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New technology is radically altering our interiors, all for the better, argues Steve Jones, co-founder of British furniture and lighting brand, Innermost.

Product: Core
Project: Hotel
Location: Vienna, Austria
Project and photo: BWM Architekten

“For years tech got in the way; since the first electrification of houses, interiors have been filled with trailing cables and routing things via nails right until recent times when the computer and the mass of AV gadgets in our living rooms took over.

I first started my career in the furniture industry designing office furniture for brands like Knoll and Vitra; back in the 80s and 90s, everything was about ‘cable management’ which really should have been called camouflage and control. When I look at modern office furniture I think today’s designers have it easy!

I’m now in lighting and there is little in a modern interior – other than the air we breath – that affects our view of a space more than light. Little more than 20 years ago domestic lighting had little choice and aside from a few very high-end brands, the most control you could get was a rotary dimmer. I remember when we first started Innermost and offered a dimmer unit on a product to a major UK retailer (who will remain nameless) I was told that it was a ‘luxury people won’t pay for’.  Well 20 years later we are on the brink of a human-centric lighting boom and we now offer control systems that ‘people’ can control from their phones – and they love it. It’s changed not just the lights people choose but how they use them and even when.

That same technology being wireless has not brought excessive cabling and this means the new tech isn’t just the preserve of new builds; you could put it into a grade 1 listed building without negative impact; no nails to bang.  More than that I can’t remember the last time I used a light switch in my own home, I just have the app open.  Will we remove light switches? It would certainly make decorating a lot easier.  My son who was given the app when as a 6 year old he was still scared of the dark does delight in turning the lights off whenever a guest goes into the toilet – for that reason so we won’t be getting e-locks in our apartment anytime soon; another area where the traditional copper and brass hardware has given way to tech.

I recall a report back when flatscreens were new that the demise of the cathode ray tube for brokers and bankers would free up 20% of all the office space in the city of London; dark predictions were made of empty office spaces and downward rents. That of course was ridiculous but in back to back desk layouts the idea that 20% of the space we had was dedicated to the CRT monitor was just something we’d got used to.  It took a few years but the same thing then happened with LED TV’s in the home; our living rooms suddenly looked bigger.  Now you can hang them on the wall and Samsung just showed a screen that ; a product that really is there when you need it.

Interior designers and architects now understand the issues and are seeing how they need to design to get the best; my feeling is that in the future we will not only choose materials based on how we need to route signals but that ‘data-flow’ analysis might become a thing. If it does then you read it here first. Simply we will require our designers to create spaces that allow data to move and things to be seen no matter where they are within the interior.  I’m going to call it ‘Daflo’ analysis!

Remember just before cell phones boomed and there were 10 different phone companies all installing boxes on the streets and we all groaned at the impact; then cell phones meant all of that was scrapped and in a way, we cleaned up our streets a little.

After computers messed up our homes it was the turn of mobile phones to create cable tangles and the need for extension sockets to be trailed alongside chairs and all over offices.  The first change we saw was that the USB socket was included in ever more products allowing us to charge but now wireless charging potentially means cables will be within furniture (again) but this time surfaces will be clean.”

For more from Steve Jones on Technology, Furniture & Lighting, follow him on LinkedIn.

At Innermost we love a bespoke project and being challenged by our customers to achieve their exact lighting project specifications. We often create totally bespoke pieces for clients, but a big part of our day to day challenges include customising products from the range to create something of a different size, material, colour or configuration. We thought we’d share our top 5 contemporary lighting pendants that we get asked to modify most often, and what we change from the original.

Spun Pendants

What we change: Colour

Most often adapted by colour – we get many requests for specific paint jobs on the Spun Pendants to match another hue in an interior.

In fact, we get so many requests for personalising the colour that we are bringing out a custom colour service at the end of summer! We will offer 20 standard colours to choose from (and many more on request) with a quick turnaround and a minimum of only 1 unit..! This will be available on Circus, but also pendants such as Foundry. We are also able to change cable colours as well as the shades, so there is the opportunity to get creative with bespoke combinations. 

