By Ashley Zimmermann, Creative Content Director for @designREMODEL

The year continues to move right along, so let’s talk about a few new trends that we’ve seen this year. We’ll start by exploring some creative lighting fixtures and will then move on to some interesting bathroom sinks. Adding on-trend lighting or a statement sink to your remodeling projects will make your space feel modern and polished.

Lighting galore

Mixed metals and textures

Homes & Gardens reminds us that the pandemic has shifted much of our focus into our homes versus in our pre-pandemic lives. Our minds crave stimulation and something beautiful to look at; enter statement-piece lighting fixtures. Again, we emphasize that bold is the way to go. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there with modern interpretations of the chandelier and sculptures.

Layered lighting

Sacha of Leclair Decor suggests that layering lighting is the way to go, meaning adding different sources of light rather than the typical ceiling lighting. He says, “This approach typically includes ambient lighting, accent lighting, task lighting, and general overhead lighting.” He adds that layered lighting is often used in luxury hotels; therefore, this technique can lend a sophisticated touch to your space. Elaborating further, he explains that different types of lighting are used for various purposes, such as general living and relaxation, versus lighting that promotes productivity for working.

Unexpected accessory lighting can also add a high-end touch. Leclair’s shower photo showcases backlighting along the shower wall; this adds the ambiance of a moody, elegant space. This technique also offers a practical purpose: during a recent visit to our 87-year-old grandmother, my sister installed backlighting under the kitchen cabinets because Grammy had difficulty seeing.

Homes & Gardens’s idea to light up your wall art continues the theme of moody, cosmopolitan lighting. Though, be aware that inappropriate lighting could potentially damage artwork, so make sure to utilize the museum method and play it safe with LED lighting. Infinite Sushi says, “The best artificial light source for lighting artworks are LED lights as they have no ultraviolet light, no infrared light, and do not project heat onto the artwork.” Make sure to turn off the backlighting when your household goes to sleep.

Curation

Homes & Gardens tells us:

“2022 will be the year for bespoke and commissioned lighting schemes. When commissioning bespoke joinery, ask the carpenter to make allowances for internal wiring from the start. This will allow for some lights to be built into the unit, removing the need for trailing wires from standalone lamps or wall lights, resulting in a cleaner finish.”

This is a perfect opportunity to work with your contractor to express your vision and creativity. If you are going for a grand or one-of-a-kind lighting plan, your contractor and electrician will be crucial resources to help you execute.

Bathroom sinks

The vessel

Vessel basin sinks are here to stay, at least in the near future. The raised basin sink trend has been around for a while, and though some may argue it is passé, I still see them vessels all over. Minimalistic circular and oval vessels in ceramic, stone, or glass give your bathroom an organic, spa-like oasis feel. Raw, natural, and organic features have maintained popularity in recent years. Part of the explanation stems from our new WFH (work from home) world; if we spend so much time at home, both working and living, we might as well make the home into a place we want to be. Nature-derived materials tend to create a soothing, comfortable atmosphere.

Luxury porcelain

You can elevate the vessel basin by investing in a statement piece. Basins from London Basin Co. are works of art. Their basins perfectly align with the 2021-2022 trends of unapologetically mixing colors and patterns. The Delphine porcelain basin is decorated with birds and blossoms and offers an opportunity to incorporate a gorgeous pattern in your bathroom. KBB Online displays the Delphine against vintage-inspired vertically striped wallpaper topped with semicircular, peacock-looking fans. I’ll say it again: design is all about doing whatever speaks to you and makes you happy. You really can’t go wrong if you do it on purpose.

London Basin Co. tells us: 

“The Delphine basin features a pretty pattern of graceful, gliding cranes, weaving in and out of a dotted trail of delicate white cherry blossoms. Very much in line with the trend for flora and fauna, and featuring a beautiful woad blue backdrop with subtle burnt red accents, it’s a true statement piece that brings masses of decorative detailing to bathroom and cloakroom interiors.” 

LBC says their Agnes model is inspired by Miami, trimming a “lemonade pink” basin interior with a metallic gold rim and square tile exterior. Yasmin is a flowy patchwork of wallpaper-esque designs “where boho-chic meets contemporary bathroom style.”

A “love of being surrounded by stunning things” and Asian and Middle Eastern inspirations define LBC’s designs. These basins are intended to be the bathroom centerpiece. Their basins are luxurious, and as with any work of art, they are priced accordingly. LBC basins are statement pieces in the $1000 range, “Basin waste and faucet not included.”

Project Possibilities

Updating a lighting fixture or two or replacing a bathroom vanity and sink are projects that can be stand-alone or can be incorporated as part of your larger room remodeling projects. Lowe's has two instructional videos to refer to if you want to install a new sink and vanity: “How to Install a Bath Vanity” and “How to Install a Vessel Sink.” This can be a DIY project, but you’ll need to be familiar and comfortable with some basic plumbing techniques. 

Replacing lighting fixtures can also be DIY, but there are some disclaimers:

*Disclaimer 1: Make sure to follow local electrical codes.

*Disclaimer 2: If you lack the skills for proper electrical work (if you are not 100% confident with your skills), seek a licensed professional to help with your project. 

If you are confident to proceed with your lighting fixture updates, this video by The Home Depot can help: “How to Update a Light Fixture.”

Have you recently updated your lighting fixtures or sink and vanity? Please share your ideas below!

References: 

London Basin Company Sophia | Kitchen & Bath Business (kbbonline.com) - London Basin Company Sophia

DELPHINE — London Basin Co. (londonbasincompany.com) - DELPHINE

AGNES — London Basin Co. (londonbasincompany.com) - AGNES

YASMIN — London Basin Co. (londonbasincompany.com) - YASMIN

London Basin Co. Delphine | Kitchen & Bath Business (kbbonline.com) - London Basin Co. Delphine

https://www.londonbasincompany.com/gallery - Gallery

https://www.thespruce.com/2022-lighting-trends-5212464 - 8 Lighting Trends That Will Be Everywhere in 2022

https://www.homesandgardens.com/news/lighting-trends-207692 - Lighting trends 2022 – see the beautiful designs set to brighten our homes next year

https://www.leclairdecor.com/post/sacha-s-guide-to-layered-lighting - Sacha's Guide to Layered Lighting

https://infinite-sushi.com/light-damage-protect-hanging-artwork-harm/ - Light Damage- How to Protect Your Hanging Artwork From Harm

https://atdesignremodel.com/blog/creating-an-oasis-bathroom-destination - Creating an Oasis Bathroom Destination

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMai9QEvqi8 - How To Install A Bathroom Vanity

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6s9bqNqxEM&t=11s - How to Install a Vessel Sink

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PUCo2aXVAU - How to Update a Light Fixture | The Home Depot