When Your Light Fixtures Have Too Much Personality

Ever installed a pendant light that looks like it belongs in the future, only to dim the mood by making the room feel like a sci-fi set? I had a client who thought they could induce some ‘retro vibes’ with a super modern fixture, but all it did was make them feel like they were dining on Mars. Just a reminder that sometimes, less is more, even when you’re trying to amp up the ambience! What’s your funniest lighting design flop?

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Installing a light fixture is kind of like choosing a partner: it should enhance your vibe, not overshadow it — if the sci-fi look isn’t working, maybe try something vintage for a warm touch instead. What retro options do you think could fit?

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