This autumn, Forbes & Lomax is promoting its Painted range of switches and sockets. Designed to complement the famous Invisible Lightswitch®, its primed ready to paint plates are flush to the wall and can be painted in the same colour as a room and therefore, be disguised on a wall or skirting board, making them as unobtrusive as possible.
For the Painted switch, there is a choice of dolly (toggle) or rocker switches and dimmers, which are available with either conventional knobs or buttons. These are supplied in Brass, Brushed Brass, Nickel Silver, Stainless Steel and Antique Bronze.
Painted sockets are available with black or white inserts and come with radius or square edge corners.
Painted switches start from £45.80 + VAT Painted sockets start from £31.80 + VAT
All plates are handcrafted in the UK and assembled at the Forbes & Lomax workshop in South West London.
About Forbes & Lomax
Forbes & Lomax has been producing elegant, innovative light switches and sockets for over thirty-five years. Renowned for launching The Invisible Lightswitch®, it has always approached lighting control from an aesthetic point of view. The Forbes & Lomax collection comprises nine carefully chosen finishes, which are suitable for traditional and contemporary interiors, making it the brand of choice for many top interior designers, architects and decorators. The range includes push buttons and dolly switches for integrating with intelligent lighting control and home automation systems. It also offers a bespoke engraving service. Visit the showroom at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour.
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Jason Lu, Founder & CEO at CECOCECO has given his insights into the industry. Founded by industry luminaries with deep roots in the lighting and display sector, CECOCECO is the innovative brainchild of the original creators of ROE Visual. With an unwavering commitment to pioneering new frontiers, CECOCECO is redefining the boundaries of lighting and visual displays, transitioning them from mere functional tools to forms of artistic expression. Envisioning a world where every setting, from concert halls and corporate offices to retail spaces and public parks, serves as a canvas for immersive visual narratives, CECOCECO is at the vanguard of transformative visual experiences.
CECOCECO started from a desire to innovate beyond what I had already achieved with ROE Visual, which I founded back in 2006. My initial fascination was with how lighting could transform spaces – not just physically but emotionally, making both commercial and artistic environments more dynamic and engaging. ROE Visual grew to be known for its quality and creativity, yet I saw potential for even more: to merge LED technology seamlessly with day-to-day aesthetics.
In 2021, this vision led me to start CECOCECO, driven by a belief that our surroundings should enhance how we feel and interact, not just exist as backdrops. At CECOCECO, we strive to create environments that do more than occupy space – they enrich every moment spent within them.
At CECOCECO, we design our products to be as visually appealing when they’re off as they are when they’re on. Our ArtMorph series, for instance, is crafted not just to illuminate but to be part of the space’s design aesthetic, blending seamlessly into the background or standing out as a visual feature depending on the designer’s intent. This dual functionality ensures that spaces are enhanced aesthetically at all times, not just when the display is active.
I’m particularly proud of how our technology allows interior designers to create adaptive environments that evolve throughout the day. From a serene ambiance for morning coffee to a lively backdrop for evening gatherings, the transformation is seamless. The beauty of our displays lies in their dual function: they enrich the environment both visually and functionally, ensuring that even when the lights go down, the space remains elegant and engaging. This approach is crucial for venues that change their setting according to the time of day or type of event, providing continuous visual appeal without the need for adjustments.
It started with a simple idea: what if spaces could react to us, change with us, and inspire us? With our LED technology, we’re turning that idea into a reality. Our displays can change the feel of a room with the flick of a switch, responding to the needs of those using the space. This isn’t just about adding visual appeal; it’s about creating environments that adapt and evolve. This dynamic element of design is what I believe truly sets us apart – it makes spaces not just places to be, but experiences to engage with. This ability to blend technology with aesthetics is reshaping how we think about and interact with our environments every day.
Working with interior designers is something I enjoy greatly. It’s a partnership where both sides come to the table with unique ideas and a shared goal to transform a space. Our process starts with a conversation, where we really dive into what the designer envisions and what the space demands. This understanding forms the foundation of how we approach each project, ensuring that our solutions genuinely complement and enhance the design they have in mind.
We don’t just provide products; we offer tailored solutions. This means considering the specific size, shape, and aesthetic a designer is aiming for and making sure our offerings can be customised to fit seamlessly. It’s not just about the technical aspects – although we provide plenty of support there too, from installation help to troubleshooting. It’s about making sure that the designers feel supported throughout the process, ensuring that the final result is as functional as it is striking.
