When it comes to finishing your interior design, matching your light switches for a cohesive style can be challenging. While a beautiful screwless finish certainly makes all the difference to your space, a rocker switch may detract from your period or traditional interior. Similarly, a plain dimmer knob can be underwhelming in a maximalist room filled with textures and a rich colour palette.
With the stunning range of dimmer and toggle designs from The Soho Lighting Co. you can go one step further to finding the perfect match for your interior. With five designs to choose from, each one lends a tactile elegance to your chosen finish.
Available in Polished Chrome, Brushed Brass, Brushed Chrome, you can choose matching dimmer and toggle switches for your chosen finish, and this way you can really make the most of your interior design style.
So, let’s take a look at the designs, and how each one can elevate different styles of interior.
Vintage Knurled
Taking inspiration from classic rotary radios of the 30’s and 40’s, The Vintage Knurled offers a retro twist on the plain dimmer and toggle designs with its delightful crosshatch texture.
This charming design works equally well in Polished chrome and Brushed Chrome, the cooler toned metal works beautifully with a modern interior, giving it an extra touch of style, but for that quintessential vintage vibe, Brushed Brass is the way to go, making it ideal for a Boho or Retro style space.
Contemporary Knurled
Similar to the Vintage Knurled with its intricate crosshatch design, the distinctive bands of the Contemporary Knurled design makes it the perfect pairing for a contemporary or modern space.
Try this bold texture with a Brushed Chrome or Polished Chrome switch plate for a sleek design that will enhance a modern interior.
Art Deco
The Art Deco boasts uniform ridges for a sophisticated style that, as its name suggests, pairs beautifully with an Art Deco or even vintage interior.
Use a Brushed Brass Art Deco toggle or dimmer with jewel tone walls and gold accents to pack a stylish punch, or Polished Chrome with a monochrome interior to make a true design statement.
Victorian
Styling a period property can be an extra challenge, especially when modern assets such as light switches need to be taken into consideration. The Victorian toggle and dimmer design bridges the gap between modern necessities and traditional style, offering a new way to blend light switch seamlessly into your period interior.
The smooth form of the Victorian brings understated elegance no matter the finish, though this design works particularly well in Brushed Brass to bring warmth and luxury to your room.
No matter which style or finish you choose, each and every dimmer and toggle design has its own unique character that will help to enhance your space. Whether you prefer Polished Chrome, Brushed Chrome, or Brushed Brass, there’s a dimmer and toggle for your home.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]When it comes to finishing your interior design, matching your light switches for a cohesive style can be challenging. While a beautiful screwless finish certainly makes all the difference to your space, a rocker switch may detract from your period or traditional interior. Similarly, a plain dimmer knob can be underwhelming in a maximalist room […]
Smart lighting is revolutionising the way we light our homes. With the power of smart technology, you can now control your lights with a simple tap on your device or even using your voice. In this guide, we'll break down the basics of smart lighting to help you get started.
What is Smart Lighting?
Smart lighting refers to lighting systems that can be controlled remotely using a smartphone, tablet, or voice commands. These systems typically consist of light fittings, smart bulbs, even light switches. The benefit to smart lighting it that you do not need to be in your home to use them. Particularly beneficial for an added layer of security, you can switch your lights on and off, and even dim your lights from a remote location.
But you won’t be able to buy a smart bulb or switch and begin using it that quickly. You will need a hub that is compatible with your smart lighting. Hubs communicate with smart bulbs and switches through wireless protocols like Wi-Fi, or Zigbee to control your lighting.
Why Smart Lighting?
So, why should you invest in smart lighting? To put it simply, smart lighting is versatile. It allows so much more than simply the on and off, and dimming functions of a traditional light switch.
One of the coolest features of smart lighting is the ability to create custom lighting scenes and schedules. You can set the perfect ambience for movie night, romantic dinners, or waking up in the morning. Scheduling your lights to turn on and off at specific times can also enhance security when you're away from home.