Jeeves

What we change: Configuration & interior reflector

We often get asked to turn Jeeves pendants into unique chandeliers, which always look fantastic. Like this bespoke piece at the Lai Bun Fu Restaurant in Hong Kong.

We are also often asked to change the interior reflector to match the decor of a project, such as above the mannequins in this Harvey Nichols store, which were changed from gold to silver.

Snowdrop

What we change: Cap, ceiling rose & cable

Snowdrop is available in a juicy selection of colours but we can also offer other variations! Change the colour of the ‘caps’, the ceiling rose or choose contrasting cables to make it your own.

Lampshades

What we change: Materials & colour

After 18 years, we continue to produce most of our lampshades in the UK, at our facility in Shropshire. This ownership over the entire allows us to guarantee the highest standards of quality, as well as giving us the flexibility to make a quantity of 1 to 1000+.

For lampshades, the possibilities are endless: we are only limited by your imagination!

Asteroid

What we change: Whatever you can imagine! (just not a different size)

Asteroid is a product that is not inherently easy to adapt but it was in producing 2 ‘special requests’ that lead to the clear & dichromatic glass versions that are now a part of the range.

These popular changes prove that even better versions can come out of initial ideas and we are always open to working with our clients to develop something new. The custom colour Circus range and diachromatic Asteroid lights are just some examples where client input has initiated exciting & innovative developments. If you have ideas or requests for customised product, we would love to hear from you and for you to put us to the test!

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With 2019 just around the corner, we’ve been looking ahead at what we think the main trends of lighting will be next – from technical updates to colour schemes and materials. Check out our predictions for the biggest lighting trends that are coming with the new year.

Colour

A big lighting trend we see for 2019 is celebrating colour and bringing accent shades into interiors, particularly for residential properties.

Ceilings have been largely monochrome in recent years, but 2019 brings a myriad of colour options, and at Innermost we are launching a bespoke custom colour service, offering some of our best-selling lights in a colour of your choice. Whether it’s matching a feature interior accessory or combining a number of bright tones to define the space, 2019 is the time to get creative with colour.

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Connectivity

Technology continues to bring innovation and the new buzzword in lighting is: control. This year we announced a Bluetooth Mesh option for all our major pendant ranges, allowing our lights to be controlled wirelessly. From full dimming to some colour tuning options, the flexible system can be paired with a single lamp or with complex configurations. This can all be achieved and controlled from a free app by Casambi, which combines ease of installation and optimal functionality(with Bluetooth switches also available). Lighting control will continue to grow as a trend in 2019, as the home becomes ‘smart’ in many new ways.

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Cordless lighting

Though there are still many limitations, and many practical considerations, such as environmental responsibility, cordless lighting is gaining popularity and we have plans to develop a cordless option for some of our popular table lights. This will also allow the trend of flexible indoor to outdoor lighting to grow. While it is too soon to release any specifics, cordless lighting is an area to keep an eye on during 2019, so do watch this space for future releases.

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Industrial

Though not a new trend, we see the industrial style continuing to be a strong theme for lighting in 2019.

Simplistic spun metal shades are ubiquitous, and we launched our ‘industrially-inspired’ Foundry pendant this Summer. Bringing a workshop aesthetic to the collection, we will continue to expand this design into a bigger range over 2019.

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All the metallics

Luxe metallics continue to be a hugely popular interior trend, with their use in lighting making a particularly dramatic statement. Gold in particular is huge for 2019, and will be given a fresh look, paired with raw materials and natural shades. Check out our Panel &  Facet chandeliers for statement metallic inspiration.

Lighting bars and restaurants correctly are essential for good ambience – whether the vibe is moody or bright, the lighting should be a key consideration.

Bars & restaurants mostly require subdued lighting to give an ambient & relaxed atmosphere but there is plenty more to consider…

Consider the light temperature

The temperature can change not only the way an interior feels but also the way that food is presented. Fine dining restaurants tend to use warmer lighting that creates a more cosy atmosphere, compared to fast food restaurants, which use bright, cooler temperature light to enhance a lively atmosphere and high turnover. It might sound basic, but taking the time to consider what temperature and effect are required is something that should be done early on.

