated driveway ideas

Finally, if winters where you live mean shovelling snow from the drive, then a heated driveway would be the ultimate in convenience. Driveway heating systems comprise either heated driveway mats or cables embedded into hardscaping—concrete, asphalt or the mortar under pavers. Prices can be surprisingly affordable.

And that’s a wrap of my pick of driveway ideas to consider whether you’re upgrading your driveway or building new. Which ideas appeal to you the most? Let me know in the comments! Want more outdoor inspo? Make sure you also check out our blog on backyard ideas.

driveway-ideas-multicoloured
Source: Photo by Ferran Fusalba Roselló on Unsplash

Get some help with your driveway ideas

Driveway building and maintenance are jobs best left to the professionals and you can find them all right here. You can find experts to build your new driveway, including any necessary levelling, land clearing or soil/sand delivery. Perhaps you need help sealing or resealing your driveway, or other specialised driveway repairs. Or maybe you just want your old driveway to look sparkling new again?

25+ Heavenly hallway lighting ideas

It's time to breathe new life into every area of your home (yes, hallways can be beautiful too!)

25+ Heavenly hallway lighting ideas

Let’s face it, hallways certainly be a very dark and dingy place between rooms. But the reality is that they are often spaces that are walked through quite often in a home, so why not go back to the drawing board by adding some lighting into your space to celebrate the hallway.

For long stretches of the hall, multiple lights such as smaller lighting pendants or ceiling lights work so well. Or, if you’re working with a smaller area, a single chandelier or feature lamp will certainly work to illuminate the space! There really are so many different ways you can light up a hallway. The sky is really the limit (or should I say ‘the ceilings the limit’) when it comes to what you can achieve with innovative lighting.

elaborate hallway lighting
Source: Photo by Luke van Zyl on Unsplash

So without further ado, here are 27 hallway lighting ideas to inspire you in bringing light to your forgotten hallway spaces!

1. Bright and airy

How stunning is this bright and airy hallway! If you have lots of natural light beaming into your hallway, then your lighting is halfway there! All you’ll need to do is add some subtle lighting to help light up the hallway when the day turns into night.

2. Rattan pendants

All things rattan are definitely so in fashion at the moment and will immediately lift a boring space! Your hallway will look amazing at night with beams of light peeking out through the woven textures of the rattan and onto the ceiling and walls. Wooden frames in the hallway will be the perfect choice to match with your rattan pendants.

3. Vintage style pendant

I love the muted green of this vintage-style pendant light over this white space. What a beautiful vintage style hallway! Oversized pendants like this are a great way to introduce a pop of colour into a neutral space, and they come in just about every colour under the sun.

hallway lighting with coloured pendant
Source: Photo by Anastasia Eremina on Unsplash

4. Industrial lighting

Ah, I just love this vast hallway! How lovely are the exposed wooden beams placed along with the ceiling of the hallway. And I love the industrial style pendants on the ceiling, with their black black finish oozing class and sophistication!

modern hallway with industrial lights
Source: Nastuh Abootalebi on Unsplash

5. Brushed copper

For a beautiful modern look, consider a brushed copper pendant light which will emit a subtle glow of warmth.

6. Geometric jewel pendant

This hallway is complete with the beautiful lighting executions throughout the ceiling space. I love the geometric pendant that looks like a jewel. These kinds of lights also create lovely patterns on the ceiling and walls! Plus you can never go wrong with some simple downlights as well, which help to give light to the whole hallway.

Moroccan jewel lights in orange hallway
Source: Orlova Maria on Unsplash

7. Architectural lighting

If you’re looking to build your lighting into your architecture, then check out this awesome hallway! LED strip lights have been installed in the ceiling and the walls to create a glow of light from above. With this kind of lighting, the light gently falls down the side of the wall yet provides so much brightness to the area.

hallway-lighting-LED-strips
Source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

8. Minimalist feature

Another way to use LED strip lights is vertically rather than horizontally. LED strip lights are great for giving a very industrial and modern look to a space. If you love out of the box and quirky home designs, then this idea is something you should totally take inspiration from!

9. Up downlights

When your lights go up and down you call them… up downlights! And I just love the effect that these lights give to light up a dark wall! Not only do they look great, but they are functional too. Win-win!

10. Sleek Scandi style

I’m certainly a massive lover of Scandinavian style spaces and this hallway is giving me all those vibes. I love the sleek hallway downlights which go so well with the black window framing here. Just add a patterned rug and you have yourself a beautiful Scandinavian style hallway with effective lighting to boot.

Check out more Scandinavian home inspiration!

hallway lighting downlights
Source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

11. “Let’s do this”

Want a bold and positive reminder every time you walk down this hallway? Why not bring in a custom neon sign at the end of the hallway? It’s a great way to bring some light into a space, all whilst making a statement.

12. Dramatic statement lights

Want impressive lighting for your hallway, then you can’t really go wrong with layered crystal chandeliers like these. They make an awesome feature of this space. The black fittings also merge perfectly into the colour scheme here.

hallway chandeliers
Source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

13. Wall sconces

Wall sconces give a very comforting and traditional feel to a hallway. And for an even more classic look, choose sconces with a gold finish.

