Introducing Reminiscence Home.
This month I’m excited to announce our exclusive partnership with Géraldine Delettre and Reminiscence Home, her gorgeous brand of porcelain lighting, tableware and decorative accessories, all handmade in France from beautiful Limoges porcelain. To quote Géraldine;
“100% French-made, entirely hand-crafted, and the product of centuries of local know-how, the creations draw their design from bewitching shapes, with a hint of vintage inspiration. They evoke the simplicity of everyday life and sustainability and free themselves from trends.
The immaculate white of porcelain is intriguing, eye-catching and attractive! The suspended lights, lamps and lampshades are intensely poetic.
With their play of shadows, matt or glossy finishes, smooth or serrated feel, staged alone or in an accumulation, they sublimate both classic interiors and the most modern living spaces.”
Anyone who knows me knows my love of lighting and the various ways it can be used not just as a form of decoration, but to maintain or even alter the ambience of a room. So when I saw what Géraldine was doing with her range of porcelain, I knew it would be a perfect fit for Louisa Grace.
Limoges is arguably the porcelain capital of the world, and it really shows in the artisan makers’ ability to mould the light shades so slim that they take on a level of near translucence. The way they diffuse the light is almost dream-like.
You can browse the Reminiscence Home range in our online store, we’ve given them their own section and will be promoting them more over the coming months. But in the meantime, I thought I’d celebrate their arrival with my own spin on why porcelain lighting is as fresh now as it’s always been.
I hope you find it ‘Illuminating’ 😉
The Timeless Elegance of Porcelain Lighting
Welcome to a world where lighting becomes an art form, where elegance melds seamlessly with functionality, and where your space is transformed into a haven of warmth and ambience. Let me introduce you to the enduring beauty of porcelain lighting.
From delicate pendant lights to intricate wall sconces and minimalist lamp shades, porcelain lighting fixtures exude an air of sophistication and refinement that is unrivalled. These pieces are not only visually engaging but also exude a soft, gentle glow that creates a serene atmosphere in any room. Whether you’re looking to illuminate your living room, bedroom, or even an outdoor space, porcelain lighting offers a versatile and elegant solution.
Advantages of Porcelain Lighting
Porcelain lighting fixtures have long been chosen for their beauty and exceptional durability. Unlike other materials, porcelain is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly resistant to heat, moisture, and corrosion. This makes it an ideal choice for lighting fixtures, ensuring they retain their elegance and functionality for years to come.
One of the standout advantages of porcelain lighting is its ability to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The soft, diffused glow from porcelain fixtures adds a serenity and tranquillity, transforming ordinary rooms into cosy retreats. Whether we use it as mood lighting or as a focal point, porcelain has the unique ability to enhance the overall ambience of a space, creating a welcoming environment.
Porcelain is also highly customisable, allowing designers and homeowners to bring in their own personal style additions. This versatility extends to its ability to be painted or glazed, which is a great way to add further customisation.
Different Types of Porcelain Lighting Fixtures
Porcelain lighting fixtures come in a variety of styles and designs, each with its own unique charm and elegance. From pendant lights to chandeliers, wall sconces and table lamps, there is a porcelain lighting fixture to suit every space and purpose.
Pendant lights are a popular choice for adding a touch of sophistication and style to any room. Hanging from the ceiling or any other semi-permanent structure, pendant lights can be used to create a focal point or to provide ambient lighting. Their versatile design means they can be used in a variety of spaces, from kitchens to dining rooms, living rooms to bedrooms. One of my favourites in the new Reminiscence Home range is the portable long-cable pendant that can be moved anywhere and easily adjusted for height, with the cable actually forming part of the styling.
Wall sconces are another popular choice for incorporating porcelain lighting into your home. These fixtures are mounted on the wall and can be used to provide both ambient and task lighting. I mostly like to use them as decorative accents in a dining room or hallway. I find that paired with the right bulb for a soft, diffused glow, wall sconces are perfect for creating a cosy and intimate atmosphere.
