In recent years, chandeliers have been all the rage. They’ve popped in rooms all over the home from bathrooms to dining rooms to walk-in closets. In 2012, the newest trend for chandeliers is the look of a dark glossy or lacquered black finish. These light fixtures come in a variety of styles, but the finish is always the same, which gives it a unique look. Here’s the low down on this home lighting trend for 2012.

All About Black Chandeliers

It can be difficult to find the right chandelier or any type of light fixture for any given space in your home. Chandeliers and chandelettes are a safe choice, even if you choose a trendy look, because these light fixtures have been around for hundreds of years and continue to come back year after year as a look for everyone. In fact, there are chandeliers to match just about any taste, so it’s unlikely that you won’t find the right chandelier for your home. With this in mind, you may find yourself considering one of the trendier looks.

Black chandeliers, black wall sconces and other light fixtures that feature a glossy black or lacquered black finish can be the perfect addition to any space. This is because not only is black a neutral color, but it looks good with every different style or shape.

Some of the trendier looks involve a classic chandelier shape with elegant scrolling arms, candelabra style lights, clear crystals and a crisp glossy black finish. These particular light fixtures suit a wide array of spaces from dining rooms to bedrooms, making them extremely versatile.

Another trendy look is the use of laser cut plastic or metal designs finished in a crisp black hue. These tend to look more on the modern side, even if the design is that of a classic chandelier shape. Keep an eye out for these light fixtures in exaggerated forms and Baroque inspired looks, as these are looks that are likely to remain trendy for a few more years before giving way to the next look in chandelier trends.

Rectangular chandeliers with large black shades, silver finishes and clear crystals are also particularly trendy currently. These light fixtures are perfect for the contemporary style, as they compliment a variety of looks and color schemes. Furthermore, they are ideal if you have an elongated rectangular dining table or kitchen island. However, they may not work as well for other spaces in the home, so keep this in mind.

Black chandeliers are not a new trend. In fact, they’ve come and gone several times over the last few decades, so don’t be afraid to invest in this trend. Even if it’s “out” for a year, it will be back “in” the next, so you’ll never truly be out of touch with the design world, nor will you be out of touch with the world of trendy light fixtures.
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Go here to see more beautiful black chandeliers.

In 2012, people are still finding ways to cut back in their lifestyles. Sometimes this means using coupons but sometimes it means cutting back on the interior design of their home. This can mean a number of things, though typically it translates into a more minimalist look for the modern home of today. Here’s are a few things to consider when looking at minimalist style light fixtures and table lamps.

What is Minimalist Style?

The minimalist style, or minimalism, is a look in which the item (in this instance, a light fixture) is free of unnecessary or frivolous decor. For example, there may not be any trim around the edge of the light fixture, no decorative details around the base, no finial attached and so forth. Instead, the light fixture would feature clean lines or fluid lines and coordinating clean finishes.

However, with this in mind, the light fixture may feature a bright color as it’s “clean” finish. With minimalist style, this simply means that there are one, maybe two colors on the entire item. This is especially true of light fixtures. For example, a pendant light may feature a clean brushed nickel finish on the body of the fixture, with a clean satin with glass shade. Nothing more, nothing less.

In other words, this style is the epitome of the old saying: “less is more.”

What are the Pros and Cons of Minimalist Style Light Fixtures?

As always, there are a number of pros and cons for this particular style. One of the benefits of minimalist style light fixtures is that it can easily be used to highlight other focal points in the home, such as artwork or a sculpture. Minimalist style lights are great for those who are looking to keep the focus on the decor of their home, rather than drawing attention to the light fixture itself.

Minimalist style light fixtures can also help make a space feel more clean and sophisticated. Many people feel that some of the trendier light fixtures, such as chandeliers, create a look that is too cluttered and visually overwhelming. This translates into a space that also looks cluttered or visually overwhelming, which of course is a huge negative in interior design.

Of course, many people feel that minimalist style light fixtures detract from the overall value and appeal of a home. They may not look right with the home’s architectural style or, when paired with other minimalist style, they may look bland and dated.

In the end, the only person who can decide if a minimalist style light fixture is right for their home is the person decorating it. Remember that in most instances, light fixtures are easy to replace, so if you don’t like the fixture once it’s up, don’t be afraid to try something else instead. Minimalist style light fixtures work for some homes, but they’re certainly not for everyone. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Don’t forget to stop by Arcadian Lighting to view see more light fixtures here!

Today we are pleased to spotlight Chicago based design firm, Jetset Designs. They were contacted for their interior design services by a client renting an apartment in Chicago’s Ravenswood neighborhood. The client’s decor consisted of  hand-me-downs, slip-covered chairs in the living room, no dining room furniture, and a small budget. Despite all of these limitations, the ingenious individuals at Jetset Designs were able to transform this apartment into something as elegant as it is livable.