This past year has been a big one for CECOCECO, especially with the launch of ArtMorph. This project really was a labour of love, years in the making, that aimed to marry top-notch display technology with beautiful design to literally light up a room. Seeing ArtMorph go from concept to reality and getting such positive feedback from both the design community and our customers is incredibly rewarding. It’s confirmed for us that there’s a real appetite for innovative, adaptable lighting solutions that don’t just fill a space but enhance it.
We’ve seen a real shift towards nature-inspired designs. More clients are looking to bring the outdoors in, creating spaces that feel connected to nature. It’s not just about aesthetics anymore – there’s a deeper focus on creating environments that promote well-being through natural elements. This trend is really about blurring the lines between the indoors and outdoors, making nature a core component of the design, not just an afterthought.
There’s also been a big push for sustainability and innovation. Clients want materials that are eco-friendly but also cutting-edge in terms of technology and design. It’s about balancing responsibility with creativity – finding those innovative solutions that deliver both.
And finally, customisation and interactivity have become huge. People want surfaces that do more than just look good. They want products that engage, surprise, and even interact with their environment. It’s why designs like our ArtMorph, with its lighting effects and dynamic visuals, have become so popular – it’s not just a product, it’s an experience.
In the coming year, the interior design industry will focus on sustainability and wellness, with a growing interest in eco-friendly materials and nature-inspired designs that promote well-being.
Technology and customisation will also be key trends, with interactive designs like ArtMorph becoming more popular. Additionally, flexibility in space usage will be crucial as clients seek adaptable environments for hybrid and commercial needs.
I’m especially excited about the potential of ArtMorph. I truly believe there’s a vast untapped potential in this product, and we’re just scratching the surface. What fuels my enthusiasm is the opportunity to collaborate with a growing network of designers and artists. These interactions will allow us to push the boundaries of what ArtMorph can do, exploring innovative applications and creating unique, dynamic experiences for every space. The prospect of expanding ArtMorph’s capabilities and discovering new ways to integrate it into various environments is incredibly inspiring. It’s this continuous drive to innovate and enhance that keeps me deeply passionate about our work.
Being recognised as an SBID Accredited Industry Partner isn’t just about having a badge; it’s about being part of a community that drives design excellence and innovation globally. For me and my team, it’s really motivating. It connects us with other professionals who are just as passionate about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in design. It’s about sharing ideas, learning from others, and constantly finding new ways to innovate.
About CECOCECO
CECOCECO was created by a visionary team of pioneers from the heart of the lighting and display industry. Drawing upon years of experience from previous venture as founders of ROE Visual, alongside a deep-rooted passion for innovation, they are set to create products that will change how people perceive and interact with lights and visuals. Lighting and displays could transcend mere functionality and evolve into artistic expression. At CECOCECO, they envisioned a future where every space, whether it be a concert hall, a corporate office, or a retail store, could become a canvas for immersive and aweinspiring visual storytelling.
Architects, interior designers, lighting designers, engineers, and specifiers head to LiGHT in their thousands to see the very latest product innovations and launches from 100s of exhibiting architectural and decorative lighting brands.
Run by [d]arc media – the leading media company in lighting design – the show also features the highly regarded [d]arc thoughts talks programme. Moderated by editors from the leading lighting design magazines arc and darc, as well as guest moderators, the talks delve deeper into the latest topics and trends affecting lighting and design – whether that’s looking at circular economy and sustainability, designing for wellness, or diversity in design.
SBID Members earn 2 x CPD points for attending!
The first of its kind, Franklite introduced the Anniversary Edition earlier this year. Launching many new collections, this special edition also takes a retrospective look at existing popular product ranges.
Featuring exquisite statement pieces such as the Victoria, Cleopatra, Celestial and Icicle ranges. Delicate and unique designs adorned with crystals and glass which subtly refract the light. These opulent fittings are available in various sizes. Often paired with their matching wall lights, these ranges are perfectly designed for luxury interior settings.
The Windsor range complements most interiors with its cream textured shades and a choice of two finishes. The three and five light pendants are supplied with a chain suspension which can be shortened to accommodate low ceilings. This range also includes a matching wall light.
The Tudor is a contemporary range of chandeliers. The impressive ring design in matt black finish is available in three sizes and includes a matching wall light.
Suitable for interior and exterior use is the Frost aged brass finish wall lights. The LED light source illuminates the clear artisanal cast glass projecting a beautiful pattern on the wall.
