The 25 key Lighting Trends for 2024, Setting the Stage for how Homes Will Look Next Year

Lighting trends are the interior design world’s ace that it keeps hidden up its sleeve. Light a room up with a single - bare - standard bulb and it will look stark, with a distinct lack of atmosphere. But consider ‘layers’ of lighting and all the options that come with it, and you’re onto a winning room scheme. Floor lamps, wall lights, table, and desk luminaires - these are just a few of the world of options available when mapping out a grande new lighting design scheme. How do you even begin to choose? Well, by looking at the up-and-coming 2024 lighting trends, of course. 

'Lighting stands out as a key element that can make or break the ambiance of a space,' explains interior designer Isabel Jackson, owner of Cheltenham Interiors. 'There are endless possibilities in lighting design and by uncovering the latest sophisticated styles, we noticed those that hark back to last year standing the test of time versus those that are seemingly more fleeting trends.'

Indeed, it’s time to let the light in with this seriously illuminating roundup of interior design trends. With a sparkling selection of new lighting being unveiled at the recent SuperSalone in Milan, London Design Festival and Decorex International shows (all of which have rolled out during the last couple of months) we’ve honed right in on the biggest, brightest, and most fabulous lighting looks hitting the interiors market. Dare we say, these trends are all in the spotlight? 

What are the lighting trends for 2024?

1. Layered Lighting 

Granted, layered lighting should be woven into any space, but there's been a recent trend for ramped-up light sources in the past year, especially in the realm of living room lighting. Never one to rely on the notorious 'big light', we believe in layering lots of complementary lighting to enhance the coziness. 

'Elevate your interiors with layered lighting, a timeless technique that adds depth and dimension to any room,' suggests Jo Plant, Head of Design at Pooky. 'Incorporate a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a multifaceted ambiance that caters to different activities and moods throughout the day.'

Isabel Jackson of Cheltenham Interiors notes that playing with layered lighting can really switch up a room's vibe. 'I noticed loads of moody lighting experiences during Salone de Mobile, such as Loewe’s presentation that incorporated floor lamps and pendants showing that cozy living takes center stage.' 

2. Frost Matte Lighting

Frosted, matte white lighting - especially globe fixtures light those pictured above - are enjoying a real moment in the spotlight right now. 'Sculptural lamps and matte white are both key trends for the coming year – easy to incorporate and combine with both pared back or pretty patterned shades, and also working beautifully with strong color,' notes Jo. 

Casting a bright white glow, this look lends itself especially well to kitchen lighting, particularly when paired with brass or gold-tinted fittings. 'Swapping out your existing lighting for fixtures with soft matte offers a buttery yet cozy appearance that adds a welcoming touch to the living space,' adds Mischa Couvrette, founder of lighting brand, hollis+morris.

3.  Lights as focal points

Gone are the days when lighting was a mere afterthought. These days, statement lighting is now being used as the sole focal point of a space, drawing the eye and inviting awe. 

'Over the years, lighting has increasingly become the focal point in a room,' explains Niki Wright, co-founder of lights & lamps. 'Lighting fixtures have become popular as statement pieces, leading to a rise of larger more statement lamps, while larger pieces are being used on consoles and sideboards or where floor lamps aren't appropriate.' 

'A focal point is the first thing that catches your eye when you walk into a room, framing the space and helping to create balance, contrast and context,' adds Jo. 'With well-chosen lighting, you can create an attention-grabbing centerpiece in each room, guiding the viewer from point to point as they move through your home.' 

When it comes to lighting design tips for creating a focal point, Jo has some ideas up her sleeve, too. You can do it by highlighting particular features – for example, by using a pair of wall lights on either side of a chimney breast,' she says. 'Or you can use statement lights to make focal points themselves, such as a dazzling chandelier in the entryway.'

4.  Mixed Materials 

Lighting is a great way to introduce bolder and braver materials into your space, and the beauty of bases and shades - or fixtures and bulbs - is that they offer endless opportunities to play with contrasting materials, colors, and textures. 

'Mixing materials continues to be a trend, however the materials used are being upscaled,' notes Niki. 'Think Viola Callacatta and darkened bronze over Travertine and polished brass.' This juxtaposition helps to add depth and dimension to a space, plus ample opportunities to play around with light and shadow, too. 

