Is it fair to say that a light fixture is one single factor that can make or break a room? Recently I’ve come to think so, as I reflect on all the bedrooms I tried to decorate in college rentals before realizing that I never stood a chance against the rickety ceiling fans and cheap flush mount lights I was always working around. The problem, however, is often the price tag. Browse your favorite home shop or antique show only to fall in love with something stunningly beautiful, and in the 4-digit price range.
It can be a total buzzkill for the design lover shopping on a beer budget (also know as me,) which is why we’re always on the hunt for wallet-friendly designs that deliver big time style.
Today we’re sharing light fixtures that do just that, with under-$500 options that look just as good as those designer originals.
Antique Inspired
Even if your space is ultra-modern, an old timey fixture almost always looks good as the focal point of a room. Think it’s got to be from the 17th century and found at a Parisian flea market? Think again. These days antique and antique-inspired light fixtures can be found at a price point that will have you saying oui oui.
Fabric Covered Pendants
For the romantic who always leans towards more feminine styles, we love the unexpected softness of gauze-covered fixtures. Thankfully, these are no longer reserved for deep pockets (you know, the ones that can afford the FLOS Zeppelin Chandelier!) but instead, delicate cotton-covered pendants can be yours for less than $500.
photo from Architectural Digest
photo from Architectural Digest
Mid Century Modern
If you want to add a bit of modern glamour to your space, look no further than the ever-popular MCM light fixtures that can be found all over today’s design market. Look for sculptural metals, globe details, and balanced shapes to bring a bit of geometric interest into your home.
Paper
We’ll always love a paper pendant. The cloud like color combined with origami like shapes strike the perfect balance of architecture-meets-lightness, and thanks to the simple materials found in these fixtures, it’s not hard to score budget friendly options.
Woven Basket
The design world is bursting with woven-everything these days, and light fixtures are no exception. Thanks to the popularity of these natural styles, retailers are stocked up on affordable options that look just as good as pricey originals.