And you can also integrate your smart lighting with other smart devices in your home, too. For example, you can set your lights to turn off automatically when you lock your smart door lock. You can even synchronise them to your music. If you have colour changing lights, you can set these to strobe through different pre-set colour settings.
Next we will guide you through the different types of smart lighting available.
Smart Bulbs
Smart LED bulbs are the easiest way to implement smart lighting into your home without changing your switches and sockets. You can screw these bulbs screw directly into your light fittings and controlled via your device.
These handy little smart bulbs can be found in a variety of shapes, sizes, and even fittings, and can be dimmed, change colours, sync with music. You can also set these bulbs for timed use, or particular ambiences at different times of the day.
Check out our range of Smart Bulbs to find the right bulb for your light fitting.
Smart Switches
Smart switches replace your traditional light switches to control your lighting from your wall and your smart device. The smart switch component generally sits behind the switch, and a retractive switch or toggle is required to use the switch manually in conjunction with the app.
What this means is you can still switch your lights on and off at the wall with ease without interfering with the app. You will still be able to use the dimming, on and off functions, timers, and ambience control that you would usually use with the app.
Our range of Smart Rocker and Toggle Switches are available in the full range of finishes that we stock, ensuring that your smart technology will match the rest of your interior.
Smart Light Fittings
Smart light fittings offer a stylish solution for outdoor lighting, as well as contemporary LED strip-light designs. Downlights are perfect for kitchens and bathrooms and offer a wide range of colours and finishes.
Outdoor smart lighting is a great solution for safety and security. Scheduling a timer for lights can simulate someone being at home and deter any unwanted visitors.
We have a great range of smart lighting, as well as smart downlights to choose from, take a look here!
We hope this guide has helped you to start integrating smart lighting into your home. Remember, with the right smart lighting system and a bit of setup, you’ll be well on your way to having smarter and more convenient lighting. Style can still be infused into your lighting setup, so why not check out our smart lighting options, and infuse style and ambience into your home today!
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Smart lighting is revolutionising the way we light our homes. With the power of smart technology, you can now control your lights with a simple tap on your device or even using your voice. In this guide, we’ll break down the basics of smart lighting to help you get started. What is Smart Lighting? Smart […]
In the world of interior design, the devil is in the details. Every tiny element contributes to the overall aesthetics of your space, and that includes even the most inconspicuous fixtures like sockets and switches. If you're aiming for an eclectic, hip, and contemporary stylised home, there's no better choice than matt black sockets and switches. In this comprehensive buying guide, we'll dive deep into the world of matt black sockets and switches, discussing their advantages, compatibility with various decor styles, and much more.
Matt Black Vs Black Nickel
Before we delve into the nuances of matt black sockets and switches, it's essential to understand how they differ from their close cousin, black nickel. Both finishes are incredibly stylish and can add a touch of sophistication to your interiors, but they cater to different tastes and aesthetics.
Matt Black: Matt black sockets and switches are all about understated elegance. Their smooth, non-reflective surface creates a sleek and minimalist look that blends seamlessly into modern interiors. Matt black fixtures are perfect for those who appreciate a clean and contemporary design.
Black Nickel: On the other hand, black nickel offers a slightly more glamorous and reflective surface compared to matt black. It exudes a subtle shine, making it a great choice for interiors with a touch of opulence. Black nickel fixtures can complement various decor styles, from classic to modern.
Ultimately, your choice between matt black and black nickel comes down to your personal style and the ambiance you want to create in your home.
What Decor Styles Work with Matt Black Sockets and Switches?
One of the standout features of matt black sockets and switches is their incredible versatility. They can seamlessly integrate into a variety of decor styles, adding a touch of sophistication and modernity. Here are some decor styles that pair exceptionally well with matt black fixtures:
1. Contemporary: If you're striving for a clean, sleek, and minimalist look, matt black sockets and switches are a perfect fit. They create a cohesive and uncluttered appearance that's synonymous with contemporary design.
2. Industrial: Matt black fixtures also blend effortlessly with industrial decor. Their rugged appearance complements exposed brick walls, metal accents, and raw materials commonly found in industrial-style interiors.
