Green pairs incredibly well with a multitude of colours. The colour has grown in popularity in recent years, with dark green being seen as a mature colour that bodes well in living rooms, kitchens and bedroom spaces.
Green works well as an accent colour or used as a pivotal colour in a room. In this article, we explore the colours that go well with green.
What Colours Go Well With Green?
Green is one of those versatile colours that depending on the shade can complement the right colours very well.
Green & White
The simplest colour combination that just can't be knocked is green and white. Crisp white provides a perfect backdrop for hues of green. Green can be incorporated with subtle accents through furnishings such as pillows, bedding, chairs and decorative ornaments. This fresh colour combination is well suited to contemporary homes.
Green & Brown
A subtle sage green has been a hot colour for kitchens in recent years. This hue of green pairs perfectly with natural wood and brown. You might typically get sage green cabinetry with natural wooden surfaces such as butcher block countertops. This is a very much country inspired colour combination that is perfect for neutral spaces.
Green & Pink
As they say, opposites attract and this couldn't be any more accurate for green and pink. For those with a bold appetite for interiors, this light and airy colour combination work incredibly well together when used correctly. Pink can be used as a powerful backdrop with a sea foam green used through furniture such as a velvet sofa or armchair. Whilst they're a bold pairing, when used correctly it can give a softer look to your ensemble.
Green & Navy Blue
Emerald green and navy blue are two deep hues that compliment each other well in an interior setting. This chic and stylish combo both accent and offset the other with their deep yet vibrant tones.
If you want to subtly illuminate your room, then this pair of colours will help to add depth and character to the space.
Green & Grey
Teaming grey with subtle accents of green helps to create an incredibly executive and suave look and feel. The best thing is that green can complement pretty much any shade of green. We see this colour combination very often in the corporate workwear space, owing to the fact that this is a very sophisticated and well put together colour match.
Green & Orange
Perhaps the boldest of them all, tangerine and fern green are out of the box colours that surprisngly aren't overwhelming when teamed together. You do need the right period of property for this pairing to work, but executed well and it can look sensational.
Green is a multi versatile colour that can go with practically every colour when you choose the right hue of green.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Green works well as an accent colour or used as a pivotal colour in a room. In this article, we explore the colours that go well with green.
Due to the advancement of technology, sockets have probably had one of the most sophisticated jumps in the power of delivering a fast charge to devices. Nowadays they can provide users with a much quicker charging time. Providing reliability and speed which is ultimately what everyone desires in their fast paced lives.
However, there are many current models of USB sockets on the market that do not deliver a fast charge. Furthermore, not all chargers do support the various standards. We explore what fast charge means and the new industry led USB C sockets breaking through the market.
What Is Fast Charge?
The output of a charge from a socket is measured in both amperage and voltage. Therefore, in order to boost a charge, manufacturers will usually boost the amperage, or vary the voltage to increase the amount of potential energy.
Fast charging devices will usually bump the voltage up 5V, 9V, 12V, 20V and beyond, or increase amperage to 5amp and above.
However, your device will ultimately decide how fast it charges as its charging circuit is designed for. The device needs to be compatible and up to date to take advantage of the fast charge functionality.
Check your devices to see what your phone supports, then look at your plug adapter to see if it supports the same standard. If you want to see whether your devices are benefitting from fast charge technology, there are many apps you can use on your phone to test it such as Ampere.
What Are USB C Sockets?
USB C sockets are the most up to date on the market, dynamically boosting the power delivery.
USB sockets feature 2 ports, a USB A port on one side and the USB C on the alternate side. The USB C port is where the magic happens. A standard USB A delivery is capped at around 3,100milliamp, whilst a USB C will deliver a much higher milliamp. The USB C can still deliver much lower demand if needed. If you use both of the ports at once (USB A and C), then this ampage will be shared across the devices.
Due to the USB C's ability to deliver a high output, it can charge modern laptops through it too. As previously mentioned, the device is what will determine the speed of the charge. The device needs to be compatible and up to date in order to take advantage of the functionality.
There isn't anything that will currently deliver much higher output than the USB C unless technology rapidly changes. As it stands, the conventional USB A port won't be able to keep up with the ever advancing technology of devices unless the technology of it changes.
