It’s 2020 and, as expected, there are some new trends in the mix that will make it to your clients’ requests this year. Thanks to technological advances, lighting design continues to see new and inventive ways to take a space from ‘blah’ to ‘brilliant.’ As the tech industry grows, the equipment required to execute high-level functions becomes more and more accessible and affordable for everyone.
Here are a handful of trends to keep on your radar in 2020 so you can be ahead of the curve.
Angled inspiration
Geometric shapes are all the rage, as we see the traditional crystal chandeliers replaced with more modern and angular-shaped lighting features. This is not just for hanging fixtures, either; tabletop and floor lamps are following suit with inspiration from your old-school geometry textbook. These shapes also happen to be perfect for weaving greenery and blooms throughout, so think outside of the box and see how you can take these angles to new levels.
Industrial details
The geometric trend mentioned above aligns perfectly with the industrial theme that has been taking over the industry by storm as of late. Geometric shapes shine in metallic hues like brass, copper, iron, and steel. Paired with soft lighting and perhaps a few colorful blooms and you get this stunningly unique juxtaposition between warm and cold features. Raw wood and distressed paint fit in well here, as do soft bistro lights and single Edison bulbs.
Remote-controlled everything
When it comes to the amount of effort put into lighting, less is more — as long as you’re maintaining the precision and effectiveness of the design. Remote technology has opened up new doors for lighting design, as you can now control the intensity, color, timing, and dimming of all the lights in a space from the comfort of your mobile device. No more running around the edges of a venue just to flick a switch; you can keep that control in your back pocket.
Neon lighting
This year, expect to see inspiration being drawn from those highlighters on your desk. No, seriously — neon is in as we experience a resurgence of colors and patterns from the ‘90s. Pink, yellow, orange, green, you name it. In terms of lighting, neon is especially dramatic when used to script out words or design a couple’s custom monogram. Don’t shy away from the boldness and brightness — bask in it!
Video mapping
Projection displays have been on the scene for a while with gobo washes being a popular choice in years past. However, in 2020, we’re seeing gobos decline as video mapping takes over as the projection method of choice. Instead of a still pattern displayed on a wall or dance floor, video mapping projects animated graphics that can do anything from add a shimmering effect on a cake to telling a couple’s love story on the dance floor. This technology has been around for a while, but it has only just become more accessible and affordable for everyday event clients.
Armed with this knowledge, you will be better prepared to go into 2020 with fresh and innovative takes on the latest trends that are splashed across magazines and social media.
Kevin Dennis is the editor of WeddingIQ and the owner of Fantasy Sound Event Services, a full-service event company based in Livermore, California. Dennis is the past president for Silicon Valley NACE, and current international president for WIPA.