3. Scandinavian: In Scandinavian interiors, simplicity and functionality are key. Matt black sockets and switches offer a subtle contrast to the predominantly white and light color palettes, adding an element of visual interest without overwhelming the space.
4. Bohemian: For an eclectic and vibrant decor style, matt black fixtures can serve as an anchor amidst a tapestry of colours and patterns. They provide a touch of modernity to eclectic, hip, and contemporary stylised homes.
5. Monochrome: Monochrome interiors rely on a single color palette, often centered around black and white. Matt black sockets and switches seamlessly fit into this aesthetic, enhancing the overall harmony of the design.
6. Minimalist: Minimalism is all about decluttering and simplifying your living spaces. Matt black fixtures contribute to this ethos by offering a clean and unobtrusive design that doesn't distract from the overall minimalist ambiance.
What Is Matt Black?
Matt black is a finish characterized by its non-reflective, low-sheen surface. It achieves its unique texture through a process known as "powder coating." During this process, a dry powder is applied to the surface of the material, typically metal, and then baked at high temperatures to create a durable and matte finish.
The result is a sleek, velvety appearance that feels both modern and timeless. Matt black sockets and switches not only look great but also have a practical advantage: they are less likely to show fingerprints and smudges compared to glossier finishes.
What Is the Difference Between Matt Black and Gloss Black?
While both matt black and gloss black are stunning finishes, they cater to different design aesthetics and practical considerations. Here's a quick breakdown of the key differences between the two:
Appearance: Matt black has a soft, non-reflective surface that absorbs light, creating a velvety texture. In contrast, gloss black has a shiny, reflective surface that bounces light, creating a polished and glamorous look.
Durability: Matt black finishes are often more forgiving when it comes to hiding minor scratches and imperfections due to their matte texture. Gloss black, while stunning, may show scratches and scuffs more prominently.
Maintenance: Matt black fixtures are typically easier to maintain as they don't show fingerprints and smudges as readily as gloss black. Gloss black may require more frequent cleaning to maintain its pristine appearance.
Ambiance: Matt black creates a subdued, minimalist ambiance that's perfect for contemporary and industrial settings. Gloss black, on the other hand, adds a touch of luxury and sophistication, making it a great choice for upscale interiors.
In conclusion, when choosing between matt black and gloss black, consider the style you want to achieve and the level of maintenance you're comfortable with.
In the world of interior design, the right fixtures can elevate your space from ordinary to extraordinary. Matt black sockets and switches offer a unique combination of style, versatility, and practicality that makes them an excellent choice for eclectic, hip, and contemporary stylized homes. Whether you're aiming for a sleek minimalist look or want to complement a vibrant decor style, matt black fixtures can help you achieve your design goals. So, go ahead, transform your space, and embrace the understated elegance of matt black sockets and switches.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]In the world of interior design, the devil is in the details. Every tiny element contributes to the overall aesthetics of your space, and that includes even the most inconspicuous fixtures like sockets and switches. If you’re aiming for an eclectic, hip, and contemporary stylised home, there’s no better choice than matt black sockets and […]
Characterised by individuality and creativity, Bohemian style, or ‘Boho style’ is an unconventional design that celebrates a free-spirited approach to individual style. A crucial element to achieving a Boho style is tapping into cultural diversity and drawing inspiration from various cultures, eras, and artistic expressions.
In this blog, we will delve into the world of Bohemian interior design. We explore how you can incorporate lighting to create a balanced and harmonious Boho space.
The Foundations of Bohemian Style
First, we will highlight what is at the core of Bohemian style interior design. While similar to a minimalist rustic interior by utilising natural materials such as wood, wicker, and wool, Bohemian style differs in the way that it uses ‘thoughtful maximalism’ as the core to its design.
By layering intricate and oftentimes heavy pattern in items such as cushions or rugs, Boho style captures a rich and diverse range of colours and materials. It uses many contrasting colours and textures to create a bold yet cohesive space. Ceramic tiling with rich, vibrant patterning adds a wonderful effect when paired with a muted paint palette of greens, blues, and neutral beige.
