Blinkdecor : Eye On Design :

This month's "eye on design" shines the spotlight on what's new and exciting in the world of lighting. Using blinkdecor’s five signature design styles, here are our picks for fixtures that are charming, and those that really radiate!

MODERN CHIC:
Pretty yet predictable, the gourd lamp has become a "classic" in modern home decor. While we can't deny the appeal (check out the gorgeous, colorful glazes from Christopher Smitzmiller,) modern chic table lamps take on an edgier, more distinctive form these days. Our favorite "new" look is retro modern, "baseless" lamps that actually rest on top of a table. This fabulous vintage piece from Rewire is made from Italian blown glass dressed, and finished with a crown silver lightbulb.

TRADITIONAL WITH A TWIST:
There's always a place for a stunning crystal chandelier, it just isn't hip to shine over your dining room table anymore. Our design preference is pairing a formal chandelier with more casual or modern surrounds, such as a Venetian fixture placed above an old plank farm table, or a Murano glass piece hanging in a contemporary powder room. For a fresh take on a traditionally shaped chandelier, consider the jet black version from Jayson Home & Garden, illuminated with round bulbs.

ANTIQUE GLAM:
Mirrored lighting fixtures and furniture pieces are staples when it comes to creating "Hollywood Glam" interiors, but the style can look rather forced if there isn't an interesting mix of materials and genres. Sconces lend themselves extremely well to vintage design, and our favorites are mid century modern. The gem colored Vistosi disc sconce from Stellar Union is a stunning accent piece placed above a mirrored or silver leaf casegood.

BEACHY CLEAN:
Capiz shells have become a ubiquitous design element in beachy interiors, decorating everything from mirrors to hanging lamps. The round capiz shell chandelier can now be found at many brand outlets, which somewhat dilutes its artisan origin. Blinkdecor's favorite lighting fixture for breezy, sophisticated surrounds, is the interwoven French Coral/Twig Chandelier from Todd Merrill.

ECO-FRIENDLY:
There's been a wonderful design surge of lighting fixtures made from various earth friendly materials, such as this chandelier constructed from reclaimed wooden wine barrels. The creative use of driftwood has also become quite popular in "green design" and provides a welcoming, organic light source for any room. For a more urban aesthetic, we love the use of eco-friendly bamboo with sleek, contemporary design, as demonstrated in these pendant lamps from Propellor.