A visit to a home décor exhibition in Mumbai last month highlighted a growing trend in luxury interiors: statement lighting. From sculptural pieces crafted in glass, leather, stone, and jute to bespoke installations designed for specific spaces, lighting is increasingly becoming a focal point in the home. Designers say customised lighting can transform a room much like a piece of art. “In luxury interiors, we often see lighting move beyond its functional role and become a focal point that ties together materials, colours and architectural elements,” says Revathi Rao Gurram, founder of Stories Design Studio.The key, she adds, is ensuring it remains connected to the home’s broader design narrative.More than just a source of illumination, these pieces add character, create atmosphere, and reflect personal style.
The multicoloured glass and sleek metal rims make this pendant light a striking addition to the space (left) and a sculptural lighting piece designed for the party area, combining function with a playful, conversation-starting narrative (right)
Identity through lightingAs homes become more personalised, lighting is increasingly being used to express individual taste and character, according to experts. “Many homeowners are moving beyond off-the-shelf fixtures in favour of pieces that resonate with their lifestyle, material preferences, and the overall story of their home,” says Shashank Nayak, founder of Abner Lighting, adding, “The conversation is no longer just about illumination; it is about creating a space that feels authentic to the people who live in it.”Arth Kumar, a founder and principal designer of Shreem Interior Designs, adds, “While luxury ready-made fixtures still hold value, there is a noticeable shift towards custom-designed lighting installations that are tailored specifically to the proportions, material palette, and mood of a space.”
Crafted from natural alabaster, the Lynx collection brings a soft, warm glow to interiors while showcasing the stone’s unique charactemr (left); Pearl and Black Pearl celebrate the beauty of alabaster, with sculptural forms that highlight its natural veining, texture and luminosity (center) and Inspired by the silhouette of a lighthouse, Beacon transforms carved alabaster into a warm wall light (right)
What affluent homeowners wantExpressing what young affluent homeowners want, Arth Kumar says, “We are also seeing growing demand for intelligent lighting systems that allow users to adjust brightness and ambience. Above all, clients want lighting that feels personal and seamlessly integrated into the overall design of the space.”“Younger affluent consumers often draw inspiration from luxury hotels, restaurants and resorts. They see lighting as an expression of identity rather than a functional necessity. Smart lighting systems further enable personalisation, allowing homeowners to tailor brightness, colour temperature and ambience to suit their mood,” says Imran Khan, concept designer, The Gold Leafing Studio.“Younger affluent Millennials and Gen Z consumers no longer view lighting as purely functional. They are increasingly aware of how light affects mood and well-being. Sustainability and energy efficiency have also become essential considerations rather than optional features. There is growing appreciation for architectural lighting that blends seamlessly into a space. At the same time, decorative lighting is being treated like functional art, with pendants, lamps, and sculptural fixtures bringing individuality, character, and personal expression into the home,” says Rahul Mistri, founder and principal designer of Open Atelier Mumbai.
Best spaces for statement lighting– Entrance foyers and double-height lobbies: Create a strong first impression and set the tone for the home.– Staircases: Highlight height, movement, and architectural features.– Dining rooms: Add warmth and serve as a striking focal point for gatherings.(as suggested by Revathi Rao Gurram)
Natural stones such as alabaster and marble, known for their depth and translucency, alongside cast concrete and patinated metals that add texture and visual richness, are among the materials shaping current trends in sculptural lighting
Shashank Nayak, founder of a lighting studio
Bespoke lighting offers flexibility in scale, finishes, and functionality. As interiors become more curated and centred on experience, personalised lighting is evolving from a decorative feature into an integral part of the overall design narrative
Arth Kumar, a principal designer of an interior studio