IP44 rated ranges Globe and Stellar allow clients to mix and match from single or double wall lights and pendants in a choice of finishes with a selection of various glass options creating fittings to suit any interior including bathrooms.
For more information about the Anniversary Edition and the new product ranges contact the Customer Care team on 01908691818 or visit www.franklite.co.uk
About Franklite Limited
Founded in 1973, award winning Franklite is one of the leading innovators in high-quality decorative lighting. Working with clients, architects, lighting consultants, interior designers, M & E consultants and distributors for the residential, hospitality and commercial markets throughout the UK, Europe, Middle and Far East. Franklite has a story to tell. They are far more than just a lighting manufacturer; they are creators, visionaries and craftspeople who continue to pride themselves on their manufacturing methods and excellent service. This includes offering products that balance optimal performance with beautiful aesthetics and have successfully supplied exceptional luminaires to palaces, embassies, hotels, private residences and multi-residential projects. Franklite remains at the forefront of the lighting industry with incredible in-house technology which includes the Rigo Near-Field Goniophotometer and highly-skilled design and technical teams who continue to develop signature products. Our LED plates and most recently award winning tuneable light engines are manufactured in-house and compatible with many of our luminaires.
Franklite celebrated a very prestigious milestone in 2023, its 50th year in the design, manufacture and distribution of high-quality decorative lighting. Over the years Franklite has manufactured exquisite products for the retail, commercial and hospitality markets including bespoke project designs.
The passion for lighting has been within the Lissauer family for three generations. Taking his father’s passed down knowledge and many years of experience owning a number of lighting shops in various provinces of South Africa Frank Lissauer decided to relocate to the United Kingdom and establish Franklite in 1973.
Growing and developing the business over the years took dedication and countless hours of hard work by Frank Lissauer but these responsibilities were eventually shared when his son, Mark Lissauer joined the business in 1999.
The family owned business has achieved significant milestones over the 50 years which include moving to a much larger purpose built factory in 1990 after quickly outgrowing the previous premises, an in-house laboratory which holds state-of-the-art lighting technology which very few other lighting manufacturers within the UK possess, an expansive warehouse and assembly area where products and parts undergo stringent quality control and finally an exquisite showroom.
Franklite’s first ever catalogue included the Delft range as one of its first products. The traditional ‘flemish’ style design has made these fittings classic and timeless. 50 years later this popular range is still available in the current Catalogue 26. Many iterations have followed over the years, like the Halle and Mondrian which continue to follow the ‘flemish’ design style.
2021 was the year Franklite received recognition for winning two awards within the hospitality industry – Best in Tech and Best Retail Decorative Lighting Manufacturer.
Franklite has a story to tell. They are far more than just a lighting manufacturer; they are creators, visionaries and craftspeople who continue to pride themselves on their manufacturing and service excellence. At the heart of Franklite is a highly-skilled team who understand the importance of good product design that will stand the test of time, both technically and aesthetically.
Over the next 50 years the hope is that Franklite continues to grow and remain a renowned family business whilst maintaining the core principle which Franklite was founded – to offer products that balance optimal performance with beautiful aesthetics.
Forbes & Lomax is excited to announce its range of Invisible Lightswitch® and dimmer plates are now made from 100% recycled Perspex.
The Greencast® sheets of Perspex are created from the waste and scrap material of manufacturers and fabricators, which would ordinarily end up in landfill.
By sourcing this sustainable material, Forbes & Lomax is helping ensure it is doing its part to reduce its impact on the environment.
With offices in London, New York and LA, Forbes & Lomax switches, dimmers and sockets are sold worldwide.
All plates are handcrafted and assembled at the Forbes & Lomax workshop in Battersea.
Find out more about sustainability at Forbes & Lomax here.
This spring, Forbes & Lomax launches its new Multiway Dimmer Switch. The dimmer switch allows you to dim a light from up to three locations, without the need for additional packs. Multiway Dimmer Switches can be retrofitted with ease.
Use in a bedroom to dim your lights from the doorway or from bedside the bed, illuminate a landing from the bottom of a staircase or light up a large room with several entrances.
These are just some examples of the benefits of installing a Multiway Dimmer Switch.
Forbes & Lomax specialises in designer light switches and sockets for both traditional and contemporary settings. All plates are handcrafted in the UK and assembled at the Forbes & Lomax workshop in South West London.