Wicker plant pots, shelves, and even chairs bring another texture that works beautifully with leather or suede. Macrame wall hangings add an element of artisan craftmanship that further defines Boho style. This separates it from chic or minimalist spaces.
Now we understand more about the characteristics of Boho style, how can we incorporate lighting into this rich interior design?
Wicker
We’ve already touched on Wicker, and this is a great place to start when lighting a Bohemian styled home. Wicker the most popular material choice for boho lighting, it’s a fabulously versatile material, and it’s sustainable too! Wicker can be made into a variety of shapes and sizes with ease. Further, it can be easily dyed and painted, making it a great pick for Boho lighting.
Wood
In a similar stem, wood is a natural, versatile material that pairs perfectly with a Boho interior. A natural material that is able to easily be painted or left raw for a great natural alternative. Wood is a great option for Bohemian lighting.
Macrame
Macrame or cord lighting is a new and popular trend that perfectly suits a Boho interior. It's made with knots and twists, and available in a wide variety of different colours. Macrame shades offer a huge range of styles and colours for an ornate and layered Boho interior.
Glass
Glass shades and open bulbs are a perfect detail to add to a maximalist interior, providing an abundance of light output while providing a contrast in texture and material. This versatile material allows maximum light to flow around the room. Not only that, glass can be formed into many shapes, sizes, and textures, a versatile choice for a Boho space
And don’t feel limited to just one style of light. Boho style takes on a very eclectic approach and mixing and matching your lights is a great way style. Combine different textures and colours to create a cohesive lighting scheme, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different sizes or shapes.
Boho style embodies freedom and creativity, and by embracing hand-crafted textures, vibrant patterns, and natural materials, you can illuminate your home with inviting Bohemian lighting that transforms your space into a world of artistic exploration and creative beauty.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Characterised by individuality and creativity, Bohemian style, or ‘Boho style’ is an unconventional design that celebrates a free-spirited approach to individual style. A crucial element to achieving a Boho style is tapping into cultural diversity and drawing inspiration from various cultures, eras, and artistic expressions. In this blog, we will delve into the world of […]
A beautifully lit patio can transform your outdoor space into an inviting area to be enjoyed day or night. Whether you host evening gatherings, relax with a good book, or simply bask in the ambience of your garden, proper patio lighting is essential.
In this blog, we will outline the best types of light to make the most of your patio, and effectively light this important space to create the perfect ambience.
Types of Lighting
Before diving into installing your patio lights, you should consider the design of your patio. Does your patio have walls, or steps, or decking? These considerations will help you to decide the kinds of lights that will benefit this outdoor space, as well as how to enhance the lighting for your specific needs.
Wall Lights
Wall lights are the first option for anyone considering any outdoor lighting. And there is an abundance of styles available, from nautical, contemporary, to art deco. Wall lights provide wonderful overall lighting that allows you to create a welcoming atmosphere. This is useful for entertaining, cooking, or reading.
You can choose up and down lighting to add a new layer of light to your patio or select a more direct wall light that provides more illumination to your surroundings.
Deck and Floor Lights
Deck lights are an innovative way to light your patio. With their slim-line profile, these handy lights can blend seamlessly into decks to provide great ambient lighting, or guide lighting. These work brilliantly to up-light garden features as well as adding a great layer of light when paired with wall lights.
Step Lights
Much like deck lighting, step lights have a slim-line profile that allows them to blend into steps as guide lighting. Not only do these work as a layer of ambient light, but these handy lights are a great safety feature. Perfect to light up potential trip hazards such as stairs, slopes, or raised platforms.
Using step lights as accent lighting is a great way to create ambience and atmosphere on your patio. Great for entertaining or relaxing in the evening in a well-lit space.
Solar-Powered Lighting
For areas without easy access to electrical outlets, consider adding solar-powered lights to your patio. These lights are not only more environmentally friendly as they do not need to draw power from the mains, but they are easily movable. This means you can switch up the location whenever you like!