The future of fast charging is with USB C sockets. Whilst providing efficient charging times, following the redundancy of bulky plugs for USB C charging it will eliminate waste from manufactures & households. Offering a universal solution that is reliable, effective and ultimately, quick.
Take a look at our brand new range of USB A + C sockets.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Due to the advancement of technology, sockets have probably had one of the most sophisticated jumps in the power of delivering a fast charge to devices. Nowadays they can provide users with a much quicker charging time. Providing reliability and speed which is ultimately what everyone desires in their fast paced lives. However, there are […]
Creating an effective lighting plan in your bathroom is of utmost importance. It's the one room that can warrant different levels of light during the day.
The lighting should be adaptable from bright task lighting for daily tasks such as shaving or applying makeup. Whilst providing ambient mood lighting for those relaxing moments. Striking the right balance is key to ensure you get the most out of your bathroom space.
Which Lights Are Best For The Bathroom?
There's lots of functional, and stylish bathroom lighting ideas to choose from. We explore the different best types of bathroom lighting that will allow you to enjoy the space whatever the need.
Downlights
Downlights are one of the most popular and best options for lighting a bathroom. They're functional, suitably IP rated and they can provide effective task lighting to suit your exacting requirements.
The bathroom comprises of different zones which highlights which areas are susceptible to moisture, and the likelihood of water being around the product.
Downlights and lights in general that are rated to IP 67 + are suitable for all zones in the bathroom, as they are total immersion proof. All other zones in the bathroom can be fitted with downlights which hold an IP45 + rating.
Tiltable downlights are a great choice for dotting around a mirror as they can provide effective task lighting when optimum light is required. Opting for high CRI downlights will provide accurate levels of lighting, allowing you to see the true representation of colour in your bathroom. For tasks such as applying makeup and shaving, this will make the task at hand so much easier.
Whilst you might need bright lighting during the day, you're more than likely going to want to set some ambient levels of lighting when you need downtime. This can easily be achieved by installing a dimmer switch, giving you control over the brightness of your lighting. You just need to ensure that your LED lights are dimmable to avoid compatibility issues.
Wall Lights
If you're looking to layer lighting in your bathroom, wall lights are an effective and ambient way to do this. They can also help add that decorative edge to a bathroom when used in conjunction with downlights or ceiling lights.
Wall lights are often used on either side of a mirror to create task lighting. The Sheraton brass Art Deco style wall light and Flaxman bulkhead wall lights are stunning fittings that would look fantastic in a bathroom. These robust wall lights are suitably IP rated for bathroom use too.
You might also choose to utilise wall lights around the room. This is effective when layering light and for creating an ambient space. Keeping the wall lights on or using them in conjunction with a dimmer switch to lower the levels of lighting to your needs.
What's The Best Colour Temperature of Bulbs For The Bathroom?
Once you've chosen your light fittings, don't fall down at the last hurdle. Choosing the right colour temperature for your bulb is particularly important if you have no natural lighting in your bathroom.
Whilst colour preferences are personal, i.e you might prefer a more orangey vintage glow to create ambience, or you might want super bright lighting for maximum precision. Generally speaking, the best colour temperature in the bathroom is anywhere between 2700K-3000K. This is a warmer and cosier light which people find familiar and comfortable.
However, as the role of the room changes during the day, the colour temperature you need may also change. In instances like this, our colour changing downlights are a fantastic choice. The Front Facing Colour Changing (CCT) Switch provides you with a choice of Warm White 3000K, Daylight 4000K and Cool White 6000K. With the dimmable settings, it puts you in complete control of your setup for whatever you require.
Take a look at our full range of downlights and bathroom lights to help you find the best bathroom lights for you.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]We explore the different types of lights that are best for the bathroom that will allow you to enjoy the space whatever the need.
As garden and outdoor gatherings are the new norm, there's never been a better time to select the best outdoor lighting for your space.
With a focus on practicality and aesthetics, we explore the best outdoor lighting fixtures that will illuminate your space throughout the seasons.
Wall Lights
Wall lights remain one of the most popular and best outdoor light fixtures due to their versatility and practicality. Depending on the outdoor space you have, you'll be able to find one of ample size to meet your exacting requirements.