14. Monochromatic detail

Ah, I absolutely love this stunning space! I would love to walk up and down this hallway all day every day. The monochromatic colour palette looks beautiful paired with black framed partition and doors. Plus the black pendant light is the perfect addition to allow for monochromatic detail and a stylish interior.

hallway monochrome pendant
Source: Photo by Alexandra Gornago on Unsplash

15. Floor lights

Floor lights are a great idea in a hallway. Hallways are spaces that are walked through often, and if you ever need to get a drink in the middle of the night, it will make things so much easier if the path to your fridge is illuminated!

16. Long and inviting

A long hallway can be made to feel inviting through the choice of colours and lighting. Here, a neutral palette creates interest with an asymmetrical layout—how handy is that inset hallway seat? And a simple downlight does the job perfectly here.

hallway-lighting-modern
Source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

17. Black, white and gold

Black, white and gold really is such a classic, beautiful combination. And this hallway is the perfect example of just that! Black and white walls are glammed up with a fancy gold-toned chandelier, while some simple unobtrusive wall sconces add functional light.

hallway chandelier
Source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

18. Reflective surfaces

Having reflective surfaces in your home means that light will easily bounce off a lot of different surfaces at the same time. So opt for consoles with mirror finishes, reflective flooring, or simply add a large hallway mirror.

19. Wow factor

Walking into this hallway entrance would certainly give your guests the wow factor! Taking advantage of the tall ceilings, this multi-element light fitting is eye-catching and unique. Wow indeed!

hallway lighting ideas
Source: Photo by Emmanuel Ikwuegbu on Unsplash

20. Dark neutral tones

Ah, I just love all the beautiful, deep, neutral tones in this hallway entrance! The wooden finishes of the doors, add so much warmth whilst the simple square light fittings repeat the angles and lines of this masculine looking space.

hallway-lighting-max-light
Source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

21. Rustic metal pendants

This rustic metal pendant works so well against the white wall and nature tones of the décor of this hallway/dining room space. I’m loving the Boho flavours of the organic tones and eclectic décor—if you do too, you might also like to check out our article on beautiful Boho bedrooms.

skylight and pendant
Source: Photo by Ron Lach from Pexels

22. Luxury lighting

This opulent hallway and staircase space wouldn’t be out of place in a celebrity’s home with the elegant, extravagant chandelier drawing attention to the vast ceilings. This shows just how much of an impact a single light fitting can have in an interior.

hallway and staircase lighting
Source: Photo by Rhema Kallianpur on Unsplash

23. Sparkly chandeliers

Here’s another hallway that has utilised the opulence of chandeliers. There is a beautiful large sparkly crystallised chandelier in the entrance as well as the chandelier in the dining area that is visible from the hallway that both look beautiful against the grey tones of the paintwork.

24. Iron uplights

We’ve talked about downlights and up-downlights, but what about just uplights?! I love the look of classic iron uplights that really help to illuminate a hallway space while bringing vintage vibes.

25. Skylights

If your roof permits it, skylights are a great way to bring in light to an area without having to use any electricity. The skylight in this hallway brings in so much natural light. It’s creates the perfect conditions for your sun-loving indoor plants!

hallway-lighting-skylight
Source: Photo by tom balabaud from Pexels

26. Ceiling ring lights

Ring lights are a great way to bring lots of light to a certain area with ease. I love how ceiling ring lights are an ode to a traditional ceiling light, however with a futuristic and modern edge. If your hallway doesn’t have any windows nearby, the ring light will ensure the space is successfully lit.

27. Simple, elegant and spacious

This hallway is certainly simple, elegant and spacious. The hallway entrance is minimalistic and oh-so-chic with the monochromatic colour palette and simple details. When you want to create a spacious look but still want to add some lighting, then rows of tiny downlights are the perfect choice.

hallway downlights
Source: Photo by Skylar Kang from Pexels

So there we have it, 25+ hallway lighting ideas to inspire you to bring some more light into your hallways! I absolutely love the spaces that utilise glass lighting pendants as well as the areas that match the pendants to the rest of the decor. What lighting ideas will you be using for inspiration in your hallway? Let me know below!

22 best bathroom lighting ideas

Transform your bathroom from tired to tranquil with our bathroom lighting ideas.

22 best bathroom lighting ideas

Gone are the days when you’d just put up one of those multiple lights with the centre heat light in the middle of the ceiling and be done with it. Now, choosing bathroom lighting can actually feel a bit overwhelming thanks to the sheer amount of options on offer. But if you follow some simple guidelines, you’ll soon be putting the fun into functionality. For bathroom light fixtures and fittings that really make a splash, here are my favourite bathroom lighting ideas for your next spruce up.

A little bit about bathroom lighting

Bathroom lighting experts like to talk about using the “three layers of light” to create a mix of lighting fixtures. Having several light sources enhances a bathroom to prevent it from looking too generic. Different zones of the space have different functions, so a variety of lighting choices is needed for the vanity, tub and shower areas.

For example, to create a soothing ambience in the tub area, you’ll want to avoid overhead fixtures in favour of wall sconces. And your lighting at the vanity is super important to get right. It has to give you the flattering, shadowless illumination you need to attend to your makeup or shaving and tooth care needs.

bathroom-lighting-ideas-bulbs
Source: Photo by Claus Grünstäudl on Unsplash

Bathroom lighting design

There are basically three types of lighting. These are:

  1. Ambient lighting (general or mood lighting) can be thought of as “filler” light, distributing light evenly through the room.
  2. Task lighting is functional, practical and necessary for daily grooming and beauty tasks. It’s usually found illuminating areas needing extra visibility (so around the mirror and vanity).
  3. Accent lighting (feature lighting) draws attention to special décor features but may also work as task lighting. Statement lights, which add personality and atmosphere, are a form of accent lighting.

