Something Old, Something New: 5 Signs Your Light Fixtures are Outdated

Especially for those with an older home, it is not uncommon to still have the home’s original light fixtures installed. A common reason for this is the philosophy, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it (or replace it).” Sure, your fixtures may work just fine, but do still look relevant? Are they what you still want? Maybe it’s time for a change.

Since you’re here, you’re probably a bit indecisive regarding whether the light fixtures in your space are needing an upgrade or not. Our lighting experts at Cocoweb have some tips to help you out.

1. Your light fixtures don’t fit in with your design.

Looking at your light fixtures for a moment, do they seem like they are easily embedded into the design? Are they within the same era of the rest of your space? Are they even in sync with the intent of the room anymore? Do they provide the same feel that they used to have?

If you answered no to any of the above questions, it may be time to swap out your light fixtures for something that is more suitable for your space. The whole point of an interior or exterior design is to have elements that fit together. They don’t have to match, but they do at least have to complement one another.

It is incredibly difficult to accommodate an older light fixture into a modern design when the fixture has little, if any, similarities with the rest of the space. Sometimes it is best to leave some aspects in the past and move forward, so you can provide complementary features in your space.

2. You’ve had the same lights for decades.

A dead giveaway of whether or not new light fixtures are in order is if you have had the same lights for decades. Unless your light fixtures have a very timeless feel to them, it is likely your fixtures aren’t relevant to this time and no longer “make sense.” (There’s a reason why people laugh when they look at photos of them from many years ago!)

Too many eras in one space can be overwhelming and confusing at the same time. Pick an era, just one era. The items and light fixtures in your room do not have to be created in the exact same year. Rather, the point we’re trying to get across is that it is important to have them within the same decade, not more than a decade or two apart.

That said, take that old chandelier and switch it for a modern chandelier or even a pendant light. Replacing things doesn’t have to be a negative experience. Maybe it’s the one change your space needs to be more pleasing to the eye; it’s nothing to be afraid of.

If you’re worried about changing your fixtures, remind yourself how great your space will look once it has fixtures that fit with the current decade and will better blend in with your design without looking like a catastrophe. At Cocoweb.com, we offer hassle free returns. If you don’t like your fixture once it arrives, get your money back guaranteed.

3. Your light fixtures have yet to evolve with your space.

Surely over the years, you’ve probably switched up the décor or furnishings in your space. Maybe you even gave your walls a fresh coat of paint or switched up the color scheme in your space. Just like when we revamp our space for the holidays and seasons, revamping your space to make it more modern is also necessary every now and then.

But the question is, have you ever changed your light fixtures since living in your home? Some even reinstall the same light fixtures when switching homes. While that is a thrifty option, sometimes it’s time to say goodbye to a light fixture that no longer works – not in terms of function but in terms of design.

It’s true that more expensive things like televisions, tables, couches, sinks and faucets, toilets, fans, and even light fixtures are less often replaced, in part due to their price and in part because these items have wonderful longevity and can look great for many, many years.

But when it comes to the main rooms in your home such as the kitchen, dining room, living room, and/or family room, having outdated light fixtures and other aspects in your space may make your guests feel like they have come out of a time machine – which isn’t necessarily a good thing.

4. Your fixtures don’t have LED bulbs.

While there truly isn’t a “perfect” light bulb out there, as they all have a wide range of pros and cons, LED light bulbs are a newer form of technology often found in newer light fixtures. This isn’t to say that you need LED and LED only, but if your fixtures don’t have them, this may be a sign that they are not up-to-date.

At Cocoweb.com, our fixtures all are equipped with LED bulbs. LED is currently deemed the best type of bulb in many individuals’ opinions, as they are more efficient and use less energy, provide beautiful bright lighting, and have a significantly longer life before needing to be replaced. LED bulbs are more expensive, but in the long-run, you pay less.

For the latter reasons, many other companies are also offering LED lamps, ceiling lights, and wall fixtures. Consider making the switch. If you’re on the fence, ask a lighting expert for advice. Most individuals who switch to LED have no regrets.

5. The color of your fixture is out of style.

While many light fixtures have a metallic finish, if your light fixture is colored (whether that be the stem/neck or shade) in a hue that has been long out of style, you may be due for something new! The wrong colors can make it difficult to implement anything more modern into your space.

Old-fashioned colors are often quite dull and dark – but not necessarily bold, happy, and rejuvenating like colors often are now. Mauve, burgundy, purplish browns, pinkish tans, and emerald are just some of many antique colors you may want to avoid. A change in the paint of your fixtures alone can bring necessary change to a space.

However, color alone is not a good indicator of whether your light fixtures are old. Even more important is the overall style of the fixture and how it fits into your interior or exterior design. You may have a design that is more traditional but still is suitable for this age, but if your fixtures don’t suit your space, it may be time to do something.

Conclusion
Deciding if your light fixtures are old and in need of a refreshment or replacement can be easy. Some key clues for the latter include: a fixture that can no longer merge with your current design, fixtures that have been in your space for decades, lack of evolution of your light fixtures as your space has evolved, lack of LED technology in your fixtures, and an out-of-style paint color on your fixtures.

When you’re ready to upgrade your light fixtures to something more modern or timeless-contemporary, check out Cocoweb.com for barn lights, piano lamps, picture lights, and other great fixtures that will freshen up your space like it deserves.