The vintage ceiling light: Choose character for your interior
Whether you are a fan of vintage style or simply looking for an original decorative look for your interior, retro vintage ceiling lights have the ability to change the perception of the environment and the comfort of the room. Their choice is therefore crucial!
When we talk about vintage, it is appropriate to define the era. In the United States, for example, this term has a legal framework. It refers to an object that must be at least 20 years old, up to 100 years. Beyond that, it is considered antique. But in the collective imagination, the term “vintage” when it comes to ceiling lights mainly refers to lamps from the 1920s up to the 1980s, to take a broad range. This includes industrial style, but also the baroque look as well as Scandinavian lighting, and many others.
Nowadays, you can choose to bring back to life vintage ceiling lights found in your grandmother's boxes, or by buying them online, or even by opting for retro models. That is to say, a modern chandelier or a contemporary interior light fixture imitating the old style. These are generally equipped with recent technology, ranging from the compact fluorescent lamp to the light-emitting diode with a built-in dimmer, adjustable via remote control. Yes, vintage does not mean outdated, or incompatible with technological advances!
How to choose my vintage ceiling light?
First of all, you should think about the light fixture you would like to see recessed in your ceiling. This depends partly on your personal tastes, and:
- The layout of your home
- The choice of material (clear glass, metal, fabric)
- The shape of the vintage ceiling light.
- The size of the room
- The lighting
Do you want a crystal model? In glass and in the shape of a rosette? Or perhaps an industrial vintage ceiling light, with a black aluminum structure? Various styles are possible to recreate the atmosphere of a bygone era, which still persists today because its charm is timeless.
An old ceiling light suited to the room
For a living room, vintage ceiling lights must blend naturally into your environment. It must even fulfill a harmonious decorative function when it is turned off. The size of your living room is also important. For a living room of less than 20 square meters, a minimalist vintage ceiling light of less than 40 centimeters will be able to diffuse a flow of light throughout the room.
For large living rooms or lofts, industrial vintage lighting in copper or lacquered metal inspired by the factories of the 1930s is a good choice.
Opting for a mix of matte black, frosted gray metal and iron mesh with an exposed filament bulb are beautiful decorations to illuminate your living room, especially above a coffee table.
For living-dining rooms, ceiling lights in opal glass with a modern compact fluorescent bulb, diffusing a light tinted in matte white, recall the universe of the 70s.
Depending on the material
As you have understood, metal and glass are two very popular components among vintage ceiling lights. They reflect distinct styles, but remain typical of the 20th century!
For a strictly minimalist style, we like clear glass bells. These ceiling lights can be adorned with details such as old flowers or baroque patterns.
The Nordic look also corresponds to the universe of old lamps. A classic model is the ceiling light with articulated arms, including visible bulbs. This creates a warm atmosphere. Old Nordic models with a brown or mustard yellow linen lampshade are just as decorative.
The mix of wood and metal is also relevant for a vintage ceiling light! You can opt for a recessed ceiling light in aged beech wood, with rusty and mesh-covered adjustable spotlights! This is a mix between retro Nordic wood, and the industrial look of the 1930s. All with LED lighting.
The color of the old ceiling light
There are several types of colors for old ceiling lights. Brass and copper, with a frosted and metallic look are quite popular and rustic, while neutral colors like matte black or off-white are still in fashion today. These last two colors, with their soft and sober elegance are very trendy and will be for a long time to come without a doubt.
If you want bolder colors typical of vintage interior decor, brick red, mustard yellow and olive glass are also typical of vintage chandeliers. These colors are concentrated on the recessed base, as well as on the lampshades. But also in the coloring of blown glass.
For Scandinavian vintage ceiling lights, opt for neutral or pastel colors mentioned above. In the case of industrial chandeliers and ceiling lights, dark shades like black, rust and dark gray metal are good choices. Also discover our modern ceiling lights.