There are many metal finishes available that can help to both enhance the finish, offer protection to external elements and increase the overall durability of the product.
A galvanised finish is one of the most popular finishes to help retain the look of products. We explore exactly what it is and the benefits that it offers.
What Is Galvanised Finish?
A galvanised finish or galvanisation involves the process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron. There are two methods that this process can be done.
Hot dip galvanising is the most popular method. Galvanizers Association state that this follows a batch process in which prepared steel is immersed in molten zinc at around 450°C (galvanizing of fabricated articles in accordance with BS EN ISO 1461). The thickness and finish of this method can easily be checked without damaging the coating.
The second method is Continuous Galvanizing. The continuous hot dip galvanizing of steel strip (EN 10346), wire (EN 10244-2) and tube (EN 10240) involves passing through molten zinc in an automated plant.
The main purpose of a galvanised finish is to protect against corrosion and rust, bringing durability and longevity to the product.
What Are The Benefits of A Galvanised Finish?
A galvanised finish can bring many benefits to a product, especially the durability that it brings. An average coating thickness could protect a steel structure for up to 100 years.
Rust Protection
The finish will also work to protect from external elements producing rust. Whilst rust will eventually form, it will take a much longer time for the metal to rust than uncoated metal.
It's Reliable
Galvanising is a highly reliable form of corrosion protection. It forms a metallurgical bond during the galvanisation process which becomes part of the metal. Unlike other forms of corrosion protection, it is not just a chemical or mechanical bond. Additionally, as this process does not require cooling or reapplication, the galvanised finish protects the metal from day 1 and will last for years to come.
An Economic Option
Galvanisation is the most affordable option for coating, and protecting metal. It has the lowest overall cost compared to other coatings. A paint system was found to be 35% more expensive than hot dip galvanising.
Galvanised finish is an effective, reliable and cost effective option. Whilst it will continue working over the years, adding longevity to the product.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]We explore what a galvanised finish is on products, how this is done and the benefits of galavinsation.
Period light switches and sockets can play a pivotal design role in a home whilst they can help to keep the period authenticity running throughout homes of distinction. Both modern and contemporary homes can benefit from period switches, adding both quality and value to a home.
We explore different period light switches and sockets and what homes they are most suited to.
Brushed Brass Sockets & Switches
Brass is considered a fine, period finish for period styled and statement properties. It's all about 'Brass is the new black' due to its rising popularity as we see it littered through peoples homes on Instagram. Whilst brass is growing in popularity for homes of all distinctions, this metal is not a 'trend' as such. It is a timeless metal finish that will retain its authenticity and sophistication over time.
Generally speaking, brass is well suited to period homes such as Victorian, Arts & Crafts movement, mid-century modern and modern maximalism. In fact, it's a metal that really has stayed a constant throughout the eras.
Antique Brass Sockets & Switches
This aged metal finish has a timeless, and classic finish that makes a real statement. Antique brass is especially suited to period style decors including Georgian, Regency and Victorian homes.
The smooth appearance of antique brass is also well suited to modern homes or a minimal setting.
Polished Chrome Sockets & Switches
Polished chrome has always been the most popular choice of finish in a bathroom regardless of the age and period of property. Because of this, sockets and switches with a polished chrome finish offer universal appeal. This makes them widely suitable for different types of homes.
They are well suited to modern and contemporary styles, yet complement period styles such as Art Deco.
Brushed Chrome Sockets & Switches
Like polished chrome, brushed chrome is a versatile and timeless finish. This metal suits many different homes of distinction and both modern and classic styles.
Its unique finish and warm tone has the benefit of hiding fingerprints and small blemishes. Chrome remains a popular and standard metal throughout homes through kitchen taps and interior hardware details. These sockets and switches can seamlessly be incorporated into a home.
Black Nickel Sockets & Switches
Offering a slick appearance, black nickel works well with both modern and contemporary styles. A popular choice as it matches well with black appliances such as TVs and other black interior hardware detailing.
Our full range of black nickel light switches and sockets includes toggle switches which are perfect for more period styled properties, rocker switches and rocker and dimmer switch combos for increased flexibility over your lighting.
No matter the period and style of your property, period light switches and sockets can help to finish off the detailing in your home perfectly. Take a look at our full range of sockets and switches to find the perfect style and finish for your home.
Period light switches and sockets can play a pivotal design role in a home whilst they can help to keep the period authenticity running throughout homes of distinction. Both modern and contemporary homes can benefit from period switches, adding both quality and value to a home. We explore different period light switches and sockets and […]
Orange is a colour that we often associate with warmth, sunshine, joy and enthusiasm. Yet, it's a colour that regularly finds its way at the bottom of the pile.