Enjoy as we take a stroll through this stunning transformation!

In the living room, a dated color scheme of purple and cranberry were traded for a vibrant orange, designed to extract the warmth of the hardwood floors and coordinate with the beige walls in the dining room. The seating area, arranged to make the fireplace the focal point, consists of a mid-century sofa, two custom upholstered cream chairs with a chocolate floral motif, a reused ottoman doubling as a coffee table, a contemporary chain link end table with turquoise pineapple lamp, and lastly, a beige shag rug to tie it all together.

The bold contrast between the patterned chairs and bright wall color provide a refreshing ambiance.

The chocolate floral motif makes a statement without being too garish.

The chain link end table enhances the warmth of the orange wall and hardwood floor.

In the dining room, an expandable dining table and a buffet add a mid-century feel that work very well in this vintage space. The mismatched dining chairs in beige and floral, the clients’ existing artwork, and a colorful runner rug add a much needed pop of color to the existing beige walls.

The floral patterns provide the apartment with a unifying theme.

The beige chair helps coordinate the dining room’s overall aesthetic.

Abstract artwork and colorful vases add a touch of color to the beige wall.

Jetset Designs use of space planning, color, pattern, texture, and scale coupled with the reuse of existing furniture, artwork, and accessories allowed them to stay within budget and still give the client space that “wow” factor.

Go here to check out more great work by Jetset Designs and be sure to “like” them on their Facebook page!

If a room in your home needs new life, why not try the vibrant, exciting color combination of pink and teal? Both of these colors are complementary to each other, and represent romance, playfulness and lively sophistication. If you’re not feeling quite so bold, try mixing in a few accent pieces with your existing décor. I hope you enjoy these colorful rooms and vibrant table lamps!

This particularly modern and sophisticated living room feels fresh and bubbly courtesy of brilliant pink curtains and varying shades of light teal. White and gold accents help balance the color scheme.

A hot pink chair and beautiful teal lamp make this simple guest room vanity fun and eye-catching. The stunning color combo really gives this space life.

Intricate patterns cover almost every surface in this bedroom, but varying shades of teal make everything cohesive, rather than overwhelming. The bold pink chinoserie patterned blanket is so feminine and bright.

An eclectic mix of old and new make this vibrant dining room fun and funky. A gorgeous dark teal wall color helps brighten the pink curtains and accessories. I love the unique ceiling light.

An easy way to incorporate a new color into a room’s color scheme is by adding bouquets or potted flowers. The single branch of orchids with the softest shade of pink becomes a striking focal point in this dark teal and green bedroom.

Shimmering, reflective fabrics and accents give this bedroom a perfectly luxurious atmosphere. The rich teal and pink take on an emerald quality against the white furniture.

The faded quality of the teal walls and pink blankets in this room give it a warm, vintage feel. The graphic patterened ceiling is an unique accent.

The velvet and fur fabric in this glamorous bedroom add to the fun, adventurous atmosphere. The brilliant chandelier and zigzag rug add a modern twist.

What do you think of this energetic color combination? For more color inspirations and light fixtures, be sure to stop by the Arcadian Lighting website!

Lighting is important, especially when it comes to interior design. If you have poor lighting then you have a poorly designed room, everything else is secondary. The difference between good lighting and bad lighting is substantial. Comfort, happiness and productivity are all characteristics that improve with good lighting. Stores even see an increase in sales if they invest in better lighting. Lighting can also be expensive, almost half of all the electricity consumed in the United States goes towards lighting. Thankfully, there are many lighting options out there that can help you save some money and have the added benefit of being better for the environment.

The most energy efficient choice someone can make is to not use any energy to begin with.  Consider using the greatest light source in the world (The Sun) to help light your home. Things like windows and skylights are great ways to utilize natural light for your indoor spaces.

Switching from incandescent light bulbs to compact florescent bulbs (CFLs) is another great way to consume less energy. CFLs use about a quarter of the energy and last ten times longer than incandescent bulbs do. CFLs also produce less heat, which makes them safer to handle.

LEDs or light emitting diodes are the future of lighting. When compared to a CFL an LED uses 85% less energy and lasts over 100,000 hours. The issue with LEDs at the moment is the cost.  But that is always the issue with new technologies, once upon a time a VCR cost $500. As the LED industry expands, the price will drop accordingly.

It may not be as practical as some of the other choices, but fiber optic wallpaper is an ingenious way to add a hint of energy efficient accent lighting to your home. Fiber optic wallpaper is the invention of Swedish interior designer Camilla Diedrich.

