If you’re looking to create a space of connection, uniqueness and intimacy, lighting is the most underestimated port of call in sprucing up a welcome area, a statement social hub dull or revitalising an impersonal space. This year the focus in 2024 is on the hand-made across five key trends where no two lights are the same, writes Cameron Pine.

SOKTAS, a sustainable lighting company on the Gold Coast continues to create universally appealing pieces using Norwegian techniques and traditions passed down through generations. Here we look at five key trends in lighting so you know what you’re getting will last, was produced sustainably and will stand the test of timeless.

Sustainable

Sustainable lighting solutions are an important future flex. High energy consumption lights are outdated and environmentally, energy-efficient LED technologies are gripping the market. New LED lights are leading the design files too with their versatility in lighting design. If you want a light to make a big statement and be on all the time to create mood, elevate your aesthetic and create conversation, the last thing you want is it to be adding bucket loads to your electricity bill.

Not only this but all SOKTAS lights are made by hand in a completely solar powered factory in Currumbin and all lights feature the latest low consumption LED’s– designed to create just lighting effects and not heat, like so many traditional lighting features do. They also use recycled glass for many of their designs and production processes to ensure minimum impact on resources.

Smart Light Solutions

It’s safe to say we’ve come a long way since the simple on/off switch. Lights that are connected to apps and software make it easy to create a mood without fumbling for a switch, enabling you to control the lights with one touch only.  Dimmable options are essential for creating that ideal mood and atmosphere and, if used in business, you can set up to control remotely or for specific times to ensure you have your best foot forward always.  Smart lighting solutions enable you to control the brightness and colour of your lights with smartphones or watches and, in 2024, smart lighting technology is going to become more prevalent. With voice-activated assistants and home automation systems, smart lighting is the rising trend in interior design. All hand-made SOKTAS lights are compatible/dimmable with any other smart features, with wall lights and pendants being popular across luxury and commercial projects across the country.

Minimalist Aesthetic

Considering the aesthetic and utilitarian nature of lighting techniques are constantly changing, minimalistic lighting will dominate in 2024. The complicated or over-ornate chandelier is a thing of the past and those who prefer simplicity with elegance will like this interior lighting trend with clean lines, neutral colours and simple designs. Think frosted glass that’s hand-blown backed by on-trend travertine for the ultimate statement that’s not over the top. SOKTAS Coral Travertine and Coral wall medium continue to be best-sellers due to their soft, minimal aesthetic but maximum impact in adding warmth and atmosphere to even small spaces.

Wall Sconce Lighting

Rather than the common solution for the overhead or strip light to create light in a space, wall sconces create intimacy and atmosphere in entrances, waiting areas, bathrooms and more. What’s more, they act like works of art on the wall, drawing the attention away from the ceiling and providing a modern feel. Wall sconces like the Flo Round create a soft, diffused light that can be added to any existing lighting in a room without being overbearing.  They are particularly popular where space is scarce or for task lighting or for places you need strong light for reading.

Artistic and Sculptural Lighting

Third generation glass artist, Oliver Höglund’s craft has been passed down to him from his father, Ola Höglund and grandfather, Erik Höglund. When purchasing SOKTAS lights you get a unique story and a timeless piece of art.

Each hand-made piece sits across a variety of wall lights, pendant lights, outdoor lights and table lights to suit spaces needing a dramatic multi-tiered solution or a simple hand-blown shape that’s somewhat natural and obscure and like no other. Artistic flair in lighting is as important as an artwork itself.

The skills and techniques learned by Oliver since 2001 have allowed him to develop his craft and create his own signature style through a process of hand-blowing glass is rigorous and intense, as the molten hot glass is shaped and blown by hand at around 1000° C – just another one of the many reason SOKTAS lights are sought after in demand by developers and interior design brands alike.

Sculptural elements like works of art that are designed to be timeless have taken centre stage with the Coral Trio or Coral Linear Rod and Coral Linear Pendant popular due to their artistic flair.

Overall, 2024 offers an exciting future for interior lighting as consumers are looking for one-off designs and a more hand-crafted approach to lighting. SOKTAS recognises this trend with each of their products being hand-made and in demand by leading architects, interior designers and furniture brands throughout the country to enhance their showrooms and customer offerings. These trends will not only illuminate your home, brand or business but also enhance the beauty and comfort level and ultimately the value of your space.

For more information visit www.soktas.co

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