As most wall lights are also mains powered, using LED lights with them will ensure that you can keep electricity costs low. Whilst helping the environment too. Solar powered lights are a popular choice in gardens but they do not provide light consistency throughout the seasons.
Marlborough Eyelid Bulkhead Nickel Wall Light
For a smaller space, the Marlborough is a fantastic choice as it can be fitted horizontally or vertically. Hand crafted in solid brass, the Marlborough eyelid bulkhead delivers the presence of a traditional nautical bulkhead. Yet when completed in a refined nickel finish its allure appeals to both the Art Deco and Contemporary eras.
This wall light is IP66 rated so it can be used on all exterior surfaces without risk of corrosion or damage. Available also in a brass finish.
Carlisle Lacquered Brass IP66 Web Prismatic Glass Wall Light
Practical, robust and aesthetically pleasing, the Carlisle is beautifully retro, with a nautical twist. Suitably IP rated for outdoor use, this light will provide a gorgeous glow in a garden. This robust unit will last for years to come. It would be a great investment for part of an outdoor lighting scheme.
Kemp Polished Solid Brass Nautical Wall Light
The Kemp is one of the best lighting choices for an outdoor space. Suited to a classical, industrial or nautical style of décor. This works as a sconce wall light and perfectly complements our Kemp Ceiling light. Ideal for layering light throughout a garden. A neat and compact light that can fit on the smallest exposed areas.
Hopkin Polished Solid Brass IP66 Prismatic Glass Wall Light
A real beauty, the Hopkin is a stunning lighting choice for an outdoor space. Offering full protection to the elements and a gorgeous glow. The etched glass and aged brass finish give this IP66 rated ceiling light a vintage style. Perfectly suited to industrial décor. The darkened finish on both the metal frame and glass cover give this light an antique appearance.
Ceiling Lights
This type of outdoor light is a fantastic option for your lighting scheme if you have minimal space available or no space on walls for lighting. Ceiling lights can be positioned on the under-hang of a garage, porch or house.
Kemp Polished Brass Ceiling Light
Ideal for using in tandem with the Kemp wall light, neat and stylish, these beautifully industrial, nautical style ceiling lights come with clear glass, perfect for Edison style decorative LED bulbs.
Take a look at our full range of outdoor lighting to find the best fixture for your space.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]As garden and outdoor gatherings are the new norm, there’s never been a better time to select the best outdoor lighting for your space.
Whether you have a small patio area or a large garden, adding outdoor lighting will help to lift and add character. Whilst offering versatility and practicality to the space.
To help get your garden summer ready and suitably lit for all the seasons, we take a look at the types of garden and outdoor lighting ideas for your home.
Outdoor Wall Lights
Incredibly popular in gardens, outdoor wall lights are a versatile and practical choice. Easy to install, they can be positioned on any exterior wall surface. Including on either side of a door to welcome your guests, whilst offering a practical safety feature.
Wall lights are available in a wide range of styles to suit your home decor tastes and styles. When selecting outdoor and garden lights, ensure that they are suitably IP rated for outdoor use.
The Flaxman wall light is a neat, rounded wall light that is ideal for so many spaces. Ideal for lighting doorways and walls around your garden. Also available in a nickel finish to suit your decor style.
If you're looking for something slightly larger to project light in your garden, the Carlisle Grid Prismatic Glass Lacquered Brass wall light is beautifully designed. A stunning, nautical addition to a space. You could dot a couple of these around your garden to create a flow of light.
For a timeless and classy look, the Kingly Nickel brings a classic motorcycle-esque look. Perfectly suited for outdoor use, and also works well in the bathroom.
If you lack wall space, the Marlborough is another great option, allowing you to position it horizontally or vertically. A sophisticated redesign of the original nautical bulkhead. Featuring thick prismatic glass and IP66 rating, this stunning wall light will lend understated grandeur to any outdoor space.
Ceiling Lights
These lights might be better suited to your outdoor lighting plan depending on what you want to achieve, and the surfaces available to you.
This type of light is ideal for placing under porches and garages, whilst providing practicality to the space.
These beautifully industrial, nautical style ceiling lights come with clear glass, perfect for Edison style decorative LED bulbs. They work well layering with other lighting sources such as wall lights for a cohesive plan.
Security Lights
Security lights or floodlights are down to personal choice but are a great way to provide lighting and security to the area.
