Casual Lighting

Fundamentals of Casual Style Lighting

Informal and comfortable, Casual Style Lighting is defined by its focus on creating spaces that are soft and inviting, but also chic. Casual style does follow many rules of traditional interior design but leaves the door open for asymmetrical layouts and large-scale furniture and soft lighting that creates an easy-going comfy feeling in the space. Its goal is to invite guests to sit back and relax with a look that’s easy on the eye and extremely livable.

Characteristics of Casual Lighting

Casual Lighting uses clean and simple lines, subtle curves, natural textures, and seeded glass shades for a subtle elegance that doesn’t overwhelm the senses. Casual style is more than a look for those who live by the beach. It is a beautiful and strong aesthetic that includes organic fibers such as wool, cotton and silk, earth tone hues and soft white fabrics that promote a relaxed sensibility. Natural materials such as stone, wood, and leather are also key elements.

Casual statement lighting such as chandeliers, pendants or sconces can include something rustic in feel, an organic rattan look or hints of brass or copper. Many fixtures use filtered or seeded glass and organic shades to diffuse the light to create a warm ambient glow that is relaxing and welcoming.

When it comes to casual style table and floor lamps, look for anything with very simple graphic shapes, thrown pottery bases, wood bases, or metal accents. No fancy scrollwork, no fringe, no extra baubles or pulls, and definitely no bright colors. The light fixtures of this style are all fairly down-to-earth in both appearance and function although tend to have a handmade look to them with refined and beautiful shapes.