Marco Colacicco, Co-Director of Christopher Guy UK discusses how you can transform a room with striking detail in statement lighting.

“Good Lighting does more than just illuminate a room; for example a well positioned and exquisite piece such as a striking chandelier or a pair of elegant wall lights can completely transform any space. Statement lighting and the return of decadent chandeliers have been a key trend for 2010 and this will continue into 2011 along with hand-made designs, metallic details and sculptural shapes.  

The ‘wow factor’ chandelier has been making a big comeback recently and in 2011 we will see these lighting pieces become even larger, more theatrical and adventurous in their designs. A chandelier is a fantastic way to add
sophistication to a room – with either a strikingly decadent design or a more contemporary piece. The chandelier used to be associated with grand houses and hotels, but has recently begun to take on a more contemporary edge by using unusual materials and complex shapes. Larger, more dramatic pieces look fantastic in spacious entrance halls and entertaining rooms. By contrast understated, smaller designs work well in a minimalist kitchen to add an element of warmth and contrast to the simple décor.   

In all areas of the home, oversized proportions will be prominent in 2011. Lighting designers are playing with the surreal and this is reflected in the unconventional shapes being used. Christopher Guy is renowned for large-scale furniture; the ‘Tentacle’ chandelier is no exception with its impressive, hand-blown cascading glass design measuring an astounding 2.3m in length. 

‘Sculptural’ is another key trend with strong shapes also acting as functional art pieces, ranging from curvaceous organic styles to stronger contemporary geometric designs. Christopher Guy’s team of master craftsmen use a variety of traditional techniques to hand-carve and hand-finish the solid wood lights meaning that they’re able to create intricate shapes of unprecedented quality.     

Metallic tones in all forms have been on the fashion and interiors trend-radar for some time now, also filtering down into lighting design with gold being the metallic colour of choice to add warmth to a scheme. Metallics work well with most colour schemes and add a touch of instant elegance. The key to this look is to blend pared down neutrals with more luxurious gold, silver and bronze highlights, for example Christopher Guy’s elegant hand-carved table lamps feature just a touch of subtle gold contrasted with a neutral coloured shade.

After a period of toned-down luxury, here at Christopher Guy we predict a more confident year in 2011. We will see lighting take the lead with flamboyant and complex designs that function as both pieces of art and design for the home. 

Showroom location: 555 Kings Road, Chelsea, London, SW6 2EB

Also available at Harrods, 3rd Floor Decorative Furniture Department, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL

For further information, telephone 020 7348 7366 or visit www.christopherguy.com.