Designer Light Fixtures That Will Never Go Out of Style
Happy Friday, friends! We’ve got a big lighting sale going on in my shop right now (20% off all light fixtures at Tuesday Made), and it had me thinking about a question I’m often asked, “How do you know which fixtures will be a good longterm?” You know… the ones you’ll still love years from now, the fixtures that aren’t going out of style, and can easily adapt if and when your aesthetic evolves. It’s a valid question, and it made me begin to think of lighting as a capsule collection- just like we do with clothing. I wanted to curate a collection of just 15 fixtures that I’m positive will never go out of style. Consider it my personal light fixture capsule collection… click through to see it and my reasoning. They’re also all 20% off at the moment!
If you missed my post on tips for layering lighting like a designer, that’s another must-read! Even if you buy timeless fixtures, they are best installed alongside other fixtures for a curated and layered look.
What is a Capsule Collection?
A capsule collection is comprised of a few essentials that are high quality, classic, well crafted, and are meant to be layered for a timeless look representative of your personality. In lighting, the idea is the same… invest in classic pieces that will withstand the time, then you can supplement with less expensive or trendy items, if you wish. I’d splurge on permanent (hardwired) fixtures like chandeliers, pendants, sconces, and flush mounts. Plug-in fixtures such as lamps and gallery lights are typically more affordable and are easier to swap. My philosophy is always to purchase home items with longevity in mind, and lighting should be no different.
Timeless Light Fixtures Have This In Common…
What does a good capsule light collection include? Multiple light sources and fixture types! Again, it’s all about layering light sources. I’d also keep these points in mind when creating your own collection…
- Timeless shapes or historic profiles
- Heavy, well made fixtures (no cheap brass or plastic)
- Quality craftsmanship
- Classic materials (metal with a nice weight, milk glass, seeded glass, plaster, etc)
- Updated electrical (pronged plugs, energy efficient, etc)
My Capsule Lighting Picks
Click directly on each fixture below to be redirected.
We offer quite a few fixtures in the Tuesday Made shop, but I wanted to narrow it down to 15 classic picks… all of which feel worthy of a capsule collection to me! Here are the essentials covered in my above collection:
- Classic Brass Chandelier // A timeless brass chandelier with pleated silk shades.
- Exterior Sconce // A simple, yet unique porch light with just the right amount of detail… making this a classic exterior fixture.
- Polished Nickel Pendant // A white enamel pendant perfect for the kitchen, laundry room, mudroom, or bath… complete with a polished nickel (or brass) finish.
- Classic Globe Pendant // Globe pendants never go out of style. I prefer the old bronze finish. It complements the milk glass shade and industrial chain.
- Polished Nickel Semi Flush Mount // A curvy semi flush mount with a polished nickel canopy that would be optimal for any room… in fact, I’ll be installing it in our basement kitchen renovation.
- Brass Semi Flush Mount // This opal glass semi flush mount has the right amount of accentuating metal accents, and comes in two timeless finishes.
- Brass Sconce // These brass sconces have the most beautiful profile, and the sconce shade is easy to swap for updating the look.
- Traditional Chandelier // Swooping oversized chandeliers have been around for ages, this is a favorite with a monochromatic plaster finish.
- Apothecary Floor Lamp // Apothecary floor lamps are another timeless fixture we’ve been admiring for decades. I prefer a brass finish!
- Classic Bath Light // Don’t leave bathroom or wet-rated light fixtures out of your capsule collection. Simple is usually better in this application.
- Bronze Lantern Sconce // Lantern sconces have been used (with candles) since the beginning of time, and won’t be going anywhere.
- Crystal Table Lamp // I love how these translucent lamps capture and bounce the light. If you need ideas for styling crystal table lamps, check out this post.
- Bronze Hinged Sconce // Hinge armed sconces are a necessity. They’re perfect for a bedside, reading nook, or living space.
- Brass Flush Mount // Is there anything more classic than simple flush mounts repeated? A couple in a kitchen, lining a hallway, or illuminating other utilitarian spaces.
- Classic Picture Light // This brass picture light is the perfect permanent (hard wired) solution to light art or cabinetry in a timeless way.
FAQ
I enjoy that our light fixtures feel like they were cut from the same cloth. I think it can vary, but I do like consistency under the same roof. Check out this post on 15 tips for designing a home that looks cohesive.
Probably the Windsor chandelier in our entryway… the big reveal is coming soon!
Yes- use code LIGHTING20 for 20% off all light fixtures! The sale ends 2/20/24.
Absolutely! One of my favorite vintage light fixtures would have to be a good bouillotte lamp.
I hope you enjoyed this post! I’m gearing up for a busy weekend of house projects ahead. What’s on your agenda? We have so many fun things in the works I’m looking forward to sharing soon. Have a great weekend, friends!