black lights : all grown up

photo courtesy of hal2

you may remember the first black lights: those mysterious purple and blue bulbs that made things glow in unexpected ways.  whether you had one of your own in junior high or high school or just knew the kids that would, they were fascinating because they inverted your expectations.  they brightened the dull, sparked up a room and made the same space you'd been in for hours suddenly more interesting and full of possibility.

all grown up, this year's 'black lights' are the talk of the design world for much of the same effect.

photo courtesy of vtwonen

while we've grown accustomed to clear, white and even stainless light fixtures, the effect of these beautiful matte black black forms against lighter walls is unexpected.  the exterior finish absorbs light and creates a visual density that emerges in stark contrast to the warm, coppery hand-hammered interior. 

photo courtesy planet deco

the effect mirrors the drama of a well staged fireplace, bringing a modern and yet comforting glow to any setting.  in groups, these black shapes stand out in all of their curves and cone-like forms.

photo courtesy of desire to inspire

above a dining table, across a kitchen island, singly hung beside a bed...

photo courtesy of planet deco

no matter where you put them, these pendants create an orbit of interest.

uncommon pendant no.52927 $464

speedway pendant no.52924 $279

mars pendant no.52926 $279

raceway pendant no.52925 $279

when you're ready to do the unexpected...

when you're ripe for new inspiration...

black lights

all grown up.