Spike Lights
Much like solar-powered lighting, a clever way to light your patio without installing lighting into walls is using spike lights. This brilliant solution means that you don’t need to wire in any lights, simply push these lights down into the soil of garden borders or plant pots for easy, adjustable lighting.
Direct upward to highlight garden features, and direct downward to provide beautiful, moveable guide lighting.
Bollards
Bollards are a great solution for patios that don’t have walls for wall lighting but provides light at a useful height for more overall illumination. Although typically used in commercial properties, there is a place for bollards in a garden or driveway, particularly modern and contemporary styled patios for a minimalist solution to balanced lighting.
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our Patio Lighting section to find the perfect light to complete your patio for an enchanting and functional space.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]A beautifully lit patio can transform your outdoor space into an inviting area to be enjoyed day or night. Whether you host evening gatherings, relax with a good book, or simply bask in the ambience of your garden, proper patio lighting is essential. In this blog, we will outline the best types of light to […]
With simplicity at its core, rustic design uses raw materials, natural textures, and muted tones to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Rustic design has gained popularity in recent years, walking hand in hand with sustainability with its emphasis on locally sourced, handcrafted materials, but finding the right sockets and switches can be a challenge.
Breaking up this design with white plastic only serves to draw the eye away from your carefully balanced design. However, making conscious choices about the kinds of sockets and switches that will help you to strike a balance between function and aesthetic, and even enhance your interior to create a cohesive design throughout.
The Basics of Rustic Interior Design
Inspired by rural and countryside settings, rustic design is inspired by a natural aesthetic, embracing raw materials and handcrafted simplicity.
Incorporating natural beauty in the form of roughly cut wood and natural materials such as suede, fur, and rough-spun cotton or wool into your design elicits a cosy atmosphere. Combining these rugged assets with a neutral colour palette of stone greys, beiges, and creams, you can achieve a harmonious rustic interior that evokes comfort and luxury.
Choosing the Right Finish
So, which sockets and switches go with a rustic interior? Time-worn metals offer their own unique appeal while bringing an industrial touch, and a socket and switch with a weathered finish will work best to keep the overall theme your rustic interior cohesive.
For the most weathered appearance, a finish like Vintage Brass works beautifully to strike a balance with dark woods and rough-spun fabrics for a cosy interior. This distressed finish elevates that authentic time-worn aesthetic perfectly, creating a wonderful rustic charm.
Consider contrasting this unique finish with a soft pebble paint to highlight your switches, or alternatively, pair with a darker colour to blend with the darker, cosier elements of your interior design.
A brighter finish can serve as an eye-catching focal point to really elevate your interior. Old Brass adds a vibrancy while still adhering to the rustic aesthetic. Using this finish infuses a rustic interior with a touch of subtle elegance, contrasting the raw wood and fabric details of the space.
One striking alternative worth considering for your rustic interior is Antique Copper. This sumptuous finish offers a brighter tone with a rich vibrant pinkish hue that works particularly well in rustic kitchens. Reminiscent of copperware pots and pans in period larders and pantries, Antique Copper transforms an interior to a rustic farmhouse aesthetic with ease, serving as an eye-catching finish that enhances the overall ambience of the home.
No matter the finish that you ultimately choose, rustic sockets and switches allow you to personalise your space according to your preference, be it rustic elegance or industrial chic. By choosing a time-worn finish that is cohesive to your interior, you can strike a balance to create a seamless flow throughout your space, achieving a harmonious and inviting atmosphere that reflects your personal style.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]With simplicity at its core, rustic design uses raw materials, natural textures, and muted tones to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Rustic design has gained popularity in recent years, walking hand in hand with sustainability with its emphasis on locally sourced, handcrafted materials, but finding the right sockets and switches can be a challenge. […]
The current cost of living crisis has us all looking for ways that we can save money, and one expense that is taking a particular toll on our wallets is our electricity bills. Lighting is an essential aspect of our lives, but it can also consume a significant amount of energy.