Table lamps are a versatile option for adding porcelain lighting to your space. They’re great for bedside or console tables, or as desk lamps, providing both functional and decorative lighting. And with their ability to be easily moved around, they offer loads of options in terms of placement, so you can experiment with different arrangements to match the ambience to the occasion.
Incorporating Porcelain Lighting in Different Spaces
Porcelain light fixtures can be incorporated into a whole host of spaces; living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and even outdoor areas. The key here as with all decorative lighting, is to consider the specific needs and aesthetics of each space.
In the living room, a porcelain pendant light can be used to create a focal point above a coffee or dining table. You could go for a larger pendant light to make a bold statement, or my preference is to choose a selection of smaller pendant lights which I then cluster to create shapes that shift depending on your viewing angle. Place wall sconces on either side of a fireplace or a piece of artwork to create focal points and develop a cosy ‘reading room’ atmosphere.
Porcelain pendant lights provide functionality as well as style in the bedroom. Choose an adjustable pendant light that can be easily manoeuvred for reading and add a dimmer to create a relaxing and soothing ambience.
In the kitchen, pendant lights are popular as task lighting above a kitchen island or to light the dining table. Go for shades with a predominantly downward light distribution, to ensure optimal illumination for food preparation and dining. Wall sconces can be used to provide additional ambient lighting and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Wall sconces go great in a bathroom to create a spa-like ambience, and the moisture-resistant finish ensures their longevity in a humid environment. If you have a free-standing bath, try hanging a cluster of small pendants directly above it and team that with a few candles, to really up the luxury factor.
In outdoor spaces, porcelain lighting can add a touch of charm and elegance. Use pendant lights to illuminate an outdoor dining area, creating an inviting and even romantic ambience. Wall sconces can be used to provide additional lighting and enhance the overall aesthetic of the space. Just make sure you select fixtures that are specifically designed for outdoor use to ensure their durability in different weather conditions.
How to Choose the Right Porcelain Light Fixture
There are several factors to consider when selecting the right lighting piece for your space.
Firstly, think about the size and scale of the space. A large pendant light can overpower a small room, while a small pendant light may get lost in a larger space. Take measurements and consider the proportion of the fixture in relation to the room to ensure a balanced look. If in doubt, cut some shapes out of cardboard and hang them in place to help visualise how the final design will fit.
Secondly, consider the style and aesthetic of the space. Porcelain lighting fixtures are available in a wide range of designs, from traditional and dare I say ‘chintzy’ to modern and super-sleek. Choose a fixture that complements the existing decor and enhances the overall aesthetic of the space. Take on board the combination of colour palette, texture, and materials used in the room to ensure a cohesive feel.
Thirdly, what is the purpose and function of the lighting fixture? Are you looking for ambient lighting, task lighting, or as a decorative accent? Different fixtures have different lighting capabilities, so it’s important to choose one that meets your specific needs.
Last but by no means least, budget. Porcelain lighting fixtures can vary considerably in price depending on the design and craftsmanship. Set your budget and explore different options within that price range and remember, designs can be impersonated, craftsmanship cannot.
Porcelain Lighting in Interior Design Trends
Porcelain lighting has long been a staple in interior design, offering timeless elegance and versatility. In recent years, it’s become even more prominent in interior design trends, as homeowners and designers look for ways to incorporate classic long-lasting materials into their spaces.
One interior design trend that showcases porcelain lighting is the use of monochromatic colour schemes (did someone say Colour Drenching?). Porcelain light fixtures in white or neutral tones blend seamlessly with monochromatic interiors, adding depth and texture without overpowering the overall aesthetic. The soft glow emitted by porcelain lighting fixtures enhances the monochromatic colour scheme, creating a serene and sophisticated ambience.
Another current trend that embraces porcelain lighting is the use of natural materials. As designers seek to create more sustainable and eco-friendly spaces, porcelain lighting fixtures offer a perfect solution. Made from natural materials such as clay and minerals, porcelain fixtures are a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice.