Pastel perfection: how soft hues are transforming home lighting

Pastels are basically the introverts of the colour world. Soft, gentle, and unassuming, they don’t scream for attention. They politely suggest it. "Oh, you noticed my pale pink table lamp? Why, thank you." Unlike their louder, brasher neon cousins, pastels add a touch of whimsy without making your living room look like an 80s throwback.

They’re also scientifically proven to make you happier.* The soft hues evoke feelings of calm, serenity, and maybe “I’ll actually keep that houseplant alive this time." Growth!

*By "scientifically proven", we mean we feel calmer when we’re surrounded by a nice lilac, powder pink or mint green, and that’s all the proof we need. We won’t hear another word about it.

Now, let’s talk lighting. You know the drill: the right lighting can make or break a space. Too harsh, and your living room resembles an operating room. Too dim, and you’ll be squinting like a mole emerging into daylight. Enter pastel lighting, the Goldilocks of home illumination. The sweet spot between practical and ambient.

Imagine a soft lavender glow in your bedroom, making you feel like you’re sleeping in a field of dreams. Or a mint green lamp in the kitchen, giving off spa vibes while you’re chopping onions. It’s all about creating an atmosphere, darling.

Pastel lighting transforms any space into a cosy retreat, making everything (and everyone) look better. Harsh lighting screams while pastels whisper elegance. It’s the perfect balance of warmth and sophistication, proving that subtlety can be seriously powerful.

The unsung heroes of home lighting, table lamps are perfect for introducing a hint of pastel into your space. Whether it’s a blush pink ceramic base or a sage green scalloped shade, these versatile pieces can be both functional and decorative.

Place one on your bedside table for a soft, romantic glow, or let a pair flank your sofa to create a cosy yet oh-so-stylish vibe. Pastel table lamps are like the best kind of friends, calm, supportive, and always making you look good.

They sit there quietly, casting a soft, flattering glow, never demanding attention but always improving the mood. Basically, they’re the lighting equivalent of a warm hug… if hugs were ridiculously stylish.

Floor lamps are like the taller, slightly bolder cousins of table lamps. A pastel floor lamp can serve as a statement piece in your room while still keeping things soft and inviting.

Imagine a cute, mint green floor lamp lighting up your reading nook, or a powder blue number standing proud in the corner of your lounge. They’re functional, yes, but also a conversation starter. The lighting equivalent of a witty dinner guest.

Floor lamps are also ideal for layering light in larger spaces. Pair a pastel floor lamp with warm ceiling lights to create depth and balance in the room.

Think of it as the lighting version of accessorising. You’ve got your main outfit (the ceiling lights), and the floor lamp is the killer handbag that pulls it all together.

Wall lights are the dark horses of home lighting. Often overlooked, these fixtures are a brilliant way to bring a subtle pastel touch to your interiors. Opt for pastel-coloured sconces or shades that can add a dash of personality to your walls without overwhelming the space.

Picture this: pale purple wall lights flanking your bed, perfect for late-night reading or scrolling through your phone without disturbing your other half. Or perhaps a row of soft pink sconces in a hallway, turning a previously dull passageway into a charming, well-lit corridor.

Wall lights can be both functional and a design feature in their own right, especially when they’re dressed in pastel tones. Bringing a soft, cosy glow that makes any space feel warm and inviting, their gentle colours brighten a room without being too harsh.

Perfect for bedrooms, hallways, or living spaces, they add just the right touch of charm and personality.

The crown jewel of any room, your ceiling light is often the first thing people notice when they walk in. Why not make it pastel? Think powder pink pendant lights over a dining table, or a cluster of pastel glass shades to create a playful yet sophisticated effect.

Pastel light shades are like the macarons of home décor, sweet, stylish, and impossible to resist. They make your room look effortlessly chic, like it belongs in a Pinterest dream board. Plus, they’re perfect for those who want ambiance without the drama, because who needs a spotlight when you can have a soft glow?

A game-changer for home décor, they add a soft, dreamy glow from above. They brighten a room without being too harsh, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Mix and match – Pastels play well with others, so don’t be afraid to mix different shades. A blush pink table lamp paired with a mint green floor lamp can create a fresh, modern look. Keep the rest of your colour scheme neutral if you want to avoid things getting too busy. Or, if you’re a fan of Maximalist décor or Dopamine décor, then fill your pastel boots!
Play with textures – Combine pastel lighting with textured materials like rattan, velvet, or linen for added depth. For instance, a dusty blue lamp with a woven shade can bring a touch of boho charm to your space.
Consider placement – Lighting isn’t just about what you use but where you put it. Use pastel table lamps to create cosy corners, place wall lights at eye level for optimal ambience, and hang ceiling lights to draw the eye upward and make a room feel more spacious.
Layer your lighting – Combine pastel lighting with other light sources to create a well-rounded scheme. Think a baby blue floor lamp for reading, buttery yellow table lamps for ambience, and a natural ceiling light to tie it all together. Lighting, after all, is all about balance.