If we speak to any designer, they're likely to reiterate the importance of lighting, most especially in the kitchen. In the most functional room of the home, it's important that our choices are practical as they are aesthetic, a balance that can be hard to master, but it seems Victoria Beckham has the key.
Victoria, who famously resides in the Cotswolds and London's Holland Park, reportedly has a home in Downtown Miami – a space that is notably more contemporary than her English abodes. It is here that we catch a glimpse of her kitchen lighting, specifically her collection of low-hanging pendants above a long black dining table.
Pendants such as these have already (rightly) had a place among lighting trends over recent years, but as experts explain, their popularity is not set to waver. And with Victoria Beckham's endorsement, are we really surprised?
'Lighting continues to be a big consideration in any interior design. No longer just a functional item or an accessory, lighting is being used to make a statement in any space,' explain Niki Wright and Scarlett Hampton, the co-founders of lights&lamps.
'Exaggerated shapes, oversized forms, and mixed materials will make ceiling pendants as well as floor lamps and table lamps a true talking point within any scheme.'
Lighting expert Matthew Currington agrees. He, too, notes that while lighting has its functional qualities, they are no less important when elevating our room's aesthetic. And pendants, much like Victoria's, are a statement worth investing in as we look toward 2024's design trends.
'In 2024, we will see bold and eye-catching architectural forms in interior lighting.,' he notes. 'Statement ceiling and pendant lights are designed for this emerging trend, embracing gentle and organic forms characterized by curves, rings and globes.'
'This style is perfect for lovers of snug interiors with a contemporary touch. 2024 will popularise the rise of pendant light clusters, where blending of colors and textures is encouraged to craft a distinctive focal point.'
It's decided, pendant lights are in, and they're not going anywhere fast. However, while it's easy to settle on the type of fixture, choosing a bulb is another question. The type of bulb can, too, impact the entire feel of a room, making it crucial to get right. So, where should we begin?
'Generally speaking, cool white or even daylight bulbs are only really good for high tasks or workspace areas where there is no natural light,' Niki and Scarlett say. 'Meanwhile, layering warmer light is a more natural way to brighten your living space and help transition the day into evening.' When evening comes, they also recommend using a dimmer switch [such as this one from Amazon] that will make our kitchens instantly cozier.
For the ultimate Victoria Beckham-inspired starting point, we're looking to this milk glass disc-shaped pendant, originating from the early 20th century. We love its brassy glow, similar to the one seen in her Miami home.
Whether we gather our pendants to make a statement above our kitchen island or use a solo light for ambient task lighting, the experts are in agreement. Pendant lights are safe investments that are only going to get stronger in the year ahead.
