Raffia Designs

In 2026, lighting has evolved beyond pure function to become the defining "jewellery" of the home — with tactility, sculptural form, and emotional well-being at the forefront of design thinking. Our expert team's 2026 Lighting Buyers Guide covers the key trends, materials, and technical considerations to help you make confident choices for every room.

This year's dominant aesthetic is "Functional Art" — pieces that serve as striking focal points even when switched off. Standout movements include hand-blown organic glassware with wabi-sabi imperfections, a Mid-Century Modern revival with living brass finishes, bold Brutalist forms, and a growing celebration of local Australian design. Leading materials include aged brass, natural fibres like rattan, and translucent alabaster and stone.

Room by room, the guide recommends a layered lighting approach, with expert advice spanning kitchen linears, bedroom warmth, exterior accent lighting, and the technical essentials — smart integration, CRI ratings, and flexible track systems.