4 Light Fixtures That Are Out of Style and Need Immediate Replacement (Farewell, Boob Lights!)

Choosing the perfect light fixture can dramatically transform any room, regardless of its size. According to Lauren Carranza, the creative mind behind Seasons for Design, lighting acts as "the jewelry that perfects the outfit." It plays a crucial role in defining the ambiance of a space. That said, not every lighting option stands the test of time. Some fixtures are considered outdated and can give your home a dated appearance. Designers have identified four types of lighting fixtures that you should consider replacing as soon as possible.

Dome-Shaped Ceiling Lights

Often humorously referred to as "boob" lights, these dome-shaped glass fixtures are a common frustration among designers. Evelyn Pierce Smith, the visionary behind Evelyn Pierce Design Studio, describes them as "screaming builder-grade" and a throwback to the early 2000s.

Carranza shares this dislike for the style. "There’s a wealth of more captivating alternatives out there," she explains. "Swap out generic flush mount lights for fixtures with linen or natural marble domes to infuse your space with a cozy, inviting atmosphere."

Ornate Chandeliers

According to Liz Kirby, the creative force behind Surf Road Interiors, elaborate and rusted dining room chandeliers, often found in older homes, have fallen out of favor. "Upgrading to contemporary designs can completely revitalize your dining area," she notes. "We recommend glass or rattan fixtures, depending on the home's overall aesthetic."

Sara Swabb, the founder of Storie Collective, concurs, stating that brass chandeliers with polished glass often appear "dated and excessively formal, particularly with their intricate designs and imitation candlestick bulbs." Modern lighting, she emphasizes, should exude greater warmth and depth.

"A more refined option is a vintage fixture from the 1950s crafted in genuine, unlacquered brass paired with opal or Murano glass shades," Swabb suggests. "Unlike newer, polished versions, unlacquered brass naturally develops a patina over time, offering a timeless, subtle elegance that enhances with age."

Track Lighting

According to Elaine Burns Thompson, the creative mind behind Pistachio Designs, track lighting, often found in basements, "has a very clinical and impersonal vibe." She suggests, "To create a warmer and more welcoming atmosphere, consider incorporating a blend of floor or table lamps." She emphasizes that lighting should ultimately mirror your unique taste and personality.

Fixtures Featuring Clear Glass Shades or Exposed Bulbs

Lauren Waldorf Mendenhall, the visionary behind Lauren Waldorf Interiors, remarks, "Exposed bulbs have an unsettling effect on me, and the maintenance of clear glass shades is another headache." She recommends avoiding such fixtures or making thoughtful adjustments to their design.

"Instead, I’d opt for fixtures with opaque milk glass or tinted glass shades," she suggests. "In certain situations, you can even replace just the shades without needing to upgrade the entire fixture."