Whilst it can be a bold, and scary colour to confront, orange should not just be an interior colour for the brave hearted. This gorgeous, warm colour can add depth and warmth to a space without having to use it in excess. We explore the different colours that compliment orange to help you use it successfully throughout your home.
What Colours Go With Orange?
Burnt Orange & Emerald Green
To create a high energy interior, mix burnt orange with emerald green. You should introduce a third colour, such as a warm white which could be used on the walls to create a neutral base.
Bringing in accent pieces of furniture, curtains and rugs in these two colours will create a playful and warm interior without being 'garish'.
Orange & Cobalt Blue
Cobalt blue is another regal colour that works so well with orange. Whilst they are directly opposite each other on the colour wheel, blue tones are a natural fit for orange.
Whilst they complement each other well, it's best to use these colours sparingly. You can use the two bold colours in small doses with cushions, a vase, rug, throw or any other decorative accessories you might find yourself drawn to.
Orange & Brown
These two earthy colours are a great colour match. This autumnal colour palette is one that can be enjoyed all year round. Introducing wooden furniture will help to set the tone, whilst pops of orange colour through furnishings will enrich and add warmth to the room.
A cream finish on the walls or floor will keep the focus on the warmth and richness of these colours.
Orange & White
Orange creates a playful front when combined with white. Bold orange is a stand out, but don't let it overpower the rest of the room. Keep accessories minimal and used accent furniture or decorative accessories to use orange sparingly throughout the space. Why not try White Metal sockets and switches for a bright and contemporary contrast?
Orange & Burgundy
Burgundy makes a cosy and companionable pair for orange. They are both bold colours that work better together than alone. Incorporating a third, neutral colour into the mix such as beige will avoid creating an overpowering space.
Let orange and burgundy work together through decorative accessories, furnishings and bedding.
Burnt Orange & Beige
This subtle colour combination, is warm, calming and cohesive. Whilst the colour scheme could be classed as autumnal, it's a rustic pairing that works well throughout the seasons. We know that orange, brown and beige are even more powerful as a trio, they all have earthy tones that remind us of Autumn and the beautiful, warm colours we see during this season.
With the right colours, orange can bring warmth and depth to spaces that other colours never will. If you're not convinced, try bringing the colour through in small doses until you're comfortable with it. Experiment, and most importantly, have fun with the colour!
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]We explore the different colours that compliment orange to help you use it successfully throughout your home.
In our last blog we explored multifaceted reflector bulbs which are part of a number of commonly used bulbs on the market. Another type you might be familiar with are GU10 bulbs.
GU10 bulbs are commonly used in domestic settings. You're likely to already have some of these fittings in your home. In this blog we discuss exactly what GU10 bulbs are and what they can be used for.
What Are GU10 Bulbs?
GU10 light bulbs are also known as MR bulbs due to their reflector in the unit which provides directional, controlled lighting. Because of this, these bulbs are designed to fit into downward lighting fixtures. The most popular being downlights.
The reflector in the unit of a GU10 bulb means that light can be dispersed in broad directions, this makes it a favourable choice when lighting overhead areas. Whilst downlights use this type of light bulb, they can be used in floodlighting too. The majority of these bulbs are of a similar size which makes them easy to replace and change when required.
The types of GU10s vary between both halogen and LED. Halogen bulbs have been in existence for the longest and provide great sources of light. However, they can become very hot during use and are a drain on your electricity. The UK government announced a ban on the sale of halogen bulbs which was effective from September 2021. The good news is that it is easy to make that switch to LED GU10 bulbs. They generate little heat and are far more energy efficient that their traditional counterparts. Additionally, GU10s will last much longer than halogens, whilst the initial investment of LED is slightly more expensive, it will save you more money over the lifetime of the bulb.
GU10 LED bulbs are a popular choice for the home as they fit many commonly used light fittings. They are energy efficient, easy to replace and provide great sources of directional lighting. Take a look at our range of GU10 downlights for some more inspiration.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]We explore GU10 bulbs – what GU10 bulbs are and what light fittings they can be used in throughout your home.
There are many different types of bulbs on the market that you might be familiar with. Spanning from LED, incandescent, halogen to GU10 to name, but a few.
MR Bulbs or multi faceted reflector bulbs are another type of bulb that are suitable for a number of different applications. We explore exactly what MR bulbs are and what they are used for.
What Are Multifaceted Reflector Bulbs?
Multifaceted reflector bulbs, also known as MR bulbs are a reflector housing format for halogen, LED and some fluorescent bulbs. However, LED MR bulbs are much more energy efficient than their counterparts, whilst being safer due to their reduced temperatures during use.