There tends to be a compromise on style when it comes to floodlights, but there are many different options on the market. As floodlights produce a lot of light, they can wash out other sources of light. Do bear this in mind when choosing lights for your garden.
Downlights & Spotlights
These types of lights are fantastic for task lighting and creating a cohesive source of lighting. Spotlights are great for lighting pathways and outdoor areas. Downlights can be positioned under roofs and garages to illuminate at a higher level. As long as they are suitably rated for outdoor use, they make an excellent choice for outdoor lighting.
Solar Lighting
Solar lighting remains a popular choice for outdoor lighting as it can be relatively fuss free and does not require mains electricity.
Whilst this makes it a cheaper option, it does rely on adequate levels of sunlight during the day to work when it's dark. Therefore it is not the most reliable source of outdoor lighting.
Head to our full range of garden and outdoor lighting to get your garden summer ready.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]To help get your garden summer ready and suitably lit for all the seasons, we take a look at the types of garden and outdoor lighting ideas for your home.
Whether you're looking to refresh your garden space for Spring, or you're in the stages of a complete renovation, lighting is a key aspect to take into account when making changes to your outdoor space.
With the easing of lockdown and summer on the way, we can all breathe a sigh of relief that we'll be spending much more time outdoors, and in company.
To help you get your garden summer ready, we explore the different ways you can light your garden effectively.
Get The Correct IP Rated Lights
The first step to choosing lighting for your garden is to ensure they are suitably IP rated for outdoor use. If you are using lights under a covering such as a porch they need to be IP rated 44 +. For use in fully exposed areas, the lights need to be IP rated 66 +. This will ensure they are appropriately protected from dirt and moisture.
Plan Your Garden Lighting Design Early
If you are in the midst of a complete garden renovation, you should use this opportunity to plan your garden lighting design before the project has started. Most cabling will need to go under planting and hard landscaping. just like an interior renovation, you want to ensure you do everything at the right time so as not to cause problems and additional work further down the line.
Use A Combination of Light Sources
An easy way to add character and interest to a garden in a light scheme is by using a variety of different type lights. Use a combination to highlight texture, depth and drama in walls, fences, steps, patio edges, foliage, trees and water.
Think less is more, as you don't want to over light the area. You could use wall lights in conjunction with downlights to light a path or by using candles and lanterns to create further atmosphere.
Opt For LED Lighting
Where possible, opt for LED garden lighting. LED lighting is the most energy efficient light source. They'll help you save money whilst helping the environment around you too. Because they're energy efficient, they have a much longer lifespan than their halogen counterparts.
Security Lights
As we touched on in our post on types of outdoor lighting, security lights are a fantastic way to securely light your home, offering you peace of mind. However, you do need to be careful that they don't disrupt the rest of your lighting plan. Because floodlights are incredibly bright, they will normally wash out any other lighting in the vicinity.
There's nothing wrong with having an effective lighting setup and floodlights. But you might want to reconsider their positioning, and if they have time delays.
These tips should help you to effectively light your garden. Take a look at our full range of IP66 outdoor lights for more inspiration.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]To help you get your garden summer ready, we explore the different ways you can light your garden effectively.
Using your lighting scheme to create atmosphere is called 'mood lighting'. Traditionally this can be done in a number of ways which we will explore further in this blog.
With the rise in smart homes and app controlled lighting, mood lighting continues to be thrust into the spotlight and drawn on to create an atmospheric home.
As well as creating an atmosphere, different types of lights can evoke different moods. Mood lighting does become more of a strategic lighting strategy to reflect your daily needs and mood.
How To Create Mood Lighting
You don't need a smart home to create atmospheric mood lighting throughout your home. It can be added as an essential tier in your lighting design in a few different ways.
Dimmer Switch
Installing a dimmer switch is the easiest way to create atmosphere. Whether dimming your lighting after a taxing day, or getting ready for a relaxing evening in the living room to create the perfect mood.
They're one of the easiest ways to create mood lighting. They lower the light level of your main ceiling lights quickly and easily. When using LED bulbs, they do need to be dimmable bulbs to ensure they are compatible with the dimmer fitting. Additionally, the dimmer switch needs to be a trailing edge dimmer, suitable for LEDs.