So how you do you layer the different kinds of light to create the perfect mix of bathroom lighting fixtures?

bathroom-lighting-slim-pendant
Source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

Creating a lighting plan

Start by creating a good lighting plan. First, you’ll need to assess your needs. For example, think about:

  • When do you use the bathroom most?
  • What for?
  • How much natural light is there?
  • What’s the ambience you want to create?
  • Are there any features you want to highlight?
  • What’s the style or look you’re going for?
  • What’s your bathroom’s ceiling height and scale?

Then, mark up a floorplan with the location of fixtures and fittings, windows and doors, light switches and pulls and so on. Work with your electrician to find workable solutions and discuss all the details, like the type of bulb or its colour or temperature. Remember they do this professionally and can be a great source of information.

Now, let’s take a look at 22  tips and tricks for bathroom lighting ideas.

1. Maximise natural light

When it comes to bathroom lighting, start with the natural light that you have flowing through. Make sure you really maximise it as a source of ambient light as much as you can. Then supplement it with your other layers of lighting. And for floods of lovely natural light, go ahead and leave windows as naked as your blissfully bathing self.

bathroom-lighting-ideas-natural-light
Source: Photo by Ryan Christodoulou on Unsplash

Lighting for white bathrooms

An all-white look is good for maximising light because white is fantastic at reflecting light. It can make small spaces seem much larger, so it’s a perfect colour choice for those with tiny bathrooms.

2. Warm metals

When it comes to lighting styles that suit white bathrooms, it’s a great idea to add accent lights to counteract the sometimes blinding starkness of the all-white aesthetic. Brass, both for tapware and for pendant lights, is a lovely way to bring warmth into a serene, minimalist, all-white bathroom.

3. Go white on white

Another chic look for a white bathroom is to feature white statement lights. It’s a crisp, fresh look that especially suits coastal or Scandi-style bathrooms.

4. Glam up with gilt

A contemporary bathroom can be given more character and maturity with touches of brass in the lighting. Glamorous gilt light fixtures inject a bit of elegance into a plain room. And they’re especially good at warming up spaces that feature a lot of stone.

bathroom-lighting-ideas-cove-lighting
Source: Photo by Amira Aboalnaga on Unsplash

5. Look for organic lightshades

Warm up and personalise an austere all-white tiled bathroom with natural materials like rattan. You could even look into DIY basket pendants, especially if you love a coastal vibe.

6. Try timber lights

Have a minimalist, coastal-flavoured bathroom with timber cabinetry? Consider timber light fittings to add to the natural textures and warmth.

7. Install a skylight

If you’re renovating, you should consider installing a skylight if you can. Skylights let a lot of light in, without causing too much glare or shadow. They can definitely be affordable, so take a look around. This bathroom’s skylight creates lovely waterfalls of sunlight in the tub area.

bathroom-lighting-ideas-skylight
Source: Photo by Joyful on Unsplash

Lighting a dark or coloured bathroom

White bathrooms definitely look clean and inviting and I can understand their everlasting appeal. But there’s been a big move towards exploring dark-to-black bathroom palettes in recent years. Why? Because a dark palette can feel very soothing and its “masculinity” often appeals as well. And if you light it the right way, this look can work. Similarly, if you love a richly coloured bathroom, clever lighting is important to ensure appropriate illumination.

8. Mix tones

If you like a very dark bathroom, keep it from looking like a dungeon by introducing a range of textures and tones, including some lighter ones. And, obviously, bring in lots of light, both natural and artificial. For example, matte black tapware can beautifully punctuate marble and tile for a minimalist aesthetic, and then soften it all up with a glass statement pendant.

bathroom-lighting-ideas-moody-dark-bathroom
Source: Photo by NSH on Unsplash

9. Lighten up with downlights

If you are going for a minimalist look and love the idea of dark walls, consider having a lighter-coloured roof, to avoid an overly cavernous feeling. Recessed downlights in the ceiling will keep things perfectly illuminated.

10. Have concealed lighting

When it comes to dark bathrooms, having plenty of light sources is a must. This might mean cove lighting, concealed bar downlights, or backlit vanity mirrors. The diffuse warm ambient light from above provides sufficient illumination. And it lifts the heaviness of a dark colour scheme and the use of stone.

bathroom-lighting-ideas-modern
Source: Photo by Alexandru Ionescu on Unsplash

11. Coloured tile and dangling pendants

Hanging glass pendants contribute to the clean lines of this sea-green bathroom. Tiles are wonderful for helping bounce light around the space. Here, a skylight also allows in plenty of light to counter the solid expanse of saturated colour.

bathroom-lighting-ideas-green-tiles
Source: Photo by Andrew Neel from Pexels

(Love this tile look? Installing tiles is best left to the professional tilers for a flawless look.)

Pendants, bulbs or sconces?

12. Group pendants

Multiply the impact of a glass pendant light by hanging a cluster of lamps above the vanity.

13. Hang Scandi-style light bulbs

Apart from sconces and pendants with shades, you could also go for the exposed bulb look. Revealed bulb fittings make good duty lights while creating a gentle, unobtrusive ambience.