The MR bulb unit consists of a bulb with an integrated pressed glass reflector. It is this reflective coating that provides the directional lighting.
MR bulbs come in a variety of different shapes, sizes and outputs. Reflector bulbs fit into the same medium-based sockets as common incandescent bulbs.
What Are MR Bulbs Used For?
The purpose of the reflector is so it can control the direction and spread of light cast from the lamp. This offers many advantages where directional lighting is required. Because of this, MR bulbs are well suited to track lighting, flood lighting, recessed ceiling lighting, desk lamps, pendant lights, retail display lighting and bicycle helmet lights.
The highly concentrated directional light beam is cone shaped like, but it can be specified in a range of beam spreads from narrow spot to wide flood. This is what makes it so well suited to a number of different purposes from flood applications, to desk lamps. They provide unparalleled levels of light when required.
They offer more control than typical task lighting options in the home such as downlights, due to the ease of adjustment and direction with the reflector.
Take a look at our Elesi blog for more electrical tips and home inspiration.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]There are many different types of bulbs on the market that you might be familiar with. Spanning from LED, incandescent, halogen to GU10 to name, but a few. MR Bulbs or multi faceted reflector bulbs are another type of bulb that are suitable for a number of different applications. We explore exactly what MR bulbs […]
If you're in the process of an electric rewire, a new home build or just looking to refresh your current setup of sockets and switches, you might be wondering what the height for sockets and switches should be.
There are of course exceptions to recommended heights that will better meet with your requirements of certain fixtures. For example, you might have a pair of bedside lights and a switch installed next to your headboard. Or a kitchen island where you want a socket installed underneath the ledge for discretion. In this blog we explore what height sockets and switches should be in your home to guide you during installation.
What Height Should Sockets Be?
UK Building Regulations state that wall mounted sockets should be positioned to be easily reached in the given room. Whilst there are no specific regulations that need to be followed. As a general rule of thumb sockets should be installed at least 450mm to 1200mm from the floor. This is the standard height for sockets.
Of course, if the house has been adapted or requirements are different, then you may need to install the sockets at a different height.
This does not apply to sockets that are positioned above work surfaces such as in kitchens and home offices. In this instance there needs to be adequate clearance from appliances and water to minimise damage to the socket and cabling. There are no defined regulations for the height above work surfaces. Although, a clearance of 15cm below the socket as minimum is recommended.
For TV points, telephone points and doorbells, a max height of 1200mm from the floor is recommended. Of course, there will be exceptions to the height based on your requirements and rooms.
What Height Should Switches Be?
There are no specific regulations for light switch height. However, it is recommended that they are positioned at least 1200mm above floor level. Light switches should be placed at an easily reachable area, and at least 350mm away from room corners.
As a general rule of thumb they should be installed 48 to 52 inches above the floor. This provides a comfortable height for most people to reach a light switch when standing up. This can vary depending on the height of the individual. Also if a dwelling has been adapted to meet a persons specific needs, then the positioning of the light switches will need to be matched with this accordingly.
Switches that are placed above countertops or for bedside use will also differ based on the circumstances. If placed above a countertop such as in a kitchen, then there should be a clearance of at least 15cm below the switch.
If you’re in the process of an electric rewire, a new home build or just looking to refresh your current setup of sockets and switches, you might be wondering what the height for sockets and switches should be. There are of course exceptions to recommended heights that will better meet with your requirements of certain […]
When you were young, you most probably had the 'never touch sockets and switches with wet hands because it could electrocute you' instilled into you.
Because of this, there is a conception that the operation of lighting cannot be done from within the bathroom. Whilst there is a lot of truth in this, there are alternatives to installing light functionality into the bathroom.
Firstly, we take a look at why switches cannot come into contact with moisture, and why light switches cannot be installed in a bathroom.
Why It Is Not Safe To Touch Switches With Wet Hands
You should never touch switches or any other electrical appliances including sockets with wet hands. This is because a wet body can act as a good conductor of electricity which could cause a sizeable shock.
Are Light Switches Allowed In Bathrooms?
A bathroom is considered a special location for electrical installation. Mainly because of the increased risk of electrical shock it poses to users.
Bathrooms create high levels of condensation and humidity which turns into water vapour. Whilst water vapour can be classed as a weaker conductor of electricity, it will still come into contact with contaminants such as dust which contains many micro elements. These contaminants dissolve in water, creating the perfect foundations for a good conductor of electricity.