Prices starting from £54.63 + VAT
In the realm of home design, lighting is often an overlooked aspect, even in the most modern builds. Frequently, we encounter new developments with subpar lighting layouts, featuring an excessive number of uniformly dispersed downlights in open-plan spaces and just a few ceiling lights in bedrooms, if you’re lucky. But fret not, even if you’re faced with less-than-ideal lighting arrangements, there are solutions that can transform your living space into a designer haven. Whether you’re renovating your home or residing in a new build, LED lighting can be the key to an aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior environment. In this article, we’ll explore how LED lighting can help busy professionals, enhance the ambiance and functionality of their homes.
Statistics show: A well-illuminated room can make it appear more spacious and inviting. According to a survey by the American Lighting Association, 76% of homeowners believe that lighting can significantly impact the mood and ambiance of a room.
Example: Hiring an interior designer to create a lighting plan tailored to your space can yield exceptional results. This approach ensures the perfect illumination and a variety of lighting options that complement your new layout, transforming your space into a haven of style and functionality.
Statistics show: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED lighting can be up to 80% more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent lighting.
Example: Concealing LED tape in channels routed within your joinery can instantly elevate the room’s design. Selecting the right LED colour temperature and positioning them to highlight specific elements is crucial. The colour and location of LEDs within the channels depend on what you intend to showcase. For example, horizontal placement is ideal for adjustable shelving, with LEDs positioned about 20 mm from the front.
Statistics show: LED lighting inside kitchen cabinets can improve energy efficiency. A report by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency states that LED lighting consumes significantly less energy, making it a greener choice.
Example: Enhancing your kitchen’s lighting layout with LED options is not only energy-efficient but also visually appealing. Consider LED lighting inside your cabinets for a seamless and chic look. To add a touch of luxury to your kitchen, incorporate LEDs into skirting boards surrounding kitchen islands, provided you have one.
Statistics show: Adequate lighting can accentuate the beauty of your artwork. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that proper lighting significantly enhances the perceived aesthetic value of art pieces.
Example: Picture lights, whether integrated into joinery or mounted above artworks, can instantly elevate the room’s atmosphere. When planning your picture lighting, measure your artwork meticulously, considering the length of the picture light in relation to the art frame. A good rule of thumb is to choose a picture light that’s about half the width of the picture for portrait paintings and between a third and a half for landscape pieces. Explore high-quality picture lights from renowned brands like Chelsom and Visual Comfort.
Statistics show: Well-lit wardrobes make selecting outfits easier and more enjoyable. According to a survey by Houzz, 68% of homeowners prefer a walk-in closet with integrated lighting.
Example: Adding concealed LED lights inside your wardrobe, positioned vertically, not only illuminates your clothing and accessories but also exudes a classy and design-led aesthetic. For those looking to retrofit lighting, battery-operated LED options can be placed on the sides of the wardrobe carcass for practicality.
Example: Phos, one of our favourite LED suppliers, offers a wide array of tapes, channels, and drivers, making them the perfect choice for your renovation project. With their selection of LED solutions, you can transform your home into a stylish and well-lit space, all while reducing energy consumption.
Incorporating LED lighting into your home design is not only an aesthetically pleasing choice but also a smart and energy-efficient one. So, whether you’re renovating or living in a new build, these LED lighting solutions can enhance your space’s style, ambiance, and functionality. Don’t underestimate the transformative power of well-planned lighting. It’s the key to creating a designer look that caters to the needs and tastes of busy professionals like you.
About Katie Malik Design Studio
Established in 2014, we are a multi award-winning Cambridge based interior design studio. We work globally, specialising in luxurious private residential interiors. We create exceptional designs, taking a holistic approach to the way spaces will be used and enjoyed. Through detailed visual package, attention to the smallest details paired with the professionalism & toughness to handle large projects from start to finish, we turn an otherwise overwhelming process into an exciting and deeply satisfying experience.
The Ambassador Wall Light is an exclusive design collaboration between the artisans at Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard and Focus SB’s in-house technical engineers and finishing experts, offering a striking addition to the British premium electrical manufacturer’s extensive suite of hospitality products.
Complemented by three metal finish options comprising Jordan bronze, satin and antique brass this industry-first collaboration from Focus SB in partnership with Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard offers luxury interior designers unique handcrafted bedside lighting pieces in attractive clear, smoked and reeded glass shade options.
The glass shade details of each Ambassador Wall Light are cut by hand using traditional techniques (a ruler and glass knife) and bonded by hand at Gwyn’s Chesterfield studio. Edges are arrised (smoothed) by hand. The long thin rectangular glass shades are complemented by an attractive Tubular Gold Flex LED filament dimmable lamp.