Regardless of the type of light fixtures you may have, the most eco-friendly thing you can do is turn off a light that you are not using.  No need to be wasteful, its a simple step that everyone can do and it doesn’t hurt that doing so will result in the saving of money and the environment. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

They may not have fiber optic wall paper, but Arcadian Lighting does have plenty of energy efficient light fixtures to choose from. Go see for yourself.

Crystal Chandeliers have been around for centuries, so it’s a safe bet if you’re looking to add some flair to your home. Of course, not all of these light fixtures are considered trendy, despite having been around for so long. Here’s the low down on some of the trendier looks for chandeliers in 2012.

A New Take on Traditional Styled Chandeliers

Of the trendiest looks this year is the use of chandeliers (and other light fixtures) that feature traditional details and styling but with a modern twist. For example, a traditional styled chandelier but with a bright fuchsia pink finish instead of a brass finish. This trend also includes ceiling lights and chandeliers that feature the traditional but grand style finished in black, white and adorned with colorful (or clear) crystals. These looks are extremely trendy and with so many different options out there, it’s extremely easy to find the right light fixture to suit your particular space and interior design style.

Shabby Chic Chandeliers

Chandeliers that feature surprisingly adorable little shades on each one of the individual candelabra lights are especially trendy in 2012. These look great in kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, guest rooms, dining rooms and beyond. In fact, there isn’t a room that wouldn’t be complimented by this particular look. Furthermore, these light fixtures come in a variety of colors and styles, so you don’t have to have a shabby chic styled room to enjoy one of these light fixtures.

Chandelettes

Mini or smaller versions of the chandelier are also extremely trendy. These particular light fixtures, no matter what style, color or shape they’re in, are popping up in rooms all over the country. These are great because not only are they just as beautiful as their full-sized counterparts, but they can be the perfect addition to smaller rooms in the home such as a bathroom or even a walk-in closet.

Chandelettes are also ideal because you can pair two smaller ones for a more dramatic look. Have a large kitchen island? Consider using two smaller chandelettes versus a large chandelier, pendant lights or even an island light, as chandelettes will make more of a visual impact. This can also be applied to large dining tables or even large rooms where you need a more even spread of light but also a more visually appealing look.

Ultra Modern or Contemporary Chandeliers

Finally, the last of the big trends for 2012 is the use of ultra modern or contemporary styled chandeliers. These include light fixtures that may not look like the typical “chandelier.” For example, a cluster of globe bulbs can be considered a chandelier, despite the fact that it does not in any way look like a traditional chandelier.

Other ultra modern or contemporary looks include laser cut chandeliers, chandeliers that seem to mimic the look of flowers such as hydrangeas, blown glass chandeliers, and chandeliers that feature drum shade covers. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Come check out more light fixtures here!

Resin lamps themselves are not a new concept, but they are growing significantly in popularity in recent years. In 2012, you can expect to see an increase in resin lamps on the market, as these light fixtures have proven themselves to be extremely versatile in both style, size and shape. Here’s the low down on resin lamps in 2012.

 What is Resin?

Resin can be either natural or synthetic, though with lighting fixtures, a synthetic variety tends to be more commonly used as natural resins can be extremely flammable. Synthetic or artificial resins are more versatile in the respect that they can be colored various hues; whereas natural resins tend to have a natural brown or amber coloring to them that is difficult to remove or recolor.

Synthetic resins can be used to create molds, which are perfect for creating bases for lamps and other light fixtures. Synthetic resins are also safer and easier to cure or stabilize, which is ideal for production, especially when it comes to light fixtures.

Resin Lamps and other Resin Light Fixtures

Resin lamps typically feature a traditional shape or style but the look of the resin mold gives it a modern, updated look. Urn shapes, which are popular with the traditional style of decor, are particularly popular with resin lamps. These resin lamps come in a wide array of colors from aquamarine to mustard yellow and everything in between.

As with any trend, there are certain colors that are more popular than others. With resin lamps, look for hues such as tangerine, mustard yellow, plum purple and various shades of gray, which are also popular if you’re looking for a more neutral but still modern styled set of resin lamps. Other popular colors to keep an eye out for include aquamarine, grass green and poppy red.

Of course, it should be no surprise that resin isn’t just popping up in the world of table lamps. Resin light fixtures are everywhere from chandeliers (or chandelettes) to wall sconces and everything in between. With this in mind, recognize that resin is a widely used material and it comes in a wide array of looks. For the trendiest looks, you’ll want to opt for resin lamps and other light fixtures that feature a somewhat see-through, more translucent or transparent.

While resin itself won’t go away any time soon, the trend in which colorful but translucent table lamps and other light fixtures are popular will only stick around for a limited time. This trendy look is great for children’s rooms, bedrooms and other spaces in the home that need a touch of whimsy or color. If you’re looking to update your lamps, consider a set of resin lamps for your space. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Feeling inspired? Go check out our vast selection of pendant lights here and many other types of lighting fixtures.

