Latest Coastal Lighting Trends on Cape Cod

Coastal design is marked by its casual aesthetic, neutral palette (crisp whites, greys, natural tones and shades of blue) and use of natural elements (weathered wood, stone, seashells, rattan and jute) and subtle nautical details (teak, shiplap paneling and brass hardware). The overall effect is a calming and comfortable space that references the sea and evokes memories of time spent along the seashore.

Coastal design elements are very versatile and can be incorporated into other popular design schemes for a layered look that’s unique. Here are four styles our clients are frequently pairing with coastal elements and the lighting selections chosen for each:

Rustic

These designs have a farmhouse feel that embrace darker wood species, metals and black finishes.

This sculptural, sphere-shaped chandelier from the Solaris collection by Crystorama complements the rustic, grey tone beams over a staircase in a recent waterfront home remodel.

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Coastal cottage

Spaces with a coastal cottage charm have a relaxed and casual feel, and may include weathered/distressed finishes, vintage accessories, natural fibers such as rattan and jute and light oak flooring.

This comfy loft sitting area, designed as part of a whole house renovation and addition project, is the epitome of coastal cottage chic with “The Jessa,” a flush-mounted ceiling fixture with a jute drum shade from Crystorama.

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Contemporary

Contemporary coastal design features clean lines, a neutral palette and organic elements for a refined look.

The Serpentina Chandelier from Currey & Company, with an antique black finish, boldly contrasts with the neutral palette of this new home, while the fixture’s wave-like shape complements the interior’s organic design elements.

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Traditional

These timeless designs tend to be more formal, with detailed trim and molding and lighting fixtures that are often inspired by the past, such as lanterns and candles.

This chandelier with a bronze finish from Visual Comfort’s Square Tube collection by Chapman & Myers adds an understated elegance to the primary bedroom of a new home build designed to look historic.

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To add a pop of style to a room, our Selections Coordinator will often look to pendants, chandeliers and sconces. Currently, brushed gold, brushed nickel and black are top finish choices, according to our Selections Coordinator. When asked what’s the most popular lighting collection among her clients, she cites the Darlana collection, designed by Chapman & Myers for Visual Comfort.

The Darlana Lantern has a traditional look that feels modern, thanks to its geometric shape, open framework and gilded iron finish, as seen in this recent McPhee Associates renovation project.

With so many lighting designers, companies and manufacturers, there is no shortage of stylish lighting fixtures to choose from – but that can also make the search for the perfect home lighting all the more daunting. Our Selections Coordinator is an expert at helping homeowners choose their home lighting fixtures and has developed a list of her favorite lighting companies, selected for their quality and stylish designs. Here are a few of her favorites to help inspire your next project:

• Circa Lighting
• Crystorama
• Currey & Company
• Hinkley Lighting
• Hubbardton Forge
• Kohler
• Serena & Lily
• Visual Comfort Company