At Expert Electric, we believe that lighting is more than just a utility, it’s a powerful design element that shapes mood, function, and aesthetics. If you’re thinking about refreshing your interiors or exteriors, these Home Lighting Design Trends for 2018 will illuminate your inspiration and help you make informed decisions. Whether you’re into rustic vibes, industrial charm, or energy efficiency, this guide has something for every homeowner in 2018.
Why Lighting Trends Matter
Lighting trends are more than fleeting fads. They reflect evolving tastes, lifestyle changes, and even technological advancements. Home Lighting Design Trends for 2018 demonstrate how homeowners are shifting toward sustainability, minimalism, and personality-driven design choices.
Let’s break down these 2018 lighting trends into interior and exterior categories to help you target the areas of your home that need a glowing upgrade.
Interior Lighting Design Trends for 2018
1. Rustic Kitchen Lighting
Rustic lighting is a trend that refuses to fade. It’s cozy, charming, and incredibly versatile. In 2018, rustic kitchen lighting has moved from simply functional to deeply stylish. Picture this:
- Pendant lights with exposed bulbs
- Vintage-inspired chandeliers over islands
- Wooden accents combined with wrought iron
Rustic doesn’t mean outdated. Instead, it reflects warmth, hospitality, and creativity perfect for the heart of your home.
2. Modern Industrial Fixtures
Gone are the days of cold and clunky industrial lights. Home Lighting Design Trends for 2018 embrace a softer, sleeker version of the industrial look. Think:
- Brushed nickel and matte black finishes
- Slim profile fixtures with geometric designs
- Statement pieces that double as modern art
These lights serve both form and function and are perfect for lofts, studios, or modern minimalist homes. Industrial lighting works beautifully in living rooms, hallways, or offices where you want a subtle edge with a creative twist.
3. Smart Lighting Integration
With smart homes on the rise in 2018, lighting has joined the digital revolution. Smart bulbs and fixtures can be controlled by voice, smartphone apps, or sensors. You can:
- Adjust brightness levels based on time of day
- Change color temperature for mood settings
- Create lighting schedules to conserve energy
Integrating smart lighting into your home adds value, efficiency, and convenience, especially when paired with devices like Google Home or Amazon Echo.
4. Energy-Efficient LED Bulbs
The eco-conscious movement is influencing design across the board, and lighting is no exception. One of the most practical home lighting design trends for 2018 is the switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs.
Why make the switch?
- LEDs consume up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last significantly longer. Learn more about LED lighting benefits from Energy.gov.
- They last significantly longer (up to 25,000 hours)
- They’re now available in warm tones, dimmable options, and designer shapes
The initial cost may be higher, but long-term savings are undeniable, plus, they’re better for the planet.
5. Mixed Materials in Fixtures
One of the defining elements of 2018’s interior lighting trend is the combination of different textures and materials. Light fixtures are becoming design centerpieces, combining:
- Wood and metal
- Glass and fabric
- Marble and copper
This trend adds visual contrast and depth to any space and aligns with modern, bohemian, and transitional interiors.
Exterior Lighting Design Trends for 2018
Lighting your outdoor spaces has never been more stylish or eco-friendly. Here’s what’s brightening up exteriors in 2018.
1. Deck and Patio Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting is clean, chic, and highly functional. In 2018, it’s being installed in more nontraditional outdoor spaces, like:
- Deck railings
- Stair risers
- Under seating or planter boxes
It enhances safety during nighttime gatherings while also offering subtle ambiance. Plus, it doesn’t compete with your landscaping or outdoor decor.
2. Solar Landscape Lighting
Sustainability meets aesthetics in the form of solar-powered lights. No wiring, no energy bills, just the sun powering your beautiful backyard.
Top solar lighting uses in 2018 include:
- Pathway lights
- Garden spotlights
- Wall-mounted porch lights
This trend aligns with the broader push for eco-conscious living and is perfect for homeowners looking to lower their carbon footprint.
3. Color-Changing Outdoor LEDs
Looking to add flair to your outdoor events? RGB color-changing LED lights are becoming increasingly popular in 2018. Control them with a smartphone and select colors for:
- Holiday themes
- Backyard parties
- Seasonal ambiance
These lights are waterproof, long-lasting, and totally customizable.
4. Industrial-Inspired Sconces
The industrial trend isn’t just for interiors. Outdoor metal sconces with Edison bulbs or cage designs add character and functionality to patios, entryways, and garage exteriors.
Opt for weather-resistant finishes like matte black, galvanized steel, or bronze for a stylish yet practical lighting upgrade.
FAQs About Home Lighting Design Trends for 2018
Q: Are 2018 lighting trends still relevant today?
Absolutely. Many of the home lighting design trends for 2018, such as LED efficiency, smart home integration, and rustic-industrial styles, continue to influence modern lighting designs. These trends have staying power and can blend seamlessly with contemporary updates.
Q: What lighting trends from 2018 are best for small spaces?
For small rooms, consider installing recessed lighting, wall sconces, or multi-functional pendant lights. LED bulbs and smart lighting help maximize brightness without taking up physical space.
Q: Is it worth switching to LED bulbs in 2018?
Yes. Even in 2018, the long-term savings and reduced environmental impact made LEDs a smart investment. And with design improvements, they’re now available in decorative styles suitable for any room.
Q: Can I install outdoor lighting myself?
While solar lights and some plug-in options are DIY-friendly, we strongly recommend consulting licensed electricians like the team at Expert Electric, for hardwired systems. This ensures safety, code compliance, and optimal performance.
Final Thought: Light the Way with Expert Electric
Whether you’re revamping your kitchen or illuminating your backyard retreat, staying on top of Home Lighting Design Trends for 2018 can completely transform your living experience. From energy-efficient LED solutions to rustic industrial fixtures, this year’s trends embrace both style and sustainability.
At Expert Electric, our team helps homeowners make the most out of every watt. With decades of experience, a passion for cutting-edge lighting solutions, and a commitment to safety, we’re your one-stop shop for residential lighting upgrades, big or small.
Contact Expert Electric
Ready to modernize your lighting and electrify your home’s design?
📞 Call Us Today: 604-681-8338
📧 Email Us: info@expertelectric.ca
Our expert electricians are here to bring your vision to light efficiently, beautifully, and safely. Let’s brighten your home together.
