Designing with Light: Master 3 Trending Aesthetics

Three very different interior design trends have been sweeping the design world off its feet lately: Luxe Industrial, Maximalism and Cottage Core. Luxe Industrial focuses on raw, practical elements with a touch of luxury and sophistication, while Cottage Core embraces a cozy countryside feel. Maximalism is all about abundance and mixing diverse styles and patterns.

Each trend offers a unique atmosphere and visual experience for those drawn to their respective styles. Let's explore these trends.

Luxe Industrial: Rich in Style

Luxe industrial design draws inspiration from raw, unfinished spaces like warehouses and factories. Common features include utilitarian and rustic elements such as exposed brick walls, metal pipes, concrete floors and reclaimed wood. The color palette tends to be neutral, with shades of gray, brown, black, and sometimes industrial-inspired pops of color. Furniture often features simple, functional designs with a focus on practicality.

Luxe Industrial lighting incorporates high-quality materials such as polished metals, crystal, and glass and refined finishes like brushed metals, antique patinas, or glossy surfaces, contributing to the sense of luxury while maintaining an industrial edge. Their designs feature intricate details, like ornate filigree work, decorative patterns, engraved accents, geometric shapes, curves, and more artistic forms.

Cottage Core: Warm & Cozy Ambiance

Cottage Core is a design trend that celebrates the charm of rural and countryside living. It's all about creating a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere using natural materials, floral patterns, and vintage aesthetics. Soft pastel colors and earthy tones dominate the color palette. Furniture is often a mix of vintage and handcrafted pieces, giving a sense of warmth and comfort. Textiles like lace, gingham, and floral prints are commonly used for upholstery and decor. Cottage Core spaces usually feature plenty of plants, handmade crafts, and elements that evoke a sense of being close to nature.

Cottage Core lighting tends to favor softer and more subdued lighting options, complementing the cozy and rustic feel of the interior design style. Warm and gentle light sources, such as warm-white LED lights, are commonly used to create a comforting and nostalgic atmosphere. Lighting designs may be crafted from natural materials like wood, rattan, or metal with an antique or distressed finish, enhancing the connection to nature. Some cottage core spaces may incorporate whimsical lighting elements to add a touch of enchantment.

Maximalism: Design to the Max

Maximalism is a bold and vibrant design trend characterized by abundant patterns, colors, textures, and decor elements. The key here is "more is more." Maximalist interiors are filled with art, collectibles, and decorative items with diverse styles and influences combined within the same space. The color palette can vary widely and often mixes patterns like geometric shapes, florals, and bold prints. Furniture can range from antique to modern as long as it contributes to the vivid layered aesthetic.

Maximalist lighting design can encompass a wide range of lighting fixtures, from intricate chandeliers to modern pendant lights. The key is to embrace diversity and combine various styles. Maximalist interiors often feature bold and eye-catching lighting fixtures that serve as focal points within the space and contribute to the visual richness of the room. They may incorporate a mix of materials, such as glass, metal, crystal, vibrant colors, gilded accents, or intricate patterns, with the goal of creating an opulent and diverse look.

Which design style is your favorite? If these trends aren’t “you”, find your style using our guide.