The latest light switches

In the midst of a major refurb - when your head is filled with paint charts, fabrics swatches and furniture styles - light switches might seem like one of the less important design decisions. Yet ask any interior designer or architect, and they will advise that you have every last detail specified before your builders step over your renovation threshhold. Making rushed choices when your tradesmen are onsite can lead to disappointing results, especially if the product you finally set your heart on isn't in stock.Much like the thoughtful details on a suit, it's the finer elements, like light switches (and door handles) that really elevate a home.

Luckily there has been an explosion of covetable new styles - long gone are the days of unattractive white plastic as the only choice - brass, copper and verdigiris are getting a look in, as well as galvanised, polished and brushed chrome.

A flush flat plate in brushed chrome is the smart and safe choice, but the rosta of warm metals and design styles on offer mean you can really tailor the details of your scheme. Love Mid-Century style? Go for one of the vintage models. The classic Bakelite Dolly switch has had a modern revamp and is in the inspiration for new designs, all fully functioning and equipped for current electrical standards, so there's no need to faff around sourcing original switches and getting them reconditioned.

Fans of warm metals will get hot under the collar with the brass and copper styles, in brushed, polished and distressed finishes. Most are available with dimmer options or multiple 1, 2 or 3 gang switch toggles (so that you can switch your lights on or off from more than one place, such as the top and bottom of the stairs or each end of a long hallway - or run lights on different circuits to change the mood).

So take your pick and turn your design scheme up a notch.

A single wall switch with a face plate which has been high temperature galvanised for a beautiful and unique finish. Double and triple switches are available too for a coherent look. Made in the UK for exceptional quality and durability.

These authentic light switches really look the part and are indistinguishable from turn of the century originals. Unlike reclaimed examples, however, the insides meet current electrical standards.

Fitting flush to the wall, the flat screwed profile of this brushed steel toggle switch toggle switch has a sleek and discreet appearance. It's also available as a 2 gang switch, ideal for controlling the same light from two locations.

A sleek, brushed brass traditional rotary dimmer switch with a screwless metal face plate. It features a push on/off function and is suitable for mains and low voltage halogen lighting; dimmable CFL; and dimmable LED.

A sleek, brushed brass traditional rotary dimmer switch with a screwless metal face plate. It features a push on/off function and is suitable for mains and low voltage halogen lighting; dimmable CFL; and dimmable LED.

Say goodbye to boring white light switches, and a great big hello to this copper dimmer light switch. The colours, the finish and the feel are just so gorgeous that it actually makes switching a light on and off a pleasure.

The beautiful brass toggle switch on this matt black bevelled backplate really stands out. It's also available as a two toggle switch for switching lights from either one or two places (e.g. top and bottom of the stairs). Bespoke switch configurations are also available.

Inspired by ancient bronze artefacts, this verdigris switch has a distinctive patina finish. The plates are hand finished giving a variable effect, that makes each plate unique.