Page 28 - Craftcil Nov-Dec 2023

Feature

Decorative Lighting

Europe emerges as a leading export destination

European imports of lighting products are increasing, including those coming directly from developing
countries. This makes Europe an interesting market for you. Mass production from China dominates the
lower ends of the lighting market, so the mid-end to high-end segments offer you the most opportunities.
Manufacturers should focus on design, craftsmanship and storytelling because consumers in those segments
want to express their personal style with the products they buy. Sustainability is also becoming increasingly
important.
The category, decorative lighting, includes lamps and the items. Innovative designs and special materials are increasingly
lampshades. These can be standing (table and floor lamps), hanging important if you want to add value and differentiate yourself
(pendant), or wall-mounted. They generally consist of a base (or from your competition. Otherwise, you may have to compete on
frame) and shade (or cover), with a holder/socket for the light price alone, which is only possible if your focus is on cheaper raw
bulb. Lampshades are often sold without the lamp holder. This materials and efficiency in production. Manufacturers aiming at
allows producers to avoid having to deal with the requirements exports for Europe should focus on decorative lampshades/
and legislation involved in electrical products. As well as providing pendants without lamp holders if they have no experience in
light to illuminate a room, lamps also create an atmosphere. electrical products.
Lampshades can soften the light to set the desired mood. They
Sustainable Design Example by ‘Lets Pause’ : Think of a leaf, a
diffuse and direct the light from the bulb and can add decorative
strong and flexible leaft that serves to protect the most delicate
value to the lamp.
part of the palm tree, its flower. When
Lighting is made from a wide range of materials. The base (or the palm tree is in flower the leaves loose
frame) can be made of materials such as Wood; Ceramics; Metal; thier function and are collected. Once
Glass; Shades are commonly made from Textiles; Rattan or bamboo; Mother Nature has run its course Let’s
Glass; and Paper. The materials must be able to withstand the heat Pause steps in and transforms them into
coming from the lightbulb. They must not catch fire or melt. magical sculptures that project a sensual
Designwise, lighting has developed from a purely functional and enchanting light diffused through
product to an eye-catching home accessory with design value, the leaf’s irregular texture. No other
especially at the higher ends of the market. More and more element is required other than a light
handmade lighting is being produced, adding unique touches to bulb holder.

28 CRAFTCIL • November-December 2023