5. Glossy color 

Bold color, especially when accompanied by glossy finishes, is one of the key lighting trends for 2024. The perfect way to add a pop of color to a living room, vibrant lighting can tie a whole scheme together or add a point of interest in an otherwise neutral room. 

'When it comes to color, we noticed a playful approach to lighting, with lots of designs incorporating bright colors and differing shapes,' explains Michael Vasku, Creative Director at Preciosa. 'Many lighting launches are making use of primary colors and dynamic compositions with impactful, geometric forms lending a game-like aesthetic to lighting at this year’s Milan Design Week.' 

Be it colored glass or bright pendants with matching cords, like the one pictured above, this year is all about embracing vibrant lighting. 'Another trend that was apparent from High Point and Milan Design Week were the solid pops of color, especially on lamp bases,' says Isabel. 'At High Point there were some of Robert Abbey’s brighter pops of color in his lamp bases that are reminiscent of Suzanne Kasler’s 2010 lighting collaboration with Ballard.' 

6. White on white

On the other hand, pure white lighting is also leading the way in 2024's lighting trends. 'White-on-white lighting is an incredibly popular and chic trend that exudes an unparalleled sense of sophistication, luxury, and serenity,' notes Isabel. 'The minimalist aesthetic of this lighting style allows for high customization and complements various design styles, making it a versatile option for any interior. The bright and airy ambiance created by white-on-white fixtures feels fresh, modern, and inviting, while its timeless appeal inspires simplicity and purity in interiors.' 

A popular choice for minimaluxe designs as a way to heighten the contemporary feel, this lighting choice is bound to prove increasingly popular in 2025 and beyond. 'Undoubtedly, white-on-white lighting has become synonymous with understated luxury and modern sophistication, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their space with a touch of elegance and refinement,' Isabel adds. 

7. Romantic lamps with patterned shades

If, however, you're more inclined toward maximalism, there are plenty of lighting trends to reflect your tastes, too. One of those is pleated patterned shades to add a touch of whimsy romance to your space, the perfect bedroom lighting choice for an ultra-cozy sleep environment. 

'Traditional has always been part of our DNA, albeit presented with a Pooky twist to make sure it doesn’t look old-fashioned,' says Jo. 'Some customers love that our lights give the feel of an antique shop of flea market find, and with plenty of bronze and brass finishes in the latest collection, they’re pieces which work really well in the conventional styling and architecture of many homes.' Pair with plenty of complementary patterns (or clashing ones) around the room to offer even more layers of comfort.

8. Textured lighting 

The textured lighting trend feels fun and playful, but it's also the perfect way to change the way light bounces around your space. Take pleated shades, travertine base, or the best rattan lamps, for example. The tactility of the materials can completely transform a space in an instant. 

'Lighting fixtures with concrete textures have been dominating the modern interior design scene lately,' Isabel notes. 'They exude an industrial elegance and sophistication that perfectly complements a wide range of design styles. These fixtures are not just mere decorative elements, but serve as powerful focal points that effortlessly anchor the room and add visual interest. Be it minimalist pendant lights or statement chandeliers, lighting fixtures with concrete textures elevate the beauty and functionality of any home, creating a luminous sanctuary that inspires the soul.' 

9. Retro chandeliers 

With a nod to Art Deco style, traditional beaded chandeliers are cropping up across more and more designs of late, be it bedroom chandeliers or sconces in bathrooms. 'There’s definitely a nostalgic theme to many of the lighting launches at this year’s Milan Design Week,' says Michael. 'Much of what we saw had a retro look and feel, from the use of chunky crystal through to chandelier-inspired lighting, all with a contemporary twist bringing something fresh to traditional notions of lighting.' 

'This year takes an unabashedly nostalgic turn by reviving glamorous retro spotlights, geometric and traditional chandeliers, and curved sconces,' adds Isabel. 'The juxtaposition of different periods in history reminds us how good design reinvents itself for changing times. We saw geometric and traditional chandeliers at High Point, where South Carolina brand Ro Sham Beaux has upped their game by showcasing a couple of sophisticated large chandeliers. These timeless showstoppers seem to have gathered momentum this year when chandeliers are making a comeback.' 

10. Mirrored brass

The opulence of mirror finished brass is reminiscent of the Art Deco era and, after two years of not needing to get dressed up, we are loving the glamour it’s bringing to the home. While elements of this era have been making their way back to living room trends over the last few years, it’s time to embrace the look even further. 

