We asked some of our Soho Lighting friends, experts in their creative fields, what trends will be hot in the worlds of lighting and design this year...

Muted Metals

“A trend that I’m seeing, which resonates with us at Soho, is that of muted metal finishes like Vintage Brass, Antique Brass and Bronze, which embody a sense of heritage that resonates deeply in interior design. Their timeless elegance and warm, tactile quality bring depth and softness to modern spaces, while their versatility allows effortless pairing with natural materials and varied palettes. These finishes are not only low-maintenance - resisting fingerprints and wear - but also offer subtle tonal variations that give each piece a bespoke, curated feel that creates a sense of story within a space.” 

Ambient Lighting

“I think smart, ambient lighting will play an important role in 2026. I prefer picture lights and table lamps over harsh ceiling lighting, and when this is combined with smart technology, it allows you to create layers of mood and atmosphere with ease. Flexible switching systems that let you control different areas of a room are transformative, giving a space real depth, warmth, and character.” 

Heritage Chic

“There seems to be a swing towards more classical looks both in interiors, fashion and accessories. Brands appear to be going ‘heritage mode’ which gives people a feeling of quality and durability. Many of us are looking for a feeling of authenticity and are tiring of the super-sleek mass-produced. That’s why natural materials are becoming more popular, and metals that patinate and tarnish are viewed as more valuable and unique. In short, I think we’re all tired of feeling like we’re on a conveyor belt of the mundane and mass produced and are looking for some form of individuality. Having control over our carefully collated interiors is a way of enforcing our sovereignty.”

Bespoke Details

“A growing request we’re seeing is for bespoke mirror solutions in luxurious bathrooms. It’s less about following a trend and more about a continued move towards spaces that enhance daily life, practical yet beautifully designed. Concealed storage, flattering integrated lighting, and discreet power access are details that make these environments both functional and restorative.” 

Hardware as "Jewellery"

“I think that same sense of atmosphere - that subtle, layered lighting which transforms a space and mood - is becoming increasingly important to people. Clients are thankfully beginning to view it as a true priority in design. The right lighting can quite literally make or break a room, and we’re lucky that there are now so many wonderful options, not just in the fittings themselves but in their controllability and ease of use. Even sockets and switches - once an afterthought - are finally getting the attention they deserve. There are now such beautifully crafted designs that they become like jewellery within a space, adding to its character rather than interrupting it.” 

Considered Technology

“With a house 220 years old, and one that I'm sure has seen more trends come and go than I've had hot dinners, I tend to steer clear of anything too trend-led and prefer instead to focus on keeping things classic and getting the fundamentals right! So, whilst nothing new, the importance of layering your lighting, and having control of it through dimmers etc to properly set the mood is something I will bang on about year in, year out! What perhaps is new, however, though hopefully an enduring change rather than a trend, is embracing technology to help achieve this. Gone are the days I'm willing to spend 20 minutes running around turning lamps on, dimming them, setting all the wall lights just so... here I have it set so a single press of a button, or even asking 'Alexa' to set a mood can, in seconds, set a whole series of lights to the perfect brightness for a specific task - whether bright for cooking dinner, or dim and cosy ready for a movie!” 

Timeless Design

“I think that lighting is becoming increasingly nuanced as we become more aware of our surroundings. There is no question that the launch of considered details such as the beautifully engraved light switches from Soho are indicative of a move towards quality and timeless design. As we all feel more inclined to design responsibly and sustainably - the appeal of elegant classical design is key whether that is a table lamp or ceiling pendant / chandelier to stand the test of time.  

Decorative Details 

“I think lighting trends will move away from modern sleek designs and start to incorporate more ornamentation and detail as well as a focus on materials like unfinished brass and alabaster.”