If you’re contemplating updating any space in your home, you’re probably wondering what the latest and greatest trends are in lighting and light fixtures. Knowing the trends can help you choose light fixtures that not only suit your space, but will give your home a more updated look. Here’s the low down on the top 5 trendiest looks for light fixtures in 2012.

Light Hues

For various light fixtures, from table lamps to chandeliers, lighter tones and hues are particularly popular in 2012. This includes hues such as grays and other neutrals, as well as naturals and pastels. This can apply to the finishes of various light fixtures, the bases or the shades. A perfect example of this trend would be a set of lamps may feature a pastel colored base with natural linen lamp shades.

If It Ain’t Baroque…

Baroque is a relatively new revival style in which exaggerated shapes and forms from the Baroque period (starting around the 1600s) have been reinvented with a modern flair to suit today’s needs. This style has been affecting light fixtures of all kinds from chandeliers to lamps to wall sconces to pendant lights and beyond. This style also features a plethora of shapes, sizes and colors, making it a surprisingly versatile look.

Crystals

In the contemporary world, crystals have reemerged and are reigning supreme. They’re being found on just about every light fixture from table lamps to wall sconces to ceiling fixtures and of course, on chandeliers. When opting for a crystal light fixture, choose one with clean lines and modern styling, as these looks will last for years to come, even when the surge in popularity dies down.

Nature Inspired Lights

Though not quite readily available to the majority of markets, nature inspired lights are growing significantly in popularity. This style typically refers to light fixtures that mimic the look of various nature-inspired elements, such as a bouquet of flowers or trees. Though this look is beautiful, it can be quite expensive and furthermore, somewhat difficult to find. However, it is also worth noting that this trend can also refer to more contemporary looks. For example, a set of table lamps whose bases mimic the look of a tree or branch paired with contemporary styled drum shades made from a linen fabric.

Wall Sconces

Finally, wall sconces are another trend that is reemerging on the scene. These light fixtures are great for many reasons: first, in a small space, wall sconces can take the place of floor or table lamps, thus saving valuable floor or table space. Secondly, they’re surprisingly easy to install and not all require hard-wiring. Furthermore, they come in a large variety of styles, shapes and sizes so you can find wall sconces to suit just about any space desired.

These are just a few of the many different lighting trends out there. Chances are, if you are looking to update your home’s lighting, there is a trend out there that will suit not only your needs and your budget, but also your style. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Turn your design ideas into a reality, browse through our selection of kitchen lights. With thousands to choose from you are bound to find one that fits both your style and budget.

“Be a Fan to Win One” Sweepstakes!

We are excited to announce that our partner Casablanca Fan Company and its sister company, Hunter are now both members of the Facebook community. To celebrate this, we are happy to announce their first Facebook sweepstakes:  ”Be a Fan to Win One”

Casablanca Fan Company is giving away this beautiful 52” Vita Ceiling Fan!

Hunter Fan Company is giving away this gorgeous 52” Contemporary Ceiling Fan!

How to Enter:

1. “Like” Casablanca Fan Company and Hunter Fan Company on Facebook
2. Enter the contest on the “Be a Fan to Win One” sweepstakes tab and that’s it!

Today’s feature is not a lighting category, but a lighting company. We’d like to welcome Cerno Group to our product inventory. Cerno manufactures innovative LED lighting fixtures that fuse quality and performance with modern design and resource efficiency. Cerno began in 2009 but they are already making a splash in the design world.

Refresh your dated dining room with a stylish selection of great looking lighting fixtures. From chandeliers to track lights, there are many ways to get an attractive and budget-friendly lighting setup for your dining room. But choosing the right lighting for your dining room can be difficult at best when there are so many dining room lights to choose from. Use this guide to dining room lights and you can be sure you’ll get a stylish dining room lighting system that will make your dining room shine.

Chandeliers

One of the most common ceiling lights for a dining room lighting setup, a chandelier can add an opulent and royal feel to any dining room area. Chandeliers work best for a dining room with a large table. Because chandeliers hang so low, they are often installed in dining rooms with a vaulted, cathedral or tray ceiling. Chandeliers are a heavy dining room light and must be supported using the correct outlet box.

Pendants

A great way to light small dining room areas and kitchen eating areas is with pendant lighting. These smaller versions of the chandelier can really add to your dining room design. Since these lighting systems are smaller than a chandelier, they put out less light, therefore requiring more pendants to be installed to keep the dining area illuminated properly. Pendants come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colors, ensuring you get the perfect stylish lighting system for you dining room and accessories.

Wall Lighting