14. Install a horizontal light bar

Think about installing a long, slim light bar on the ceiling and down the sides of a large mirror. It delivers a clean, linear look for a minimalist bathroom.

15. Light it up

Do you have a feature ceiling to show off? Don’t compete with the lighting—choose understated, recessed central light fittings. (Love a painted feature ceiling? Painting a ceiling can be a real pain in the neck, and there’s no shame in getting some help with your bathroom painting.)

16. Add sconces for task lighting

A pair of vintage sconces on either side of the mirror offers the best lighting for intricate beauty tasks, as well as having a decorative effect. You can add a lot of personality with a pair of vintage sconces. You can evoke the classic Parisian glamour of yesteryear with an ornate antique mirror and antique sconces on either side. Add fresh flowers, play a little Edith Piaf, et voila!

bathroom-lighting-ideas-sconces
Source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

17. Add cove lights

You could also try cove lighting, where lights are embedded in recessed cabinets or ledges. This kind of lighting generates a good amount of ambient light but it can also act as accent lighting to highlight curated objects.

18. Go retro

Give a nostalgic nod to a brightly tiled bathroom by adding a quirky, vintage plastic light fixture. Or, how about a chandelier for old-world vibes?

bathroom-lighting-chandelier
Source: Photo by Євгенія Височина on Unsplash

19. Use lights to go industrial

Industrial interior design. It’s a mid-century style that was repopularised by 1980s romcoms. (You know, all those singles with stunning apartments “in the meatpacking district of New York”). And the style is still going strong well into the new millennium. There are plenty of replica styles or just go with simple metal pendants.

20. Make a statement

One of the most important bathroom lighting ideas is to include a statement or feature light. A tiled or wallpapered bathroom has plenty of texture, and that provides the ideal backdrop for stunning architectural ceiling lights.

21. Be Boho with candles

Don’t forget that energy-efficient option: candlelight. Collect gorgeous vessels to fill with candles for the classic candle-lit bath. The subtle illumination of candlelight creates a soothing ambience. And it sets a relaxed, romantic tone.

bathroom-lighting-candles
Source: Photo by Brooke Lark on Unsplash

22. Go for bespoke

Finally, go beyond these bathroom lighting ideas and get exactly what you want by working with a lighting professional. Create a custom lighting system within your practical constraints and your imagination. Try online searching for someone in your area to take your bathroom lighting ideas to. Or try asking your electrician for a recommendation.

And that’s a wrap on our best 22 bathroom lighting ideas. Proof that there’s clearly a wide variety of choices available for you to consider when it comes to upgrading your bathroom lighting. And the beauty is that lighting is something you can play with whether you’re renting, renovating or building.

Over to you—which bathroom lighting ideas align most with your taste? Let me know in the comments below.

My bathroom needs work, how much will it cost?

Have these bathroom lighting ideas inspired you? If you’re thinking of updating your bathroom, you might like to have a go at estimating how much your dream bathroom rejuvenation will cost. Our price guides can help. For example, see:

Planning to remodel your whole bathroom? You’re probably also looking at bathroom flooring, waterproofing and ceiling fan installation.

Need more inspo first? Try our recent blogs covering modern house designs and general bathroom design ideas.

30+ Kitchen lighting ideas – kitchen pendant lights, functional lighting

Take your kitchen design to the next level with fancy feature lighting.

30+ Kitchen lighting ideas – kitchen pendant lights, functional lighting

One simple way to transform your kitchen’s design without having to overhaul everything is to switch out your kitchen lighting. The chances are your kitchen lighting could do with a change to something slightly newer and more modern.

When it comes to choosing your kitchen lighting, there are so many creative lights to choose from – from glamorous pendant lights to industrial lights to simple wall lights to black-and-white statement lights to dramatic chandeliers. But with so many options on the market, how do you decide which light is the best fit for your kitchen?

When it comes to picking a kitchen light you need to consider what colour your kitchen is, how many you need, what metal finishings you have and whether you’re looking for feature or functional lighting.

kitchen-lighting-glass
Source: Photo by Laurence Katz on Unsplash

Refer to your colour scheme

First, you need to consider your existing colour scheme. Make sure you choose light fixtures that match your current style and don’t detract from it. You might want to think about whether you want something to blend in or stand out, which is down to personal preference.

Decide on the number of lights

Secondly, you need to decide how many lights you require to provide the right level of ambience. If you have a large kitchen, then you might need to consider a mixture of ceiling lights, wall lights and lamps. But if you have a smaller kitchen, then a simple ceiling light might do the trick.

Think about your hardware

Third, you need to think about your hardware. Do you have silver, brass or black finishings? It’s important to match your lighting fixtures to your hardware for a consistent design.

Consider a feature light

Lastly, you need to consider whether your space requires a fancy standout feature light or whether it just needs some simple subtle lighting.

To kickstart your research, I’ve dished up ##+ kitchen lighting ideas, including pendant lights and functional lighting to help you find the right light for your kitchen.

1. Extra-long brass pendants

These brass pendants are ultra-modern and sleek. I like how they’ve been positioned to hang directly above the kitchen island. This creates a classy finish.

kitchen-lighting-thin-pendants
Source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

2. Glass pendant lights

If you want to choose something elegant, then simple hanging pendant lights might be the perfect option for you. A popular look is to choose lights that come together in a pod of three, and have them gently hang down from black cord.

