Where trends come and go, vintage is nostalgic. In that sense, retro pendant lights are making a grand comeback. They bridge the gap between the past and the present to create a beautiful and classic picture. Known for their distinctive charm and character, they bring back golden memories and transport you back to a time when things were simple and life was easy. This is the exact feeling that one wants in their home - happy-go-lucky. An inexpensive way to achieve this effect is to upgrade the lighting. So, let's get back those vintage vibes by incorporating retro pendant lights.
History Behind Popular Pendant Light Designs
The story of pendant lights is one of innovation and design. From the Industrial Revolution’s functional lights to the glamorous Art Deco era, each period had its own take on lighting. In the former case, the lights were simple-looking with no frills. Later, artistic elements made an entry, making lights, too, a thing of beauty. Mid-century modern pendant lights with their clean lines and organic shapes came after the Second World War. These were all about optimism and forward-thinking. Knowing the history behind these designs makes them not just light fittings but pieces of art.
Reason For Their Comeback
Retro pendant lights are making a comeback because they have a timeless appeal. Even in modern homes, they occupy a place of pride. Their ability to seamlessly blend the old and the new gives homes an elegance that transcends time. Retro-inspired pieces tell a story of ‘what was’. Incorporating them in ‘what is’ makes them immortal and precious. The other reasons for their popularity are:
Use of Good Quality Materials
Materials used in vintage pendant lights have always been bold and sleek, like copper, brass and aluminium. With delicate glass and beautiful acrylic shades, they make for incredible statement pieces. Nowadays, to make the shades more durable, light manufacturers have started using materials that are sturdy and shatter-resistant.
Stylish
Mid-century was the time when light manufacturers started playing with different forms. Square, oval, bubble and cylindrical shapes in shades worked effectively to cut the seriousness and severity of the architecture. Globe pendant lights immediately became popular. Today, bubble lamps and small round globes are much-loved light fixtures in cluster pendant lights. With their asymmetrical setting, they become immediate attractions.
Abundance of Colour Choices
The colour palette in vintage pendant lights ranged from bold crimson to pure white and natural tones of wood. These colours were and still are a welcome change in homes that are bland and have a washed-out look. Colours add personality and give the home a loved look. In today's kitchens, where people opt for a single colour scheme, they add vibrancy through bold-coloured pendant lights for the island.
Choosing the Perfect Retro Pendant Lights for Your Home
The search for retro pendant lights for your space begins with understanding your personal style. The first thing you need to work out is whether you prefer the rugged charm and simplicity of industrial lights, or are you more drawn towards ornate details and artistic elements. Each style is distinct. Yet it should complement the existing decor and become a statement piece without being too overbearing. Mostly, the pendant lights for the dining room incorporate this diverse style and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The next thing to consider is your budget. The lights from the mid-century are not always cheap. Some are as expensive as designer pendant lights and some even more. If the light that you like is more than you can afford, you can still get hold of cheaper look-alikes. So, do exhaustive research and check out what all is available before making a final decision. Finally, it's the size that matters. Consequently, measure the overhead space and decide whether you want one single statement piece, like a big brass gold pendant light or smaller evenly placed rustic pendant lights.
Where to Hang Your Retro Pendant Lights
In a home, there is no dearth of places to hang lights. But that does not mean you install them wherever you find an empty place. Lights should be installed to illuminate the entire space, as is in the case of ambient lights, or they should focus on something that is worth highlighting. Now, let’s check out the most probable locations for your lovely pendant lights.
Retro Pendant Lights in the Kitchen
Pendant lights in the kitchen can make it cosy and inviting. Specifically, pendant lights over the kitchen island can aesthetically improve the space. A trio of vintage lights over the island or dining table will add elegance and create an ambient glow. Exposed bulbs or frosted glass shades will give a true retro feel.
Vintage Elegance in the Dining Room
If you want to create a focal point over the dining table, opt for a line of medium-sized lights or a single statement piece. Globe pendant lights are particularly effective in creating a soft, inviting ambience. If you have a favourite reading corner, cluster pendant lights will light it up perfectly and add style. The intimate look created by these lights is a delightful change.
Nostalgia in the Bedroom
Create a sense of nostalgia in your bedroom with vintage lights. Their soft, diffused glow will give a dreamy, romantic touch to the bedroom. Rattan pendant lights and rustic pendant lights can bring a natural, earthy feel. They suit the tastes of men and women alike. Such lights will enhance the comfort and charm of your bedroom.
Summing It All
As timeless pieces, retro pendant lights are more than just lamps. They bring history, character and charm to every space. By choosing and placing lights thoughtfully, you can create a warm and cosy atmosphere. Such a classic setting looks back to the past and combines with the reality of the present to create a style that is always in. With our tips, get ready to give your home a retro vibe and make it a place to be proud of.
Visit Comet Lighting to check out our entire retro light collection. Hang them in your rooms and give your home a timeless elegance and vintage appeal.