Touching the light switch, which is wet from condensed vapour, may cause an electric shock to the user. Even if the switch is not touched and exposed, electricity can still flow through from the electrical outlet through the water flowing down the wall to the floor onto which somebody could be standing.
To protect against this, traditional light switches should not be installed in a bathroom. Alternatively, they can be placed outside the bathroom or in a separate toilet depending on your setup.
Light Functionality In The Bathroom
Whilst light switches are strictly not allowed in bathrooms, a pull cord can be used in any location in the bathroom. Most favour in placing this by the door for ease. Whilst this is highly functional, many fear it will affect the aesthetic of their bathroom. In this case light switches can easily be installed and placed outside the entrance of the bathroom.
Always consult an electrician before undertaking electrical work in the bathroom to ensure you are complying with electrical regulations.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]We take a look at why switches cannot come into contact with moisture, and why light switches cannot be installed in a bathroom.
Pendant lights are a popular ceiling fitting, adding both practicality and style to a space. Traditionally a bulb with a lamp shade, they act as a diffuser of light, creating a pool of light below. They can be used to light a room or in conjunction with other light sources such as downlights and wall lights for task lighting purposes.
If you're looking to create a new lighting scheme in your home and not sure where to start, we discuss the best places to position your pendant lights.
Where To Place Pendant Lights?
Before placing your pendant lights it's important to consider what you want to achieve with the pendant lights. Is it purely to provide decorative purpose? Task Lighting? Also, it's worth taking into consideration natural light that is readily available in the room and how high the ceilings are. If you do not have access to high ceilings then pendant lights probably won't be the most suitable option for you.
Once you have decided on the above, it's time to decide where to place pendant lights!
Breakfast Bars & Kitchen Islands
One of the most popular places to position pendant lights is above a breakfast bar in a kitchen. When it comes to the amount of pendant lights over a kitchen island, odd is best, particularly a row of three. Why? Generally, an odd number of pendants look better than even numbers. The odd number of pendants allows the space around the lights, to frame each pendant. Whereas, even number of lights compete and divide the space.
A breakfast bar opens up a kitchen and 3 pendant lights help to create a light, social and airy space, whilst providing task lighting for activities that need it. It becomes a perfect space that can double up for many different tasks.
Landing/Stairwell
For the right space, a pendant light can look incredibly striking on a landing or stairwell. It's important to think about the proportions of the space, a high ceilinged, large stairwell could hold a large pendant light, whilst a small pendant light would look out of place and look more intrusive than a large pendant.
Pendant lights work best with a considerable amount of drop, this is why they look so effective in stairwells. However, if you have a low ceiling it isn't to say that you couldn't also use a pendant light there. A small pendant with a minimal drop would still look well suited to the space.
Bedroom
For a high ceilinged room, pendant lights are a great addition to a bedroom. Installing a dimmer switch with a pendant light will allow you to adjust the lighting to suit your mood. They add much more decorative style to a room too as opposed to downlights. If you need further pockets of light for task lighting you could use a table lamp, wall lights or downlights in the specified area without impacting the light in the rest of the room.
Living Room
A classic placement of pendant lights is in a living room. With homes of period authenticity a pendant light can help to keep that charm running throughout, especially if original ceiling roses are still intact.
Most pendant lights drop can be shortened so they work well with both high and low ceilings.
Pendant lights can be an adaptable light source for most rooms in the house with the right proportions. Take a look at our full range of pendant lights to find the right fitting for your space.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Pendant lights are a popular ceiling fitting, adding both practicality and style to a space. Traditionally a bulb with a lamp shade, they act as a diffuser of light, creating a pool of light below. They can be used to light a room or in conjunction with other light sources such as downlights and wall […]
Lighting serves a much deeper purpose than enabling us to see well. It has the ability to affect our moods both positively, and negatively. A cosy, warming light can create a relaxing and happy space. Dimly lit rooms can cause low mood and even affect your productivity.
It's incredibly important to get your lighting right so you create the setting, and ambience that you desire. In this blog we discuss ambient lighting and how to achieve the desired lighting in your home.
What Is Ambient Lighting?
Ambient lighting otherwise known as mood lighting involves using colour, temperature and brightness to create a comfortable amount of light throughout for an ambient space. Ambient lighting is usually created with a mixture of lights through a layered lighting scheme. This includes downlights, wall lights and pendant lights.
There are many benefits of employing ambient lighting in your home. It will help you to see clearly throughout the day, whilst dimming the lights during the evening creates that cosy and relaxing atmosphere to help you wind down.
How To Create Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting is the perfect formula of placement, light source, brightness and style to suit your home and desired look.
Choosing The Right Placement
When planning your room the first thing you need to consider is where the lights are going to be placed. What might seem practical during the day might not be so practical in the evening.