Play with scale

Don’t be afraid to use oversized pendants and large-scale clusters. Large overhead lights can be extremely successful if you have the luxury of high ceilings. The large Circus pendants at Euro Cucina restaurant look fantastic.

Experiment with colour

If you want to incorporate colour, while not use lighting? Pops of colour suspended in the middle of the room can create a wonderful effect and bring interest to a more subdued or monochrome decor. The yellow Stupa with red cable brings fun and interest to this restaurant in Moscow.

Install multiple fittings

To create various ‘zones’ and give the interior a more boutique feel, don’t be afraid of mixing styles and types of fixtures. Modern designer lights can be playful and experimental while also be efficient and durable. Mix and match styles for a contemporary and dynamic effect, like the Beads and Buckle used simultaneously at the Gaucho Restaurant in Dubai.

Add control functionality

Consider the ability to easily adjust, dim or monitor your lighting. For example, select fixtures that can use bluetooth control, offering an easy way to make lighting fit the changing atmosphere and mood. Innermost products can be paired with Casambi, which has a simple user interface that anyone can operate, via tablets, iPhones or switches. If you will be using the space for various events, the ability to easily manipulate and change the light output will be invaluable.

Consider the lighting at the start of the project

Lighting can make the project by bringing a new element of design, layers of light or a feature area. Don’t neglect it in your plans and research quality modern lighting for hospitality. Here are some great examples to get you started.

Ensure the guests can read their menus!

Though low-level lighting is great for atmospheric bars, it’s still important that customers can see what they are ordering at a comfortable level. Making guests get their iPhone torches out is not a good look! Test bulbs and the overall effect when it is dark outside to be sure you haven’t taken ‘atmospheric’ too far.

Use contemporary spot lighting above tables.

Using spot lighting above the tables brings focus to the meal and can look fantastic- just be careful not to blind guests.

Consider diffusers

To give the right level of light and avoid blinding guests with glare, diffusers can be essential. This allows you to experiment with many different lamp shades while covering bare bulbs and providing a softer light. Innermost have a custom lampshade service and can provide diffusers for any design.

Invest in Modern Lighting Design

Whether designing for a traditional or contemporary space the interior will benefit from good contemporary fittings.  Ultra modern can create amazing contrast in a period interior and a bit of industrial grunge can work with polished modern surfaces and slick minimalism.

 

Lighting can make a huge difference to the overall feeling of your restaurant and bar is an investment in so at each stage be sure to consider the comfort and enjoyment of your guests. Do get in touch if you’d like any more advice or inspiration for your next project!

 

 

Co-working is not only redefining the way people work, but the way offices are designed. This smart, shared workplace revolution is taking place worldwide and has lead to new demand for innovative and contemporary lighting solutions. As co-working spaces increase in popularity, so does demand for lighting that is beautifully considered and works within multipurpose, adaptable spaces.

Co-working spaces often consist of multiple modular areas and different set-ups for various work and break-out spaces. It is no longer a case of choosing just one type of fitting to light an office, but designers must mix a number of modern lighting styles to highlight a variety of social spaces.

Contemporary co-working spaces must create a balance between an impression of homeliness and professionalism. Lighting is a major component when it comes to workspace design. From computer desks to meeting rooms or ‘chill-out spaces’, lighting can help or hinder when setting the right tone and ambiance of a space.

Colours play a key role in defining space illumination, and bright colours can help create a sense of increased lighting and better amplitude.

In this Coca-Cola office, colourful Snowdrop lights have been used to bring colour and interest to the jolly canteen. The selected innermost products reflect the fun and vibrancy of the interior at the offices in Madrid.https://www.innermost.net/projects/snowdrop-by-stone-designs-at-coca-cola-spain/