By implementing energy saving lighting solutions, we can not only save money on our electricity bills, but we can also make a positive impact on the environment in the process.
In this blog, we will explore several practical tips and tricks that can help lower your energy bills, as well as your carbon footprint.
Transition to LED Lights
One of the most effective ways to save money and energy in lighting is to switch from traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs to LED lights.
LEDs, or Light-emitting diodes consume significantly less energy while providing the same level of brightness as their older counterparts. LEDs are also much more durable and have a longer life span, making them a smarter choice all around. We have a large range of beautiful LED light bulbs to choose from.
Optimize Natural Lighting
Make the most of natural light during daylight hours by keeping windows unobstructed, using light-coloured curtains or blinds, and using mirrors to reflect as much natural light as possible.
Using natural light in place of artificial light not only cuts the cost of your energy bills, but also creates a pleasant and productive environment.
Install Dimmer Switches
Dimmer switches allow you to adjust the brightness of your lights according to your needs. Using a good quality dimmer with your LED bulbs can conserve energy while creating a cosy ambience.
Consider installing dimmer switches in living rooms, bedrooms, or dining areas, and keeping the light level low enough to see, but bright enough to avoid eye strain.
Utilise Task Lighting
Instead of relying solely on bright overhead lighting, add task lighting to any workspace for specific activities. Task lights such as desk lamps or under-cabinet lights direct light to a desired area, reducing the need for overall room lighting.
Embrace Motion Sensor and Timers
Motion sensor and timer-based lighting systems are ideal for areas that are frequently unoccupied or where lighting is only needed for short periods of time, automatically turning lights on as you move through a room or as part of a schedule, and switching off when the area is vacant.
These are especially effective in homes where forgetting to turn lights off is a common occurrence and eliminates the possibility of lights being left on unintentionally.
Cleaning Your Shades
Regular maintenance and cleaning of your lighting fixtures are essential for the best light output. Gathering dust can reduce light output on light shades and even bulbs, forcing you to turn up the brightness just to see.
Cleaning your fixtures and replacing outdated or inefficient bulbs will ensure maximum brightness while consuming less energy. Please clean lights safely and ensure you turn lights off at the mains before removing shades or bulbs, and do not allow any water to make contact with bulbs or wiring.
Making the switch to energy-efficient lighting is a simple yet impactful step toward reducing your energy bills. By following these tips, you can save money by reducing your energy consumption, and lower your carbon footprint in the process!
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]The current cost of living crisis has us all looking for ways that we can save money, and one expense that is taking a particular toll on our wallets is our electricity bills. Lighting is an essential aspect of our lives, but it can also consume a significant amount of energy. By implementing energy saving […]
When it comes to interior design, attention to detail is key. Every aspect of a space, no matter how small, contributes to the overall aesthetic.
One often overlooked element is the choice of sockets and switches, which can result in a missed opportunity to enhance your homes unique style. Opting for period sockets and switches can add a touch of elegance and charm to any interior design scheme.
In this blog post, we will explore the beauty and functionality of period style sockets and switches, and how they can elevate your home's interior.
Defining Period Style
Period style is associated with the architectural and decorative expressions of a broad historical era, typically ranging from the Georgian period through to Art deco, with each span of time bringing its own unique charm and character.
Soft, muted colours, white painted wood, and rich, flocked textiles are all common features in period styles spanning the era, and it is down to personal taste whether you choose a cosier ambience with warmer, richer colours and textures versus a bright and spacious design that relies on lighter colours to bring vibrancy to the room.
When choosing period style assets, it’s best to begin by considering the architectural design of your home and select designs that complement the overall theme. This attention to detail adds a touch of sophistication and authenticity to your interior.
Period Sockets and Switches Finishes
Period style sockets and switches are not simply one design. Depending on your interior there is a wide range of finishes to choose from, allowing you to find the perfect match for your design vision.