The high gloss finish of the Torsa chandelier by Cameron Design House is a great introduction, with the brass discs illuminating against each other and bouncing light across the room in a dramatic and theatrical manner. Inspired by the glistening reflections of Lake Torsa in Finland, this design is a showstopper and depicts this trend perfectly. 

11. Matching Pendant and Wall Colors

Ordinarily, pendants are often added to a room to create a focal centerpiece, but designers are adopting a new trend of matching the pendants to the color of the walls. 

This monochromatic look brings a strong, contemporary edge to the interior and works well when paired with current kitchen trends like natural timbers and finishes. As displayed here by Wastberg in its upcoming collaboration with David Chipperfield, the smooth finish and subtle color palette blends perfectly to create  calming, yet functional, kitchen lighting. 

12. Burnt steel

'For the last few years there was a fascination of an eye-catching rainbow effect made from graphite powder and burnt steel, reminiscent of the northern lights,' Isabel explains. 'Their fascination with the ethereal dance of colors extends into 2024 with their cosmic magic that transcends the seasons.'

Thanks to home fittings experts, Buster & Punch, this striking new finish is turning heads in the design world, particularly when it comes to dining table trends. Inspired by motorbike exhausts once they have run lean, the heat creates an eye-catching rainbow effect onto the surface and a flattering glow on anyone who sits under them.

Developing a new technique, the team has harnessed this effect and applied it to marine-grade stainless steel to create a series of fixtures and fittings for the home. The exquisite Forked pendant is perfect for industrial-style kitchens, or placed over a bar or as dining room lighting. 

13. Organic Silhouettes

Our love for free-flowing forms and softer profiles has grown as designers push boundaries in exploring unconventional shapes. Organic modern style breaks the mold of traditional and more predictable aesthetics. 

The new ‘Skirt’ Pendants by Broste Copenhagen showcase the beauty of this trend, with the designs mimicking the organic movement of fabric itself. The primary colors add a playful touch to the collection and, as the Nordic brand encourages, grouping them together helps to build up five different light sources within the room. 'The perfect amount for the right atmosphere and a nod to the Danish tradition of creating ‘hygge’ through light,' they state. 

The same applies to the materials used in lighting, too. 'Incorporating lighting with organic materials such as wood and frost glowing lenses is the way to go, as it allows you a unique opportunity to bring the outdoors inside,' explains Mischa of hollis+morris. 

14. Lights as Art

Adding sculpture into the home can be difficult due to space restrictions and budgets. However, merging art with function addresses both issues and many designers are bringing an artistic take to a variety of creations, especially in the lighting world. 

'Similar to last year the trend of merging art with lighting seems to be continuing over into this year where lighting has elevated to gallery-worthy levels,' Isabel says. 'There are sculptural pendants dangling over dining tables, kitchen islands or living rooms and making a bold statement.'

Showcased at Paris Design Week, Uchronia’s ‘Stolen Objects from the Sea’ collection, in partnership with Antoine Billore, boasts a magical and ‘otherworldly’ beauty that personifies this trend superbly. The Bisous stool, topped with a vintage Vallauris fish lamp, acts as a lamp, table and stool, as well as a decorative work of art. Think outside the box and find a unique creation such as this to really stand out from the crowd.

15. Dark Smoked Glass

Perfectly suited to monochromatic color schemes, or Scandinavian design-inspired aesthetic, black glass adds a striking contrast against natural woods and neutral fabrics. 

Norway’s oldest glass maker, Hadeland Glassverk, has added darker glass variations to its Archive lamps and pendants, bringing a solid block of color to the room and allowing them to stand out. Smoked glass works well with an architectural silhouette and adds further impact when used with matching fixtures and fittings.

16. Recessed Lighting

'There is a considerable and noticeable move away from downlighting to LED and hidden lighting,' states Piero De Marchis, the founder of Detail Lighting. 'Track lighting is also becoming an incredibly popular choice, enabling homeowners to adapt and move their lighting scheme from one area to the next with ease.'

This added functionality is bringing a new dimension to homes with it providing a subtle and more relaxing atmosphere, especially in bathroom lighting where it provides a spa sanctuary feel. Add in layers of lamplight to complement the softer background lighting creating a cozier and more considered ambience. 

