Bronte Rectangular Outdoor Ceiling Flush Light Matt Black c/w Clear Glass E27/ES IP23, Astro 1353001

A few years ago, the main argument, when it came to the return of traditional style lighting, was whether the old-school charm they offered could justify the weak, faint light of their iridescent bulbs. In a review on LumReview, the author states he loves the candle-style light offered by vintage bulbs ‘as much as the next guy’, but the poor lighting they offered made them a relic that should remain in the past. This traditional vs LED lighting argument raged as interior decorators continued to favour the stylish decadence of traditional lighting: the swinging pendants, the classy metal cages - they all remained in demand from consumers. Furious LED advocates were adamant that there was no questioning the advantages of LED lighting. LEDs had a longer-lasting lifespan, better energy efficiency, improved safety, superior colour rendering - the list goes on. Vintage-style lighting versus LEDs - an antiquated argument? However, the question must be asked - why does this have to be framed as an argument between LEDs and traditional light styling? Can we not have the best of both worlds? You may have noticed the resurgence in vintage-style lamps, that actually contain LED lights which accurately resemble the old-school filaments of iridescent bulbs. SparksDirect offers a plethora of these so-called ‘traditional style’ lamps, for instance, the Bronte range of lights. These include models such as the Bronte Rectangular Outdoor Ceiling Flush Light, which boasts a clear glass case to showcase a vintage E27 light, which can in fact take a GLS energy-saving clear light bulb. LED fans can protest as much as they wish, but vintage-style lighting is simply not going anywhere. They undeniably provide a certain tranquil atmosphere and are absolutely perfect for restaurants, pubs and various traditional eating spots for an extra sprinkling of ambience. Huge names in retailing such as GE, Phillips, IKEA and Cree have all leapt in on the ‘vintage style’ trend, giving them their own legitimate categories.Buy the Bronte Ceiling Light Best of Both Worlds: Vintage-style LEDs in Traditional Lights There are in fact valid reasons that the combination of vintage-style lighting and LEDs could be a perfect alliance. A typical LED bulb, which cost only a few pounds, can now last for decades potentially, meaning that people will have to switch out their light bulbs less and less often. Huge manufacturers, such as IKEA, have jumped onto the vintage train as they know it means people who don’t need to purchase a new bulb will do so if they want a new light for their new vintage pendant light. What it really boils down to is aesthetics: the traditional style for a light fitting have a distinctive design, well known to frequenters of any trendy bar or restaurant - or even some older and more traditional houses, such as a manor house, traditional homes, etc. This design gives a crystal clear view of the bulb, and LED bulbs have got increasingly competent at producing fancy-looking fake filaments. For instance, the Felt vintage line twist filaments around each other in artful double helices that really espouse a certain class. There are inevitable problems that arise with vintage-style LED bulbs with fake filaments; for instance they rarely combine with the dimmer switches in smooth fashion. The illusion of a ‘candle like’ light is definitely squashed when the LED bulb starts buzzing sporadically as you try to dim it. Issues like this can be caused by electromagnetic interference from the dimmer switch, which standard LEDs aren't susceptible to, but decorative LEDs are. Whatever the arguments against the resurgence of vintage-style LEDs, they undeniably add a polished touch of class to your home. For instance, on the Sparks Direct website, you can purchase a Richmond Black Lantern to be hung in your garden to create a retro-chic ambience with warm white light, which can all be powered by a simple E27 vintage LED lamp.Buy the Richmond Black Lantern Further reading on this topic: The argument against iridescent vintage lamps (via LuxReview) Reasons why LED lights are considered superior (via Stouchlighting) Why vintage lights are not going anywhere (via CNET) The advantages of LED vintage lights over traditional bulbs (via selectionled)

We were recently looking at Astro Lighting's work with Channel 4 and Architect George Clarke to reimagine a historic building while using Astro Lights for a lighting transformation, and we were inspired by this story. A beautifully restored Georgian farmhouse in Stroud, Gloucestershire, serves as the backdrop for a striking lighting transformation, expertly carried out by Astro Lighting in collaboration with renowned architect George Clarke, best known for his appearances on Channel 4’s Old House, New Home.Originally a traditional period home, the residence underwent a meticulous redesign that preserved its 18th-century character while injecting a fresh, contemporary aesthetic. The redesign journey focused on harmonising classic architectural details with modern living requirements, creating spaces that feel both rooted in history and perfectly suited to today’s lifestyle.One prominent example of this is a hand-dug well, which was uncovered during renovations and is now proudly displayed beneath a circular glass pane in a reception room. Strategically illuminated, the space features Bayville Single Spotlights in striking matt black, positioned around the walls of the well.Re-imagining a Historic Building while using Astro Lights for a Lighting TransformationAstro Lighting’s contribution shines through in how each light fitting was carefully selected to complement the home’s dual identity. Bedrooms in the home showcase a thoughtful layering of lighting schemes. Each room incorporates ambient ceiling fixtures, task lighting beside beds for late-night reading, and accent uplights that highlight architectural features like cornices or niche shelving. The living room uses some Mondrian lights, wall-mounted, to highlight the artwork adorning the emerald green walls. The result is an inviting and tactile environment, offering nuanced lighting control and ensuring both visual comfort and visual interest. In particular, the Ginestra pendant was used for ceiling lighting while the Ascoli Swing lights were used as task lights. Buy Mondrian Picture LightsIn more utilitarian spaces—such as the kitchen, dining area, and bathrooms—functionality joins form in the spotlight. Recessed spotlights and minimal track systems ensure ample illumination for cooking or grooming, yet their finishes mirror the home's palette of soft neutrals and organic tones. Over the dining table, a trio of Ginestra pendants offer a stylish focal point, drawing together the material themes of the cabinetry and countertops while keeping sightlines clean and uncluttered.Buy Ginestra Pendants at SparksOutdoor lighting was not overlooked: discreet yet durable fixtures were chosen to provide ambient evening light along garden paths, enhance stonework textures, and spotlight mature planting. The overall intent was clear—create a coherent lighting scheme that flows effortlessly between interior and exterior spaces, extending both comfort and aesthetic cohesion into the garden after dark. The Astro Lighting Bronte light welcomes you to the property, while the back door is illuminated with the Oslo wall light in matt black.Bronte Wall Light in BlackAstro’s engineering expertise is evident in the performance of the installed fittings. All fixtures are energy-efficient—principally LED-based—offering dimming capability, high colour rendering, and long lifespans. In this regard, the lighting plan supports sustainability goals while reinforcing the home’s serene and restful atmosphere.Central to the success of the design is the dialogue between the architect and the lighting specialist. George Clarke’s vision for a modern-living Georgian home was realised through collaboration: careful site planning and sensitive restoration of period elements. Astro team’s curated lighting solutions converged to honour original features while activating the interior and exterior with crisp, characterful illumination.In summary, the Private Residence in Stroud is an exemplar of how thoughtful lighting can unite past and present.Buy Oslo Outdoor Wall Lamp Astro Lighting’s interventions enhance spatial drama, highlight architectural beauty, and support functional living—all within a timeless Georgian context. The result is a home that feels both elegantly traditional and innately modern, where every room is beautifully and thoughtfully lit to enhance daily life.You can watch the full episode online via All4, and you can view the Astro Lighting article here. All pictures are taken by and for Astro Lighting.