Pay attention to the overall colour palette, textures, and furnishings in your space, ensuring that the sockets and switches harmonize with the rest of the design elements. Use them as subtle accents or focal points, depending on your desired effect.
Brushed Brass
To complement a chic and luxurious interior, we recommend brushed brass. This classic choice pairs well with almost any wall colour, and offers a clean and bright touch, not to mention the brushed metal hides fingerprints particularly well!
Antique Brass
For a classic and elegant look, antique brass is a popular choice. This darker tone of metal works beautifully with rich interiors, blending seamlessly with dark woods and earthy wall colours. Not only is this brushed metal in a softer hue than its brighter counterpart, brushed brass, but it also does a fabulous job of hiding fingerprints.
Bronze Period Sockets and Switches
Bronze is popular choices, evoking a sense of elegance and luxury. Softer, and with an aged appearance, bronze is a wonderful addition that brings a real sense of authenticity to a period interior.
Antique Copper
Bringing vibrancy and depth, Antique Copper emulates well-used copper pots and pans, adding a stunning dimension that will enhance any period kitchen or pantry.
Vintage Brass
Vintage Brass is a dark and aged metal with a weathered patina transported through time from an authentic period home, a perfect choice for any period country house.
Old Brass Period Sockets and Switches
Boasting rich golden tones, the mature and well-worn patina of old brass brings time-worn warmth to spaces such as living rooms and bedrooms, pairing beautifully with rich patterns and colours.
Try mixing metals for an added touch of authenticity to these beautiful assets.
Toggles Vs Rocker Switches
Period style toggles can elevate the overall aesthetic of your space. Removing the contemporary style of a rocker switch and replacing it with intricate detailing, such as knurled and turned styles such as a Victorian toggle aligns more closely with a period interior ensures a cohesive look throughout your space.
Incorporating period sockets and switches into your interior design is a small but impactful way to add character and elegance to your space. By paying attention to the design and finishes, you can seamlessly integrate these functional elements into your overall aesthetic.
Feeling inspired? Check out our wide variety of sockets and switches, and find your perfect addition today!
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]When it comes to interior design, attention to detail is key. Every aspect of a space, no matter how small, contributes to the overall aesthetic. One often overlooked element is the choice of sockets and switches, which can result in a missed opportunity to enhance your homes unique style. Opting for period sockets and switches […]
Travelling can be complicated, there are so many things to keep in mind, but one of the most confusing topics is which types of sockets you need for the country you are travelling to. We all travel with things that need regular charging, phones, laptops, earbuds, and trying to figure out what sort of plug we need has always been a challenge.
Knowing the types is extremely important, particularly for safety, as some countries policies require a grounding pin in their sockets whereas some do not.
With so many sockets, and with some countries using multiple sockets as standard, we have kept our list simple, and focused on the most popular sockets worldwide.
Types of Sockets
- Type A is a two flat pin ungrounded socket with one pin slightly wider than the other to prevent being plugged in the wrong way. Some smaller volt plugs have equal size pins. Compatible with Type A plugs.
- Type B is similar to Type A but includes a grounding pin hole. Compatible with Type A and Type B plugs.
- Type C is a two round pin grounded socket. Compatible with Type C Plug.
- Type D is a three pin grounded socket used only in India, considered extremely unsafe due to uncovered pins.
- Type E is a two pin socket with a male grounding pin on the socket itself. This socket is compatible with Type E, Type C, and Type F plugs.
- Type F (Schuko) is a two pin socket with conductive clips at the top and bottom for grounding the plug. This socket also features clips at either side to secure larger plugs in place. Compatible with Type F, Type C, and Type E plugs.
- Type G is a regular three pin socket with a triangular formation, commonly used in the UK. The central pin is often an earthing pin for larger appliances.
- Type I is a three flat pin socket that can accommodate a two or three pin Type I plug. The two pin plug will be unground and the three pin will be grounded.
- Type L has three round slots in a row that are compatible with Type L Plugs. This socket is grounded.