Co-working spaces require areas of privacy and quiet, and a booth, like the one used in the Coca-Cola office, provides the desired comfort level for smaller meetings or independent work. Such spaces enable a level of privacy and comfort away from the desk, which helps to improve concentration while not feeling shut off from the rest of the office. Glaze has been used to beautiful effect within the retro-style booths- softly lighting the space and bringing a combination of textures for a stylish finish.As experts in office design and smart workspace transformations, Peldon Rose have styled numerous beautiful & efficient co-working spaces. With their ethos to transform office design for the benefit of people and business, they create offices that reflect the unique identity of each company. They recently used Innermost lighting pendants in their refurbishment of the Pret a Manger head office, featuring a mixture of classic pendants as well as bespoke pieces produced by innermost.https://www.innermost.net/projects/pret-a-manger/

Clusters of beautiful Circus were used in white throughout the space, and Jeeves pendants brought personality to the interior.  From the striking use of standard innermost products to the bespoke illuminated coffee cups, this project speaks of the creativity and quality behind the Pret a Manger brand, with thoughtful illumination.

This converted warehouse space in East London gives an industrial backdrop to the simultaneously playful and functional Gable, used in red. The huge windows and concrete floor of this minimal office are accented by five of the long LED task-lights, suspended from the high ceiling. Gable brings a burst of colour and a welcome alternative to the nasty fluorescent strips of traditional office lighting.https://www.innermost.net/projects/studio-office/

To create a balance, it is important to have areas designed specifically with low lighting to encourage relaxation and create a calming space. In this LinkedIn office in New York, the Jeeves Wall brings British charm and gentle illumination to the dark walls of this breakout area.https://www.innermost.net/projects/linkedin-new-york-office/

Another amazing space that has been tastefully transformed by Peldon Rose is the new Moo office in Farringdon. Although it is not a co-working space, they have adapted many of the same design devices to create an office that is fully flexible, comfortable and approachable. From the sofas & classic furniture used, to the Circus pendants which hang over their meeting area, each design choice has been made with domestic comfort in mind.

http://www.lapsefilm.com/#portfolio

The co-working environment has inspired a new way of designing office space, not just for shared office buildings but for many companies looking to embrace the ethos of contemporary workplaces with a strong company culture. To create a place that supports and encourages innovation, offices need to balance private and communal spaces, by using thoughtful domestic styling. Within these spaces the selection of good quality lighting is essential, adding to an environment of productivity and well-being.

Retail lighting can be tricky to spec but by using the right decorative lighting, you truly can transform a store and bring a whole new image to the interior. Lighting does not only create the right inviting environment for customers but can save energy, spotlight best-selling products and make a dynamic impact in store.

With the long opening hours, energy efficiency is an important consideration, as well as the ability to easily adjust, dim or monitor your lighting. The use of Bluetooth control can be a huge benefit in a retail environment, offering an easy way to lower output as well as make lighting fit the changing atmosphere and mood. For example, our products can be integrated with Casambi Bluetooth control system which offers ease of installation and optimal functionality with minimal additional hardware and deployment costs. The user interface is made in a way that anyone can operate it, via tablets, iPhones or switches, so it’s a great choice for inside a retail environment where multiple staff need to access the lighting control.

Modern lighting can transform a space – it is more than just considering ambient lighting, but also how spot-lighting and directional lights can draw customers to the key areas of a store. By selecting contemporary designer lights that provide beautiful lighting, you are also investing in the longevity of the installation since they can be integrated with the latest technology and updated with changes in lighting trends.

Contemporary Ceiling Lights can be used in so many ways to excellent effect, and we have selected some of our favorite retail projects to inspire and guide you.

Isetan department store, Tokyo, Japan

We love this recent installation inside Isetan, a high end department store in Tokyo, where multiple white Stupa create a bright and luxurious display. By keeping the colors monochrome, but using a mixture of the 2 sizes of Stupa, the effect is sophisticated yet dynamic. Beauty departments stores demand bright lighting

Furla, London, UK

The reflections of the Facet Chandelier in this Regent Street Store bounce around the polished metal shelving and coving highlights to compliment the design and product. Here a singular chandelier creates a great impact – in a store where less is more and all items on display are minimal and exude luxury. The highly reflective chandelier looks contemporary and smart as a centerpiece.

Metro Department Store, Singapore

Beads & Bubble have been used in copper tones through the Metro department store in Singapore to highlight the product displays. The highly reflective pendants contribute to the glamorous feel of this high-end store.