3. Circular black pendant lights

If you’re looking for something that’s modern yet out of the box, then these pendant lights might just be the right fit. They’re a pleasing circular shape and they add personality to the room. Not to mention that the slick dark colour provides the perfect amount of contrast against the light neutral cabinets and flooring.

kitchen-lighitng-pendants
Source: Photo by Im3rd Media on Unsplash

4. Brass pendant light

Nothing makes a statement more than a large brass light shade. And this one is no exception. If you’re going for a brass light, like this, then it’s important to consider the rest of your kitchen. I recommend keeping things fairly neutral by using whites and timber, so your brass light can truly be the star of the show!

kitchen-light-feature
Source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

5. Brass dome

Brass, brass and more brass! OK, you’re going to be seeing a lot of brass lights in this list because brass is very much in right now. But the luckily they come in so many different shapes, sizes and styles, that I can keep sharing them. Take the classic dome light, for example. Even better if it’s textured on the outside to add character to the space!

6. Brass and glass

Here’s another brass option, but this time with fluted glass. This is a stunning choice for a modern  farmhouse kitchen design. I love the way the light fittings complement the brass faucet.

kitchen-lghting-brass-and-glass
Source: Photo by Laurence Katz on Unsplash

7. Rose gold pendant lights

If you’re after something that adds a feminine touch to a mostly masculine slick-black kitchen, then gorgeous rose gold pendants are a great option.

8. Trio of pendants

This trio of black caged pendants creates a striking focal point for this kitchen. And I love how the black accents have been continued throughout the kitchen, including in the kitchen island seating and cabinet handles.

kitchen-lighting-wire-cage
Source: Photo by Sidekix Media on Unsplash

9. Multiple Edison bulbs

Light up your kitchen with an entire row of Edison bulbs encased in rectangular glass. This is a great option if you’re wanting to add a statement lighting piece without detracting from the rest of your kitchen.

10. Rattan lamp shades

Over the last few years, rattan has had a renaissance, and there are no signs of the trend fading anytime soon. While there are so many ways to incorporate rattan in your kitchen, one of the most simple and effective ways is to install rattan pendants. They typically resemble upside-down baskets, and they are a more relaxed option than fancy chandeliers. And they add a Boho touch to your kitchen. But whether you’re into Boho style or not, rattan is worth considering. However you use them, they’ll look fabulous.

kitchen-lighting-woven
Source: Photo by Sosey Interiors on Unsplash

11. Polished nickel pentagon

Love a fancy light? How about an open cage, polished nickel pendant. These look very glam in a modern kitchen. Combine the pendant with silver hardware, marble and white touches for a gorgeous final design.

Need a new light put in? Find someone to measure up and take care of your pendant light installation.

12. Country style

If you’re going for a rustic kitchen design, choose lights that match. These pretty and unusual pendant lights are the perfect option for this kitchen. The colour works with the rest of the kitchen while adding a point of interest.

kitchen-lights-with-character
Source: Photo by Tina Witherspoon on Unsplash

For more timber, natural stone and metal, you should take a look at these country kitchen and farmhouse kitchen ideas.

13. Dandelion chandeliers

While it’s important to choose great lighting for practical purposes. You should also allow yourself to have a bit of fun. Choose something out of the box, like dandelion-inspired chandeliers. These glass beauties look great surrounding the traditional kitchen island, and I bet they would look pretty cool in your kitchen too.

14. Elegant silver

If you like glitz and glam, then go all out with silver or gold touches. These bulbous silver hanging lights are a beautiful choice for this white and timber kitchen. And they tie together nicely with the cabinet hardware and tapware.

kitchen-lighting-contrasting-silver
Source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

15. Glossy colourful pendants

If you want to choose coloured light shades, then it’s important to first think about the existing colours in your kitchen. For example, if your kitchen colour scheme is timber and grey, then a glossy green light will look stunning.

16. Black and glass

And here’s another twist on the glass light. But this time, the glass is contained in a black steel frame. This is a great choice for a modern kitchen. The black hardware stands out against the clean white ceiling and looks lovely teamed with the dark timber island and white cabinets.

kitchen-lighting-bar
Source: Photo by Jonah Brown on Unsplash

If you love this darker kitchen and fancy some more examples. Here are my favourite black kitchen ideas.

17. Wall lights

While hanging pendant lights are usually the focus of attention when it comes to kitchen lighting, it’s important to consider wall lights. These understated beauties add light where it’s needed the most – above benchtops and sinks. And they can be used to highlight important feature pieces like décor or paintings and prints.

18. Cabinet lights

If you’re looking for something more discreet that will light up your shelves then you should consider small cabinet lights like these. You can find them in a range of colours and styles – from white to black to brass and everything in between. Just make sure you choose a colour that suits your kitchen colour scheme.

kitchen-lighting-cabinet-lights
Source: Photo by Sidekix Media on Unsplash

19. Tinted globe

If you want to add some light and shade to your kitchen lighting, choose a tinted globe. This allows the light to contrast against the rest of the white kitchen.

