When we think of spring bulbs, it’s usually of the plant variety. But lately, while looking for ideas to freshen up our home (because spring redecorating is way more fun than spring cleaning), we’ve taken a shine to cut-crystal light bulbs. Adding an immediate note of warmth and refinement to any room, these delicate bulbs are a way to class things up without investing in a fussy lighting fixture.
Still consider crystal fussy, in whatever form? Replace memories of Grandma’s house and her prized Waterford collection with visions of a more modern room: neutral walls, a minimal design scheme and the light from crystal bulbs splashing dazzling patterns across the walls.
Via a recent Remodelista article on the cut-crystal revival, we stumbled upon bulbs by UK designer Lee Broom. Collaborating with trusted British crystal producer Cumbria Crystal, he had each bulb cut with a classic pattern, like those found on traditional whiskey glasses and decanters. The ornamental crystal is balanced by clean, sturdy elements: a brushed brass pendant fitting, gold fabric cable and brass ceiling rose. Broom also makes a table lamp featuring a cut-crystal bulb on a solid gold plated base, visit leebroom.com.
Don’t have a few hundred dollars to burn? Go for Victorian-style cut-glass bulbs, available from many home stores, which contrast nicely with modern fixtures and cost much less.