'Architectural features come alive with discreet light sources such as cove ceilings where the rounded curved framing detail is located where the wall and ceiling join and the light diffuses out from within that area creating a soft diffusion all around the ceiling detail,' explains Isabel. 'This effect is one of the most magnificent ways to elevate the entire room if the vibe is traditional and it has typical moldings of a traditional space. LED strips are able to subtly emphasize the contours of the space.  It leaves people with a sense of wonder and is a contrast to the visible track lighting that was in vogue in 2023.' 

17. Bespoke Extension Leads

With conventional extension leads not being the most aesthetically pleasing, many homeowners have had to think of clever ways to hide and disguise such practical accessories. However, thanks to brands such as Lola’s Leads, bespoke alternatives are available to purchase and once seen, you most likely won’t buy a traditional extension lead again! 

Designed in an array of fabric and color choices, you can match it to any interior to either blend in or create an eye-catching feature of its own. And, with working from home on the increase, accessories like this allow for a neater workspace area. 

18. Portable Lamps

Kitchen table lamps are the new decor must-have, preferably if they're portable for added convenience. Flexibility, sustainability, and affordability have become top priorities as the effects of climate change increase, energy prices rise, and our homes become multifunctional workspaces. Portable LED lamps are an ideal solution helping to address all three issues. 

Wireless and typically rechargeable, these lamps are designed for indoor and outdoor, and are becoming increasingly popular in 2024. 'They are flexible, sustainable, and affordable at a time when homes have become multifunctional workspaces,' Isabel tells us. 'Additionally our priorities are climate change and rising energy prices and these solutions seem to address those in a practical way. At High Point, British brand Pooky burst onto the scene with a whimsical almost circus-like exhibition which was met with a great reception due to its playful designs. Then Visual Comfort and Currey & Co had their portables on display, and Tom Dixon just released his SS24 collection.'

19. Colored Rattan Lampshades

While natural materials such as jute and rattan have been growing in popularity with their organic aesthetic and qualities, designers are now adding their own unique flair to the materials using color. 

The new Rattan Wave Pendant by Matilda Goad & Co. and edit58 is available in four new shades by Farrow & Ball. Adding color to natural materials such as this will bring it to a new audience of maximalists who often avoid its untreated, organic hues in bolder interior schemes.

'Rattan boasts excellent advantages, given its natural composition and neutral hues,' says Isy. 'It can be easily molded into various shapes to give large chandeliers that are not heavy but with its entwined rattan strands evokes a rustic and raw aesthetic distinct from rather industrial alternatives. Occasionally there are more color options now, similar to the evolution of white bouclé on furniture which has an array of colors this year synonymous with a more optimistic outlook than the past couple of years.'

20. Metallic and marble floor lamps

Slinking into our sight lines, these slender floor lamps all embody elegance and charisma. Aside from their slight appearance, what two other things are to note? Well, marble and metallic finishes - are what make these floor lamps so standout. They’re all embracing if not one, then both, finishes. 

Why should we look out for floor lamps that incorporate marble or stone, and metallic details? Designer Linda Boronkay explains, 'Marble is a beautiful and long-lasting material that I love to use in projects. In particular, when paired with metal (metallics included) it gives a very smart look to your home - really elevating a space.'

21. Art Deco shapes

It’s safe to say that Art Deco has, certainly within the last decade, never fallen out of fashion. It’s now distinct, sleek, and potentially old enough (of course we mean this in the most respectful sense), to be described as a ‘classic’ look. 

However, whilst we’ve seen Art Deco-inspired lighting styles in the interior market before, we haven’t seen it quite like this. Less glitz and glamour (yes, you can leave the diamante details and shiny chrome at the door), these new pendants all draw upon the more subtle Art Deco details from the 1930s: a soft scalloped edge, a hint of marble, a mellow dash of Midas or bronze. Now we’re talking. 

‘There is always a sense of nostalgia when it comes to design and there are certain eras that we like referring back to more often than to others,' says Linda Boronkay. And on this occasion, we’re talking Art Deco. 'Art Deco is one such style, why? because it provides endless sources of inspiration with its signature silhouettes, materials, and colors.'

22. Scalloped edges

What to look for in 2023? The cool mellowness of scalloped edges. These gentle curves are not about showing off, but about being discerningly stylish with your design detail and choices. 