20. Classic lighting

These lights are a little more classic. While they can work in a modern kitchen, they’re best suited to a kitchen that’s an infusion of modern and traditional. And I think this kitchen hits both of these marks.

kitchen-lighting-subtle
Source: Photo by Point3D Commercial Imaging Ltd. on Unsplash

21. Two-toned pendant

While most pendant lights stick to one colour, you can add interest by combining two! For instance, you might have a light where the inside is brass and the exterior is white, allowing the brass to peep out from under the white cover. It’s such a nice touch that gives your kitchen a little extra oomph.

22. Metallic design

You can always spruce up your kitchen with metallic light fittings as they add shimmer and sparkle to your space. These golden pendants do a wonderful job of warming up this grey kitchen.

kitchen-lighting-warm-metallics
Source: Photo by Helen Thomas on Unsplash

23. Large lantern light

While lanterns have traditionally been used outdoors, they’ve made their way indoors in recent years. And they can make a bold statement piece in any kitchen – whether it’s traditional or modern.

24. Gold chandelier

If simple and understated isn’t your style, improve your kitchen with a fancy gold chandelier like this one. Now, you might think this should only be reserved for large, grand houses. But if you have a large enough kitchen, you can incorporate whatever kind of light you like!

kitchen-lighting-chandelier
Source: Photo by Chastity Cortijo on Unsplash

25. Orb lights

Glass orbs are a simple yet striking pendant that will look good in any kitchen. These are the options for you if you’re after something simple that won’t detract from your kitchen design.

26. Light above the sink

You need light when you’re doing dishes, too! Choose a gorgeous black and gold wall light like this one. And, if that’s not enough, add classic black lamps to your walls as well.

kitchen-lighting-farmhouse
Source: Photo by Chastity Cortijo on Unsplash

27. Classic bar light

If you’re going for a classic kitchen, then you can’t go wrong with a cylindrical bar light. And going for a black bar light will make it more contemporary.

28. Ceramic pendants

With ceramics being all the rage right now, why not install a ceramic pendant light? This pod of white lights adds a layer of interest to this small kitchen without being too much. And white and gold lights are a thing of Pinterest kitchen dreams!

kitchen-lighting-white-ceramic
Source: Photo by Sabrina Mazzeo on Unsplash

29. Glass and silver

Go ultra-modern with a white kitchen with glass-encased lights. Silver hardware is a great touch for these lights because it keeps the space simple and clean. You can have the lights over your kitchen island different from the lights over your table, but you should try to select a similar design with silver and glass.

30. Glam it up

On the other hand, if you want your light to be the hero of the show, choose something fancy and fun like this light. I don’t know exactly how many bulbs are on this fixture but there sure are a lot! The white colour means the light won’t take away from the rest of the white kitchen but will add a gorgeous warm glow in the night.

kitchen-lighting-dramatic
Source: Photo by Chastity Cortijo on Unsplash

31. Chain

Add an industrial touch to your country-style kitchen by choosing a hanging light that uses a chain or exposed electrical wire. This adds a layer of detail and intrigue to your kitchen design.

If the edgy warehouse aesthetic appeals, then an industrial kitchen might be the look you need.

32. Feature piece

There’s nothing like a fancy feature piece to catch the eye and make your guests exclaim “wow!” And I love this one with its unique squiggle design.  The unstructured style makes it a great fit over the top of the structured kitchen island area.

kitchen-lighting-quirky
Source: Photo by Kam Idris on Unsplash

33. Downlights

Finally, add atmosphere to your kitchen by placing downlights in strategic spots like above your sink, on top of floating shelves or in little nooks and crannies. Downlights always look very contemporary and chic, and add a gorgeous gentle glow to your kitchen.

kitchen-lighting-downlights
Source: Photo by Steven Ungermann on Unsplash

There you have it – that’s 30+ kitchen lighting ideas, including kitchen pendant lights, functional lighting, wall lights and more. Of course, you’ll need to choose the best lighting for your unique space. And make sure the colours match up with your cabinets, benchtops, flooring and existing hardware.

Before you go, I’d love to hear from you! Which lighting fixture is your favourite? Maybe you prefer coastal rattan or ceramic white. Or perhaps your style is modern brass or multiple bulbs encased in clear glass. Comment and share your favourite! And if you think something is missing from the list, comment and share your lighting suggestions.

25+ Living room lighting ideas – ceiling light ideas, wall light ideas

Just changing a light can change the ambience of a whole room, here's why...

25+ Living room lighting ideas – ceiling light ideas, wall light ideas

Lights are the unsung heroes of any living room. They add warmth, atmosphere, style, colour, and a whole lot of character. And there are just so many designs to choose from and it can be overwhelming with where to start. That’s why I put together this list of my absolute favourite living room lighting ideas.

When looking for lights you’ll want to choose lights that fit in with your current living room design. So it’s important to have a think about exactly what that is before you start buying every beautiful light off the shelf. If you want to create a sophisticated living room, then you might want to go with a simple white design. If you want to create a dark, moody space, then an industrial wrought iron might be for you. Or if you want to create a living room that screams fun, then you might want to choose something bold and colourful.

But what about style? If you’re renting, maybe you can only buy a floor lamp or change a covering. Or if you have an electrician, perhaps you can put in a pendant light, several downlights or even gallery tracking lights to show off your artwork.

To help you pick the right option for you, I’ve compiled a list of 25+ living room lighting ideas, including ceiling lights, wall lamps, and so much more. So there’s something in here to suit every style and taste. Are you ready? Let’s dive in!