Mint Velvet, Guildford, UK

The Circus pendant lights have been installed in multiple venues in the UK but Mint Velvet achieve a beautiful installation using a huge cluster of the grey and black pendants in all 3 sizes. This installation makes a fantastic decorative display in the window of this fashion & interior store.

Gift shop, Barcelona, Spain

The candy colored lamps bring the playfulness to this gift shop in Barcelona. A great example of a retail store that is using lighting as playful interior decor – the pendants hang low and are very much a part of the retail environment.

Morgan Furniture showroom, London, UK

Latitude has been used to fantastic effect, hanging at various lengths in this lively furniture showroom in central London, UK. Morgan, who manufacture ‘truly original, high-quality furniture’, have mixed the red, white and black pendant spotlights, all facing different directions, along two sets of tracking. The result is an exciting and playful ceiling light display which serves to highlight and compliment Morgan’s assorted furniture collection.

Harvey Nichols department store, UK

Using lighting to add a feature and personality to a store can be extremely effect. These Jeeves Pendants were given special silver reflectors to add light above these Mannequins, while adding extra character to the display.

Everyone wants control; it’s the new buzz in lighting. Smart phone, smart home.

We’re now pleased to offer Bluetooth Mesh options for all our major pendant ranges. These new advances will allow any Innermost light to be controlled wirelessly – from full dimming to some colour tuning options – using a flexible system that can be paired with a single lamp or with complex configurations. This can all be achieved and controlled from a free app by Casambi, which combines ease of installation and optimal functionality (with Bluetooth switches also available).

What is Bluetooth Mesh?

Bluetooth mesh works by linking multiple bulbs or fittings in a chain so each unit can communicate and relay a message to any other unit. There are multiple benefits to Bluetooth, it uses less energy than Wi-Fi and won’t slow down your internet connection; most importantly, there is no extra kit to buy and you don’t lose control of your lights if your Wi-Fi crashes.  Pairing and system set-up is incredibly simple and can be used instantly, without the need for hubs or routers. There are many more in-depth features to explore; allowing the user to configure, save and recall scenes or animations, use motion sensors, define timers using sunrise/sunset, and much more.

This means now that whether it’s just one light in your living room or one thousand lights in your office building, you can get the same level of sophisticated lighting control without the expense or installation disruption of a traditional control system. Perfect for situations like listed buildings where it is not an option to run new cabling, or projects with tight budgets but where programmable lighting control is still needed.

Most importantly all the units and bulbs work together, once paired they sit in a single network that allows the user total control over a group or a single unit no matter what the source or driver type. Pair it and forget about it.

Bluetooth control works with most of the range, so you can have the most beautiful and unique lighting with the latest technology and control solutions. Compatible with Casambi, also used by Occio, Osram and Reggiani. Later this year we will also offer a Circadian rhythm option; a truly human centric lighting source to provide the best light for the time of day or the activity you are doing at the time.

Bluetooth options can now be added to any Innermost pendant order, with the option of colour tuning if an E27 fitting.  This is an integrated solution that is elegant, practical and affordable with a delightful and modern smartphone user experience.

We are offering bluetooth options with only a £35 to £50 surcharge.

Get in touch with us for more information and to discuss your next project!

We had an absolutely fantastic night celebrating the Darc Awards at Fabric last week! Our installation of Kepler & Brixton looked superb in the cavernous interior of the iconic Fabric nightclub, and became one of the most Instagrammed displays of the night!

As a unique addition to Darc Night, we had designed a special version of the futuristic luminaire, Kepler, as a one-off floor lamp. Using the same highly innovative materials as the pendant light, 3 of the specially designed free-standing units were installed in the “Gallery” area of the Darc Awards venue.

We were also delighted to be shortlisted in the Ceiling category for our Kepler pendant light. The night is always great, but the standard this year was incredibly high and we are very proud to be an original sponsor. Co-founder, Russell Cameron commented ‘All awards evenings should be this good!!’

For a closer look at our installation, watch the video highlights here.

Thanks Darc, see you next year!