Choose The Correct Colour Temperature of Bulbs
Selecting the right colour temperature of your bulbs will help to create the right mood in your room. With a smart home lighting setup you can choose light changing bulbs such as red, blue and green. Whilst these help to create specific ambiences, they don't complement traditional or vintage style decors.
A vintage style light bulb with a low colour temperature will help to create warmth. A warm sunset white (1800k) light bulb gives off an orangey glow. This creates a cosy intimacy, whilst keeping a vintage charm. A 2700K light bulb is the best colour temperature when you want to achieve a traditional, cosy-looking appearance (in your lounge for example). A higher colour temperature level (such as 4100k daylight LED bulbs) is a good option when you want that ultra-modern task lighting look, making it a perfect choice for your kitchen.
Light Fittings
Whilst the above will help, choosing specific light fittings in a layered lighting scheme will help to create that ambient space.
Traditional wall lights such as wall sconces and floor lamps are fantastic for illuminating specific spaces. This is a far better alternative to ceiling lights during times of the day when you want to relax and tone down the lighting. Perfect for a reading nook in a living room, a bedside table and a bathroom.
A more contemporary alternative which is not as visually intrusive is LED strip lighting. These strips can be installed underneath cabinetry and shelves to create visual impact.
Mood lighting is a fantastic strategy to implement into any home lighting scheme. It helps to create a relaxing and ambient home that you can control to reflect your daily needs.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Using your lighting scheme to create atmosphere is called ‘mood lighting’. Traditionally this can be done in a number of ways which we will explore further in this blog. With the rise in smart homes and app controlled lighting, mood lighting continues to be thrust into the spotlight and drawn on to create an atmospheric […]
It's important to keep the exterior of your property well lit for security purposes, practicality and style.
With summer on the way, it's the perfect opportunity to assess the lighting setup in your outdoor space and get it kitted out for those garden parties, and all year round use that will see you through to the dark nights in the winter.
We explore the different types of outdoor lighting to get your outdoor space, summer ready.
Outdoor Wall Lights
Wall lights for your exterior are a popular choice when it comes to an outdoor lighting scheme. They're usually decorative fittings that add more than just functionality.
One thing you want to ensure when purchasing your wall lights is that they are suitably IP rated in order to contend with the elements. If the lights are going to be fully exposed, they need to be rated at IP66 + which ensures that they are adequately sealed and protected from dirt and moisture. For areas under a covering such as a porch, an IP44+ rated wall light will be suitable.
Most wall lights are mains powered, but there are solar powered options available on the market.
Ceiling Lights
It may not be possible to use wall lights if you have limited space or only a garage on the exterior of your property. Ceiling lights are a great option because they can be placed anywhere there is overhang.
Again, you need to ensure that they are suitably IP rated for outdoor use. There are many stylish options for ceiling lights. The Kemp Polished Brass ceiling light is ideal for outdoor use. These beautifully industrial, nautical style ceiling lights come with clear glass, perfect for Edison style decorative LED bulbs. They're tough and durable, holding an IP66 rating.
Downlights
Downlights offer a streamlined and tidy finish to an exterior whilst providing a fantastic level of light.
Our GU10 downlights are IP66 rated so they are suitable for outdoor use. Ideal for lining a house, or underneath a garage and angled downwards. They could also be used to illuminate paths, gardens and driveways. They do omit a wider level of light than a standard light fixture so they're best used on larger areas.
As demonstrated below by Maciver Electrical Services who used our copper GU10 downlights to light this house.
Outdoor Floodlights
Outdoor floodlights are often used as security lights for the property which switch on when they detect movement via a sensor. Floodlights are incredibly bright so they will normally wash out any other lighting you have on in the vicinity. This is definitely worth bearing in mind when choosing the lighting for your outdoor space.
However, they can also be used in the ground to light up objects effectively. If you have a large tree or wall that you want to light up, a floodlight at the base of the feature might be more effective than a spotlight, due to the higher light output.
Lanterns & Fairy Lights
For a cosy outdoor space, you might want to opt for lanterns or fairy lights. They will provide more of a decorative light source but aren't necessarily the greatest source of light. These are usually an affordable option either solar or battery powered.
Our full range of outdoor and bathroom lights are now available online.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]We explore the different types of outdoor lighting to get your outdoor space, summer ready.