1. Sophisticated lamp

Lamps are a great way to add extra ambience to your living room. Take this one, for example. It’s a very chic style that matches with the creamy colours of the rest of the living room. It’s elegant and beautiful without stealing the show.

living-room-lighting-standing-lamp

2. Brass and white wall sconce

Wall lighting is seriously underrated – it can add warmth and atmosphere to a room. A double-ended white and brass light is a beautiful design feature for a living room, for example. Tie it in perfectly with a glass and brass lamp on a side table or brass detailing on your coffee table.

3. Combine different styles of lamps

Who says you have to stick to one style of lamp? Get creative by combining different types of lamps, at different heights, like in this living room.

living-room-lighting-white-lamps
Source: Photo by Nathan Fertig on Unsplash

4. Industrial floodlighting

Floodlighting is usually used outdoors to light up large fields, but it looks awesome brought indoors to a living room. Even a small ‘floodlight’ style floor lamp adds an industrial touch to a modern living room space. It can also serves as an art piece of its own, by the sheer fact that it isn’t any normal household light!

5. Elaborate chandelier

If you want to make a statement with your lighting choice, then you can’t go past this. How incredible is this huge, glass chandelier? I love the contrast between the traditional light fitting and the contemporary décor. It feels very modern yet a little bid mid century.

living-room-lighting-quirky
Source: Photo by Ksenia Chernaya from Pexels

6. Art Deco light

Art Deco and mid-century styles are having a moment. So if it’s a look that you want to achieve in your home, there is a lot of inspiration out there. But for Art Deco, you really can’t go past a classic multi-tiered chandelier.

7. Quirky ceiling light

This light is funky! And it adds a whole lot of fun to this living room. When choosing a light for your space, remember that you can always change it later. So why not go with something that’s a bit out of the box? The result will be a character-infused space that you love.

living-room-lighting-unique
Source: Photo by Mengyi on Unsplash

8. Rattan pendant light

Rattan be it natural, white or black is a lovely modern light material that can be used in a wonderful oversized way and make a large impact. It’s really great value for money if you want a quick makeover for your living room.

9. Brass lamp over a bookcase

Is there something in your living room that you want to showcase? Maybe it’s a unique piece of art or a plant or, like in this case, a bookcase! A wall lamp can help to highlight this feature by drawing people’s gaze.

living-room-lighting-metallics
Source: Photo by Ambitious Creative Co. – Rick Barrett on Unsplash

10. Multi-bulb chandelier

The unique shape of this chandelier is what makes it stand out from the rest. The many bulbs shine beautifully together and their round forms complement the on-trend curved furniture.

living-room-lighting-chandelier
Source: Photo by Collov Home Design on Unsplash

11. Brass pendant

How cute is this hanging pendant light? Brass has been a huge trend over the last few years. While some may say it’s had its day, I think it’s timeless. Brass adds an industrial-chic style to any space, bringing it into the 21st century.

living-room-lighting-statement-light
Source: Photo by Connor Wang on Unsplash

12. Coastal pendant light

A lantern-style light is a sure statement piece for a cosy, coastal style living room. It’s a bold choice but if you ensure it fits into the same colour theme as the rest of the room, it will work!

13. Black shaded ceiling light

For a modern, clean look, you can’t go past this black shaded hanging ceiling light. This will work in almost any room, but it will look especially good in a light, all-white space like this one. To keep your black and white living room from looking bland, add a splash of warmth with leather and timber furniture.

living-room-lighting-drum
Source: Photo by Josh Hemsley on Unsplash

14. Twisted rope

Now you don’t see this kind of light every day. If you want something out of the box, this style of dramatic dangling light might be the choice for you. It would be the perfect option for a cosy cabin or snow retreat.

living-room-lighting-dramatic
Source: Photo by Matt Seymour on Unsplash

15. Brass table lamp

A mid-century brass lamp looks great sitting on a marble-topped cabinet and against a dark wall. This proves that it’s important to think about the colours when you choose your lighting. Think about how the colour of the shade and body of the lamp will match with your existing decor and paint.

16. Dramatic floor lamp

On the other hand, you could go all out and make a bold statement with a large floor lamp. Imagine yourself in this space, sitting back and reading a good book with a cup of tea – wouldn’t that be nice?

living-room-lighting-coloured-lamp
Source: Photo by Rachel Claire from Pexels

17. White and gold wall sconce

White and gold wall sconces are an elegant choice that will look great teamed up with other gold elements. You could even perfectly position your gorgeous wall lamp directly above a gold bar cart. If you’re going for this style, consider adding some fun prints or photographs in a similar colour scheme between the wall light and the bar cart. You can also fill your cart with books, family heirlooms or your favourite bottles of wine.

18. Simple in-built ceiling downlights

If you want to keep things stripped back and minimal, then consider installing lights into your ceiling as opposed to hanging from the roof or on the wall. I like how these lights have been arranged in a perfect square above the sitting area.

living-room-lighting-downlights
Source: Photo by Vecislavas Popa from Pexels

19. Black modern wall sconce

A black modern wall sconce is a quirky choice that looks fabulous next to black frames and monochrome wall prints. Black is a great choice to ever so slightly offset an overall white space. And the great thing about this style is that the black wall light adds a touch of masculinity to an otherwise neutral room.