Established by founder and Director Jeff Fuller in 2013 The Light Yard was rebranded in 2020 to underscore the company’s artisanal offering with Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard producing light fittings for numerous commercial and residential projects in the UK, Europe and North America. Introduced to Raymond Blanc OBE at the 2019 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard was invited to provide the lighting design including bespoke interior and exterior pieces for his botanical-themed Chelsea pop up restaurant Jardin Blanc in 2021.
Offering superior solutions for exceptional project design and finish continuity detail, the Ambassador Wall Light sees Focus SB leading its industry in the design and manufacture of striking luxury hospitality products.
Interior designers who visited Decorex stand A74 would have been able to view the beautifully handcrafted Ambassador Wall Light from this exquisite new lighting collection featuring a smoked shade, lamp with spiral LED filament by Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard, paired with a quality metal plate finished in-house in Jordan bronze by Focus SB; and the company’s debut of its exceptional design-first flat screwless range with distinctive square corners in solid brass, RENAISSANCE.
View information and an Ambassador Wall Light inspiration image gallery in the Design Collaborations section at Focus SB’s website.
About Focus SB Ltd
Established for over 40 years in East Sussex, Focus SB’s award winning in-house manufacturing and metal finishing expertise presents designers with a comprehensive collection of switches, sockets and components complemented by bespoke project services. Quality faceplate styles made from the finest solid brass and durable stainless steel offer striking solutions for high-end hospitality, prime residential, heritage and commercial interiors. Working closely with design consultants, control system companies and fire and security specialists, Focus SB’s unrivalled ability to match metal finishes across its collection, coupled with custom finish options, sees the company’s products specified for world class projects internationally.
LiGHT – the only trade show in the UK dedicated to lighting specification – will build on the success of its first year in 2022 by enhancing its offering to attract the wider design community.
A common misconception is that trade shows dedicated to lighting specification are just for lighting designers. This, put simply, just isn’t the case…
Lighting is one of the first things that should be considered when working on a project – whether you’re a client, developer, architect, interior designer, or lighting designer. The importance of working with the right tools and having the right knowledge to produce the best light – and in turn the best environment for the end user – is undeniable. So many times, lighting is an afterthought on a project, when it should be at the forefront of everybody’s minds.
Well, ask yourself these questions…
1. Do you work on commercial and / or high-end residential projects? 2. Do the projects you work on feature lighting in some capacity? 3. Would you like to understand more about the effects of good and bad lighting on design schemes and the end user? 4. Would you like to broaden your knowledge on the built environment? 5. Would you like to make new connections within the industry?
If you answered YES to even just one of these questions, then LiGHT 23 is the event for you and with FREE visitor registration, what’s to lose?
LiGHT 23 will feature 100s of high-end lighting brands all under one roof – perfect for residential and commercial projects large and small. From sourcing IP-rated products that can bring a stunning bathroom or garden design scheme to life; to statement decorative pieces for a restaurant or bar project; or perhaps you’re working on a big hotel project and need a company that can fulfil a large order… Maybe you need something more bespoke? With lighting brands from all over the world on show, we guarantee, there will be a product at LiGHT 23 that fits the brief.
Not only that, LiGHT 23 will once again host the highly regarded talks programme [d]arc thoughts, featuring experts from across the world of design, editors from speciality design magazines including arc, darc, ICON, and OnOffice, while covering topics that affect all areas of the industry, such as sustainability & circular design; designing for a global client; designing for healthy office spaces; and designing for small & large spaces, to name just a few… Watch this space for a full talks programme announcement coming very soon!
The show’s association partners will also support the talks programme with speakers from the likes of Society of British & International Interior Design (SBID); NLA; Institution of Lighting Professionals (ILP); Society of Light and Lighting (SLL); and the International Assocation of Lighting Design (IALD).
Also new for this year is darc space, a dedicated area for decorative lighting brands to shine. darc space will provide lighting and interior designers and specifiers looking for their next stunning light feature a one-stop-shop of decorative lighting brands to choose from.
About LiGHT 23
The LiGHT exhibition is held over two days at the Business Design Centre. The show highlights include the [d]arc thoughts talks programme, with a stream of guests keen to learn more about the hot topics from interior design, architecture and lighting. The event features a bespoke decorative lighting hub showcasing a range of brands, as well as an exclusive designers lounge. LiGHT 23, Business Design Centre, 21 – 22 November 2023
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