Assessing how dark areas of the room are at certain times of the day will help you to plan your lighting scheme accordingly. Balance is also a key factor in getting ambient lighting right. Lighting the darkest corner of a room the most will make the room unbalanced. Think of lighting that will distribute even amounts of lighting throughout the room. Then you can bring in additional light sources to create further pockets of light.
Choosing The Right Lights
Having a layered lighting scheme enables you to add in accent lighting pieces which meld with the interior of your home. In a living room, you might choose to have a pendant light with wall lights, or table lamps dotted towards the back of the room. Wall lights are great for use in the evening as they still provide adequate levels of light whilst not overpowering the room.
However, it's all about choosing the right lights for your purposes. If the room is used throughout the day for work or activities then you might want to use a combination of downlights so they can be used for task lighting during the day, and introduce wall lights to create a different intensity of light during the evening. Alternatively, you could wire the set of downlights with a dimmer switch so the intensity of light can be adjusted as the role of the room changes throughout the day.
Dimmer Switch
Finally, installing a dimmer switch puts you in control of the level of lighting. The level of brightness required will differ during the day, with lower levels desired in the evening to stimulate relaxation. You can create the perfect intensity of light with a dimmer switch, dimming it down to create that mellow and warming ambience when required.
Ambient lighting is a fantastic addition to any home when implemented correctly. It's all about precision planning to decide what will work best for your space. If you're looking to create ambient lighting in your home, you might also enjoy our blog on Mood Lighting.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Lighting serves a much deeper purpose than enabling us to see well. It has the ability to affect our moods both positively, and negatively. A cosy, warming light can create a relaxing and happy space. Dimly lit rooms can cause low mood and even affect your productivity. It’s incredibly important to get your lighting right […]
Green has often been a colour that people shy away from in their interiors, but olive green is one that continues to become a popular hue in the home. Providing a great accent colour throughout the home, it is commonly used on doors, panelling, feature walls and through furnishings. It really is the perfect colour that works well in most rooms. It also helps to nod towards that sustainable, eco-friendly ethos.
So, what colour is olive green exactly? Olive green is exactly that, it takes its name from the colour of unripe or green olives, and is a warm yellowish-green shade, as opposed to the cooler tone of sage green that holds hints of grey-blue.
What Colours Go With Olive Green?
To help you use this colour in your own home, we explore the colour wheel to find out which colours work best with olive green to help you seamlessly incorporate it into your space.
Olive Green & Tan
Tan and natural wood tones work exceptionally well with olive green as it provides a neutral, and uncomplicated pairing.
This colour scheme works well with mid-century modern design. Introducing natural elements through furniture will help to tie this look together. Try pairing an olive green feature wall with wood dining tables or coffee tables for a stylish aesthetic.
Olive Green & Blue
Whilst olive green is a great neutral colour to work with, olive is a warm colour in its undertone which means it works well with other warm colours.
Warm shades of blues such as cobalt blue are an ideal match for olive green. It's best not to let these colours fight for space and either use both of them as accents to complement one another through the home, such as on panelling and home furnishes or use one as more of a dominant colour to work from. Perfect for a vibrant living room.
Olive Green & Beige
As two neutral colours, olive green and beige are a match made in heaven for the interiors. A popular colour combination in kitchens, with olive green cabinetry and beige worktops or surrounds.
You could even incorporate a third complementary colour into the mix such as tan or natural elements, as they are all earthy neutrals.
Olive Green & Pink
Trust us on this one! Olive green and blush pink are complimentary colours, it especially looks good with softer shades of pink.
For a bedroom, pair blush pink and olive green in the room's accents such as pillows, bedding, rugs or curtains. Alternatively, you could have feature panelling behind the wall in olive green and dress the room with blush pink.
Olive Green & Gold
If you're looking to create a regal, luxurious looking room then that can wholeheartedly be created by combining both olive green and gold. They are both warm colours which create such a luxe, and elegant space.
Gold can easily be woven through the home by way of decor, furnishings and interior hardware. Brushed Brass sockets and switches contrast beautifully with olive green, making the brass pop.
Olive Green & White
A fail safe combination that always works. These two colours create such a harmonious and relaxing space. It's best to keep the foundations of the room white and build up the warmth of the room with accents of olive green. Bringing greenery into the room will also help to add to that tranquil ambience.
Olive green is a colour that is set to stay in our interiors. An incredibly earth warming and gorgeous neutral that works so well with a multitude of patterns and shades.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]To help you use this colour in your own home, we explore the colours that go best with olive green to help you incorporate it into your space seamlessly.