20. Pendant globe light

Looking for something that’s a bit out of the ordinary? Well, this pendant light might just be the choice for you. It adds a beautiful pearly white shine to this monochrome living room design.

living-room-lighting-globe-pendant
Source: Photo by Andrew Leu on Unsplash

21. Leather and iron

A leather and iron light fitting is the perfect choice for a masculine living room. So if you’ve already got dark walls and furniture, then why not add in a ceiling light with touches of leather and iron. Integrate these design elements throughout the room by using touches of leather and dark metal.

22. A combination of styles

This living room includes all sorts of lighting styles – from a series of white circular pendant lights to serious downlighting to a single oversized pendant lamp over the kitchen table. This proves that you don’t have to stick to one style or type of lamp to give your living room the lighting it needs. Have fun by playing around with different colours, textures and styles. Your living room might just end up looking as fabulous as this one!

living-room-lighting-white-pendants
Source: Photo by Vecislavas Popa from Pexels

23. Dainty ceiling light

If you want to add a feminine touch to your living room or spruce up your already pretty pink space, why not choose a statement ceiling light. Opting for a rose gold colour looks lovely with cream-coloured furniture and soft pink walls.

24. Small modern lights on the wall

This choice is for the modern living room lover. Simple industrial-style lights can do a whole lot of good for your living room without being overbearing.

living-room-lighting-horiztonal-bar
Source: Photo by Taylor Friehl on Unsplash

25. Silver and glass wall lamp

If you’re sick of brass and black but still want to steer clear of the same old white, then why not consider silver? A silver and glass light especially stands out against coloured living room walls.

26. Simplistic round lights

This is a beautiful option for a light, airy space and would look fabulous in a coastal style house. If you have a neutral colour scheme, then you should seriously consider installing some of these round pendant lights in your living room. It adds a whole lot of interest but also looks consistent with the colours.

living-room-lighting-pendants
Source: Photo by Don Kaveen on Unsplash

So, there you have it – 25+ living room lighting ideas. Which ones were your favourite? And which ones are you going to incorporate in your own living room? I personally love all of the brass and gold lights! There are just so many options but it depends on your personal style and the design of your space.

If you’re a minimalist at heart, then you might want to go with simple lights installed in the roof of your ceiling. If you like things a little more glam, then a glassy chandelier might be the choice for you. Or if you like them all, then why not combine a few different styles in the form of table lamps, floor lamps, suspended ceiling lights, and wall lamps. The choice is yours!

Before you go, I’d love to hear from you. Tell me which style is your favourite, and which one you’re going to try out in your living room.

Pendant Lighting Styles For Every Home

Pendant lights can truly lift a room but if you’re not careful it could be an expensive mistake. So it’s "Pendant Lighting Styles For Every Home"

Pendant Lighting Styles For Every Home

Pendant lights can truly lift a room but if you’re not careful it could be an expensive mistake. So it’s important to not fall in love with the latest pendant light from ‘The Block’, but invest in a light that fits in with your current décor. To help you find the right light for you, we’ve put together our collection of pendant lighting styles.

Beach Chic

Pendant Styles 1
Source: indulgy

Relaxed, casual and with a hint of fun is one way to describe Beach Chic. It’s a classic style that can be adapted to modern trends very quickly and recent pendant lighting products reflect that. The new breed of pendants takes on that beach vibe through the use of rattan and wood combined with modern LED lights. The natural, neutral tones are still all there enabling you to incorporate them seamlessly into your beach-themed zone.

Pendant Styles 2
Source: houzz

Industrial

Pendant Styles 3
Source: houzz

Industrial is very NOW. You can’t walk past a café or bar these days without seeing metres of polished concrete, metal finishes and oodles of copper and brass fixtures. Many homeowners are choosing to bring this trend into their personal spaces by incorporating industrial pendant lighting in their kitchens, lounges or even bars. If you like the sleek, minimalist, no-fuss look then industrial could be the way to go.

Pendant Styles 4
Source: houzz

How does an industrial light work in the kitchen? Here’s our tips on kitchen pendant lighting.

Hollywood Glamour

Pendant Styles 5
Source: steelmagnoliasandsweettea

When you think of style and glamour, chandeliers traditionally come to mind. But if they aren’t your thing, there are still an infinite amount of ways to bring a touch of Hollywood into your home using pendant ceiling lighting. Look for lights that incorporate colour, glass, textured shades and shiny finishes. Also pay attention to the varieties of bulbs, dimmers and light diffusers on offer as they can help you bring out the detail in your styled space. Remember – don’t worry about excess when it comes to bling! Don’t be afraid to shine it up, people.

Pendant Styles 6
Source: houzz

Nordic

Pendant Styles 7
Source: fatshackvintage

The easiest way to describe the Nordic style is well, simple. Simplicity in design, in colour and in thought. No fancy swirls and twirls here, just plain lines with classic contours. This is why the style is so popular today as it can easily be adapted to most interiors. IKEA is a perfect example of how this design style has been embraced by people worldwide. If you’d like to bring a bit of the Nordic into your space look for lights that are simple in structure with neutral tones. Often less is more and helps you create an elegant look with minimal fuss.

Pendant Styles 8
Source: golights

We hope you enjoyed this trip around the pendant lighting globe. If you’ve come up with an interesting way – or two – of using pendant lighting in your home or have a style you particularly love, feel free to comment below.