Whether you're in the process of an electrical overhaul or wanting to freshen up some of your electrical points, it can be overwhelming knowing what to choose, and what is best suited for your setup.
We explore the key considerations to take into account when choosing the right sockets for your home.
What Sockets Do I Need For A TV?
There are lots of different types and variations when it comes to TV points for a TV which all serve different purposes.
Coaxial Sockets
A coaxial socket is the most common TV socket for those with a traditional aerial setup. This type of outlet is most common for TV aerial connections, but is also commonly used for FM radio.
F Connector
An F connector module is used for a more secure connection to TV and satellite points. An F wall socket is the screw on threaded type connection that you will find on the rear of your satellite receiver. F types are almost exclusively used for satellite plugs & connections. Such as for your Sky & Freesat boxes and DAB radio.
Master or Slave Telephone Socket?
A master telephone socket is a necessary fixture for any home where you need an active telephone line. As the name suggests, this is a master telephone socket and it can replace the BT master in a home.
A slave telephone socket is only required if you need secondary telephone sockets in different locations in your house. You still need a master socket for the main line, and the additional locations should use a slave socket.
Traditional or USB Socket?
When it comes to the main plug sockets, a lot of it does come down to personal preference whether you opt for traditional or USB plug sockets.
USB ports offer style and practicality. The additional ports for charging expand the amount you can charge at one time, from one area.
It can make a charging area look much more streamlined when in use. USB sockets become particularly handy in rooms where there is limited space. They're great for offices, kitchens and living rooms.
13A or 5Amp?
13a sockets are the most common plug sockets for the home. These feature 3 holes, for regular UK plugs and come in one or two gang.
5amp sockets feature three round holes and do not fit regular UK electrical plugs. 5 amp sockets are used on the lighting circuit. This means they are switched on and off with the light switches in the room, rather than being used like regular plug sockets. They are designed for appliances that take less than a 5 amp current. For example, floor lamps, table lamps and fans.
Armed with everything you need to know before taking that next step, take a look at our full range of sockets for your next purchase.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Whether you’re in the process of an electrical overhaul or wanting to freshen up some of your electrical points, it can be overwhelming knowing what to choose, and what is best suited for your setup. We explore the key considerations to take into account when choosing the right sockets for your home. What Sockets Do […]
Black nickel is one of the most common and popular finishes for sockets and switches. It is often seen in modern or contemporary decors, and goes well with black TVs, picture frames, kettles and toasters.
What is black nickel finish?
Black nickel is nickel with a black tint. Regular polished nickel is mirror like, with a silvery tint, but black nickel shows a darker look. It is a black, reflective mirrored finish, and in some lights can look more like polished chrome or polished nickel. It differs in colour and texture to matt black, being shinier and a lighter shade.
Matt black finish looks different to black nickel, as matt black doesn’t look reflective, and simply looks like a normal black. Black nickel is more common on sockets, switches and downlights than black chrome, which gives off a slightly different tint. You can read more about the differences between black nickel and black chrome in our blog: Black Nickel Vs Black Chrome.
The Benefits of Black Nickel Socket & Switches
The main benefit is the appearance. Good quality black nickel switches can look absolutely stunning, can look great alongside black electrical items, and can really add a modern look to a room. The main negative of black nickel is that the shiny finish doesn’t cover up blemishes and fingerprints, so sockets and light switches often need to be cleaned.
What colours go well with black nickel?
Black is a fairly universal colour, so it can go well alongside most other colours, however the sophistication of black nickel makes it work well with whites, greys as well as rich, deep reds and blues.
Choosing the right range for you
Black nickel is a striking finish, that really adds style to any room, therefore a higher end range of sockets and switches is more likely to do it justice than a low-end range. As well as the appearance, it is also important to consider the size of the range. If you require a less common socket or switch that isn’t part of a range, you may need to mix and match from another range, which can look messy. Therefore, choosing a range with a lot in it is the best option in this case.
[related_products is_auto_added="1"]Black nickel is one of the most common and popular finishes for sockets and switches. It is often seen in modern or contemporary decors, and goes well with black TVs, picture frames, kettles and toasters. What is black nickel finish? Black nickel is nickel with a black tint. Regular polished nickel is mirror like, with […]