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Electrical and Lighting Trends for 2023: The Latest Looks and Technology for Condo and Co-Op Residents

Most designers agree that lighting is among the most vital design elements in common areas and personal spaces. If you want your property to feel warm and inviting, lighting and electricity play a significant role. Besides light’s ability to change the vibe of an area, the convenience of outlets contributes to a space’s functionality.

As a property owner, staying on top of the electrical and lighting trends of 2023 is vital to maintaining a relevant and appealing property.

Electrical and Lighting Trends for 2023

Regulatory Updates Encourage Change

Sometimes changes to lighting and electrical systems go beyond personal preference. Sweeping regulatory changes, such as Local Law 97, require property owners to take drastic actions to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Moreover, the strain on the New York City electrical grid is too great. If the city, in cooperation with property owners, does not take action, it will experience widespread blackouts and insufficient production. Shifting to alternative energy sources and embracing LED technology can reduce demands on city infrastructure, ensuring a bright future.

While regulations enforce change, property owners should also embrace the trend towards green power and lower emissions. Not only does compliance help the city and environment, but it puts more money into the pockets of property owners, especially when newer technology lasts longer than traditional lighting options.

That said, the initial expense of eco-friendly designs is more than that of conventional options. Still, because of regulatory changes and federal incentives, many property owners can receive tax breaks or vouchers for sustainable upgrades. Also, if property owners install solar panels, they can sell power back to their provider, reducing their utility costs.

Consumer Interests Spark Innovation and Upgrades

While regulatory changes might motivate property owners to embrace the lighting trends of 2023, many consumers voluntarily adopt them for design, efficiency, and comfort. The rise in smart devices encourages consumer interest in flexibility, control, and cost savings.

Renters can control nearly everything from the palm of their hand or with their voice. Smart home product designers sell lamps, thermostats, washing machines, and many other things that consumers can control with an app. If the product is compatible with Google or Amazon speakers, consumers only need to speak a command.

Beyond the novelty of smart devices, including lighting, there is a practical element. By customizing their lighting and electrical usage experiences, consumers can save themselves money and reduce their impact on the environment.

For property owners looking to attract environmentally and tech-savvy tenants, consider installing smart tech in units. Examples of smart electronics and lighting include outlets with USB ports, smart thermostats, motion sensor lights, and dimmable lighting.

Design and Lighting Trends for 2023

Color and Pattern

Lighting is not only about efficiency but also about style. Pendant lights continue to be on trend this year, but many people find unique ways to make them stand out or blend in. A growing trend is matching pendant lights with wall colors, for example, a grey kitchen backsplash complemented by a grey pendant light over the island. Essentially, carrying the color to the light helps it blend with the space, allowing for a more subdued or neutral silhouette.

Some tenants are embracing both color and pattern with their fixtures, creating a standout moment for lighting. Whether they choose a patterned pendant or a unique table lamp, boldness is a choice this year.

Organic and Industrial

Opposites are also on trend, with organic and industrial styles both making the list of lighting trends in 2023. Organic or free-form shapes can use industrial materials like sheet metal, while blown glass and bespoke, or custom, designs are increasingly popular.

When it comes to industrial materials, burnt steel and copper are favorites at the moment. Exposing the steel to excessive heat imparts colors, similar to the rainbow effect of an oil spill. Copper lighting imbues LED elements with more sculptural aspects of copper plates or discs.

Space-Saving vs. Oversized

Still on trend in 2023 is space-saving lighting, such as recessed options; however, more interesting is the rise of the oversized chandelier. Many renters and property owners now appreciate a statement light piece over a dining room table or kitchen island. Property owners are using oversized elements in communal areas such as lobbies or tenant lounges.

While large-scale displays are welcome in some areas, property owners should remember that apartment or rental property design is about mass appeal. Recessed lighting is still the most appealing option and remains on the list for lighting trends of 2023 for that very reason.

Layered Designs

One rising lighting trend is layering. Layered light design uses various light sources to create a customizable experience for the tenant. For example, a room might have recessed lights, backlit art, a chandelier, and floor or table lamps. While the presence of multiple lamps and light sources might seem like overkill, it allows a tenant to adjust the room’s light to their preference.

It is essential to mix the styles of lights to limit the risk of overdoing them. For example, use sculptural table lamps and backlighting around art or televisions. Combining styles and elements can complement the overall design of the space.

Smart Lighting

Among the most promising lighting trends of 2023 is smart lighting. The technology uses smart LED bulbs or strips that contain software that allows a tenant to connect with a smart home assistant and control the brightness and hue of the lighting.

Smart lighting can also eliminate the need for some wall switches because the tenant’s phone or home assistant becomes the controller. Also, smart lighting helps tenants and property owners reduce electrical demand on the city’s grid system.

Help With Electrical and Lighting Trends in 2023

Contact Bolt Electric for Advice

Electrical and lighting trends of 2023 can help property owners and tenants save money. If you want to discuss lighting and electrical trends, contact Bolt Electric at 212-734-5000 and schedule a property assessment. Get help making choices that will save money and ensure compliance with new regulations.