How designs have changed over the years
The first light bulbs were invented in the late 19th century, although electric lighting wouldn’t become common in UK homes until decades later. When electricity was first installed in homes and businesses, the humble light switch was primarily a functional element of the home. It was there to switch lights on and off and wasn’t necessarily intended to look good. However, over time, light switches have become part of the design of a home. Whether they are designed to blend in or stand out, we give more thought to what they look like. Today, people are looking back at some retro designs, while combining them with modern functionality.
The History of Light Switches
The first light switch with quick-break technology was invented in Newcastle by John Henry Holmes in 1884. It was followed by the toggle light switch, which was designed in 1897 by William J Newton. The design of standard light switches has changed over time, but switches are often not changed for a long time. They can last for decades and may not be changed until there is a need to do some rewiring. Other light switch designs that can be seen in homes and elsewhere include push-button switches, rocker switches, and even illuminated switches.
The first light switch with quick-break technology was invented in Newcastle by John Henry Holmes in 1884. It was followed by the toggle light switch, which was designed in 1897 by William J Newton. The design of standard light switches has changed over time, but switches are often not changed for a long time. They can last for decades and may not be changed until there is a need to do some rewiring. Other light switch designs that can be seen in homes and elsewhere include push-button switches, rocker switches, and even illuminated switches.
Light switches might have been invented as a purely functional feature. However, many people, from homeowners to interior designers, have started to look at retro styles for their light switches. Retro and vintage-style light switches can be great choices for interior design, whether you are looking for authenticity to create a design that’s accurate to a specific time period or you want to mix old and new. Some people feel like modern designs are a little cold and empty, and lacking in character. Retro designs can add an interesting quirk to any interior.
Combining Retro and Modern
Retro light switches can add a touch of style, but it’s not the only thing that 
people want in a light switch. They also want to combine modern functionality so that their light switches both look great and provide extra features. Some of the things that people are looking for include LED dimmers, smart control, USB sockets, and more.
Not all LED bulbs are dimmable, and standard dimmer switches can’t be used with LED bulbs. However, with the right bulbs and the correct switch, it is possible to successfully control the light level on LED lights.
Adding USB ports to electrical sockets another popular demand. Many devices can now be charged via USB, and plugging them into a traditional plug socket requires a charger with a plug, which is often no longer sold with new devices.
Smart control is another thing that people want in their lights. As well as having a switch on the wall, they want to be able to control their lights from their phone or other devices. It’s also possible to install a smart control panel on the wall for easy access to not just lights but also other smart devices in the home.
Light switches have evolved over the years, branching out to offer more styles and more functionality for modern homes.