The joy of this trend is that it fits in well with the current living room color trends, remaining restrained (but altogether chic, of course!). One of these pendants would fit almost anywhere at home; above the dining table, in the entryway, or over a staircase. We love a lighting trend that’s a ‘do all’ contender, and that can instantly update a space that might be, for whatever reason, overlooked.

23. Handmade pendant lights

'Now, this is my absolute favorite of all the new lighting trends and, honestly, I feel it’s a very long-lasting and versatile one too,' says Linda Boronkay. Linda explains the benefits of opting for the handmade and crafted trend, saying, 'You won’t only support craftspeople by buying into this lighting trend, but the outcome is going to be absolutely stunning too' citing, amongst other benefits, 'soul and warmth' as the characteristics from such products. 

Look out for the likes of the Soren Globe pendant from Pinch. This tasteful-looking light is - believe it or not - constructed from repurposed banana skin, molded over a bronze frame. Pinch says it has a characteristic best thought of as 'subtle luminosity'. Say no more. This has a glowing, casual evening dinner party vibe written all over it. 

24. Space-age table lamps

Like a scene from The Galactic Bar in Star Wars, these pieces all take on something of a slightly obscure but loveable visual aesthetic. They’re not what one might instantly call beautiful, but they definitely have a cute charisma and there’s something - could we say otherworldly? - about them. Essentially, you might want to just softly warn your desk that your home office ideas are about to be invaded by something, not necessarily extraterrestrial, but certainly ‘extra’ in the design sense. 

From designer-to-designer, it seems everyone has space invaders on the brain when it comes to desk and tabletop lighting design for 2023. Think bobbly Dalek-like bases and Space Invader ‘bodies’, a Mondrian-style color palette, and, a serious dose of fun-factor!  

'Opt-in for this trend if you’re looking to funk up your room,' says Linda Boronkay. And essentially that’s what these little lamps all offer. An opportunity to sprinkle some “fun-factor around the home'. Who wants a boring desk lamp anyway? Not us. Forget needing to be so practical. Sometimes a trend is just purely about being a little bit whimsical and different - this is especially fun to incorporate into your small bedroom desk ideas as pieces that double as quirky reading lamps. 

Look for design details including gloss or lacquered finish (there’s something truly delectable and almost edible about the little gloss ones - like candies on display in a sweetie shop - we kind of want them all) a shapely base (in fact, the more shapely the better!), and, a knock-out shade, fitting in nicely to current color trends. Take the Habitat Ngami in Royal Blue - a cute little button of amusement that’s just landed on shop shelves.

25. Architectural Chandeliers 

'In architecture, long lines help for a clean design,' says Matthijs van Tuijl, interior designer at Audi. 'It's the same with lighting, and the effect is transformative.' Architectural chandeliers are one of the best ways to incorporate the two together for a clean, crisp look that feels super contemporary.  

Some might associate the word ‘chandelier’ with a visual of glitzy glass pendant drops hanging from an overtly decorative iron or brass curving arm (in a shabby chic chateau, perhaps?), others might visualize a boudoir bedroom with over-the-top and slightly ‘l’amour’ decor. Well, banish the traditional curves, twists, and century-old details. These chandeliers are new, modern, seriously chic, and serve contemporary glamour in spades. 

'Chandeliers should be like a jewel in the crown of your home,' says Linda Boronkay, but, and it’s an important ‘but’,... 'they shouldn’t be the main light source', she warns. And that’s what this new wave of chandeliers all seem to embody - a sense of being as much about sculpture as they are about being a practical source of light. You can bring in other elements of practical wall, table, or floor lamps to support your lighting levels. 

What ceiling lights are on trend?

The most on trend ceiling lights are modern and sculptural chandeliers. They reinvent the classic, shabby chic glass drop pendant into something that looks like it is full of architectural wonder and ready to have cocktails under.

'Modern chandeliers are more about space and shape than they are pretty refracted light,' says Livingetc's Editor at Large, Pip Rich. 'Think of these lights as party-ready, ideal for creating a smart space in which to entertain.'

Are kitchen pendants out of style?

Kitchen pendants are absolutely not out of style, though the traditional run of three industrial lights above an island has moved on a little. 'Instead of a trio of individual lights, go for one big pendant in the kitchen,' says Pip. 'It makes much more of a statement, yet still produces the glow you want to illuminate where you're prepping food.'