Sockets by Country
USA and Canada - Type A and Type B
Australia and New Zealand - Type I
China - Type A, Type C, and Type I
Japan - Type A and Type B
India - Type D
Europe
With there being many countries within Europe that use their own combination of sockets, we have narrowed this list down to the most commonly visited countries.
France - Type C and Type E
Germany - Type C and Type F (Schuko)
Spain - Type C and Type F (Schuko)
Italy - Type C, Type F (Schuko), and Type L
Ireland - Type G
Iceland - Type C or F
Greece - Type F
Cyprus - Type G
Turkey - Type F
Croatia - Type F
Please ensure that you check all voltage and frequency requirements for each country, and each plug before use. These can vary significantly between countries and regions, and it is important to use plugs and sockets safely when travelling.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Travelling can be complicated, there are so many things to keep in mind, but one of the most confusing topics is which types of sockets you need for the country you are travelling to. We all travel with things that need regular charging, phones, laptops, earbuds, and trying to figure out what sort of plug […]
Whether your home contains cosy living spaces or a sprawling open floor plan, your home relies on lighting to create an inviting atmosphere. There are so many ways to use light to draw in ambience, and different fittings will influence how the light layers within each room.
You likely already have the locations of your ceiling or wall lights wired into your home, so unless you are undertaking a major refit, or perhaps overseeing your very own new build, chances are you will have to make do with the light placements you have. But no need to worry, with so many gorgeous lights to choose from, this won’t be a problem.
Both wall and ceiling light fixtures add style, but each have distinct differences that can affect how they are used, as well as change the effect they have on a room. So let’s explore the varieties of wall lights and ceiling lights, and which type of light will benefit different situations.
Ceiling Lights
Ceiling lights encompass a wide variety of styles and designs. Pendants can come in any size from ultra-modern, minimalist bulb holders to vast and impressive chandeliers, and everything in between. Whether used as a single statement piece or clustered together to make a full light display, ceiling lights really enhance your décor.
Ceiling mounted lights are a space saving option for lower ceilings or rooms with high surfaces. Perfect high traffic areas as well as bathrooms and utility rooms, this style of light sits flush to the ceiling and helps to avoid accidentally knocking or touching the light.
Spotlight bars are a great way to add a multitude of directional lights, great for task lighting or illuminating wall art or walkways. These handy lights are both functional and stylish, as well as being customisable for your space.
Downlights are the ultimate minimalist design, and with their recessed profile, as well as a large range of different finishes, downlights can pair with almost any interior design. Great for task lighting, downlights add a dimension of light to utility spaces such as kitchens and hallways.
Suspended designs such as pendants and chandeliers create a more formal aesthetic for the design conscious. With so many different styles, the pendant is by far the most popular choice for most rooms in the home. With shades made from wood, fabrics, metal, glass, leather, and plastic, a pendant can direct light, create patterns of light, or simply draw the eye to an impressive statement light display.
Wall Lights
While walls lights may not have quite as many options as ceiling lights, wall fixtures come in many stunning designs. Not just great space savers but also practical, serving as great task lighting for living rooms and bedrooms, particularly in rooms where wall space is ample.
Depending on the design that you choose, a wall light offers great background ambience and combined with ceiling lights, the humble wall light can add a dramatic light layering effect to any room.
Decorative wall lights such as lanterns and sconces are a gorgeous design feature that adds depth to a space, so consider a bulb that emits a warm light for these designs, or even a soft, decorative bulb that emits a lower light. This will enhance the ambience of your room while layering light to complement your more functional lighting.
Spotlights look incredible in pairs when framing a window, doorway, or a fireplace, and especially above bedside tables to replace a table lamp, not to mention clearing precious surface space. These handy lights can work as task lighting for a reading nook, or above a bedside table, and with the right bulb can create stunning layers of light. Consider using these to accentuate artworks or decorative wallpaper.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Whether your home contains cosy living spaces or a sprawling open floor plan, your home relies on lighting to create an inviting atmosphere. There are so many ways to use light to draw in ambience, and different fittings will influence how the light layers within each room. You likely already have the locations of your […]