INSPIRATION: LIGHT
It can be very easy to underestimate the power of lighting in a design scheme, whether that be from a stunning statement fitting or some subtle downlights. Lighting is closely connected to our emotional and psychological reactions, therefore, if a scheme is wrong many of us will feel it straight away- which will, in turn, impact how the rest of a design is received. I find lighting so inspiring to work with as it is so diverse...
It can be very easy to underestimate the power of lighting in a design scheme, whether that be from a stunning statement fitting or some subtle downlights. Lighting is closely connected to our emotional and psychological reactions, therefore, if a scheme is wrong many of us will feel it straight away- which will, in turn, impact how the rest of a design is received. I find lighting so inspiring to work with as it is so diverse. It can be the spectacle of a room, enhance a design or even give a room an alternative atmosphere at the flick of a switch.
BESPOKE LIGHTING
At Saal Design we have been lucky enough to have had the opportunity to design bespoke light fittings for our customers. The fittings have really added an extra special touch to each design and enriched the branding of our commercial projects.
HIGH IMPACT
Stunning light fittings are very much pieces of functional art. They can be mesmerising and intriguing and will add a unique touch to any design. It is very easy to find over indulgent statement pieces that drip in opulence however, I often think that simple elegance is far more dramatic and effective.
INDUSTRIAL
Industrial designs are currently very popular within interiors and especially within lighting design. I like this style as it combines strong design with the raw necessity of light. As I said in my previous post, Old Meets New, I love combining older styles with contemporary ones and I find it very satisfying using industrial fittings as a part of this. There is something very fun about using a product that was originally created for its functionality within an environment of high design.
CONTEMPORARY
Good contemporary lighting design can be timeless. I think contemporary lighting offers a wide range of applications from a bedside or desk light to a pendant fitting and can really add that finishing touch to a space.
HIDDEN LIGHTING
Sometimes the best kind of lighting is when you don’t even notice its source at all. Hidden lighting is a really fun way to subtly decorate and light a room simultaneously.
LIGHT OF THE FUTURE
Lighting design is evolving rapidly and huge steps are constantly being made towards energy efficiency and greater lighting control. I am constantly inspired by the aesthetic and technical developments and always look forward to discovering new pieces of lighting art.
INSPIRATION: WOOD
Wood is definitely one of my favourite materials to work with and something that constantly inspires me. I think that the authentic purity of wood is something that is hard to find in other materials. There is a certain comfort in creating with a material that has been used and been consistently useful for centuries...
Wood is definitely one of my favourite materials to work with and something that constantly inspires me. I think that the authentic purity of wood is something that is hard to find in other materials. There is a certain comfort in creating with a material that has been used and been consistently useful for centuries.
BESPOKE FURNITURE
At Saal Design we have been lucky enough to be able to create some beautiful bespoke furniture and woodwork for our customers. The wood used and crafted has enriched every design, whether it be by giving it a strong foundation, a magical solution or simply that indescribable wow factor.
IN THE BEDROOM
I recently saw these wooden headboards whilst I was searching for some fresh ideas and instantly wanted a willing customer to design one for. In relation to my previous ‘Old Meets New’ post a lot of these are rejuvenated pieces of woodwork which add a beautiful unique quality to each of the rooms.
A GOOD TABLE
I love a good table and I find it hard to beat a well-crafted wooden one. It is something that can make a bold and practical statement.
FLOOR
Of course one of the best features in a house can be the one that everyone walks over. A wooden floor can give so much to a space. I recently had a new wooden floor in my living room and upon completion the whole house felt like it had been transformed. At the moment, I am really liking the wider panels and innovative finishes.
TRUST IN WOOD
Unlike in fashion, when a new trend comes along every 6 months it is not so easy in interiors to simply ‘get a new wardrobe’. The aim is to find those staple items that one will love for years and years. Wood is one of those staples. It is adaptable and reliable and a material that I’m sure will continue to a inspire me as a designer for many years to come.
OTHER POSTS
The bedroom is one of the most important rooms in the house. Recent studies have shown that people are starting to spend more time in their bedrooms than in their living rooms. It is a room that can have a big impact on our physical and mental well-being and it is important that this is taken into account during the design process...