Let There Be Light: Warming Up Winter with Cult Design
There’s something magical about winter. The crisp air, the early sunsets, the quiet hush that settles over the city. But as the days grow shorter and the light fades faster, our homes take on a new role: not just as shelter, but as sanctuaries of warmth, comfort, and creativity.
At Cult Design, we believe that lighting is the soul of a space. It’s what turns a room into a retreat, a corner into a reading nook, a table into a gathering place. And in the heart of winter, it becomes more important than ever.
Lighting That Tells a Story
Every light has a purpose and a personality. Whether you’re drawn to bold sculptural forms or soft, minimalist silhouettes, the right lighting can completely transform how a space feels and functions.
Let’s take a little tour through the home, one light at a time.
Colette ATD6 Table Lamp, P376 Pendant, Formakami Table Lamp | &Tradition
The Pendant: The Statement Maker
Think of pendant lights as the jewellery of your home: elegant, eye-catching, and full of character. Suspended above a dining table or kitchen island, they create intimacy and drama in equal measure. In an entryway, they set the tone for everything that follows.
This winter, try a pendant with a warm glow and a sculptural form. It’s not just lighting, it’s atmosphere.
Gio LN15 | &Tradition
Broad Pendant | NAU
Semi Pendant | GUBI
The Floor Lamp: The Quiet Achiever
Tucked beside a sofa or standing tall in a forgotten corner, the floor lamp is your secret weapon for cozy evenings. It casts a soft, ambient light that wraps around the room like a blanket. Choose one with a dimmer and you’ve got instant mood lighting, perfect for movie nights or late-night chats.
9602 Floor Lamp | GUBI
Flowerpot VP12 | &Tradition
Matin Floor Lamp | HAY
The Table Lamp: The Mood Setter
Table lamps are the unsung heroes of winter lighting. They’re small but mighty, ideal for bedside tables, sideboards, or that little shelf that needs a touch of glow. They’re also a great way to experiment with texture, colour, and shape.
Pro tip: layer a few table lamps throughout your space for a warm, lived-in feel.
Dancer Table Lamp | CocoFlip
Montera Table Lamp | &Tradition
Drome Table Lamp | HAY
The Portable Lamp: The Free Spirit
Portable lamps are the new kids on the block - and we’re obsessed. Cordless, rechargeable, and endlessly versatile, they go wherever you need them: the balcony, the bathroom, the hallway, even the garden. They’re perfect for renters, entertainers, or anyone who loves a little flexibility.
Multi-Lite Portable | GUBI
Como Portable Lamp | &Tradition
PC Portable | HAY
Lighting Inspiration, Room by Room
Gio LN25, Flowerpot VP12 | &Tradition
The Living Room
This is where life happens, where we gather, unwind, entertain, and escape. In winter, the living room becomes a cocoon, and lighting plays a starring role. A sculptural pendant overhead sets the tone, while a floor lamp tucked beside the sofa adds a gentle glow for evening reading. Table lamps scattered across shelves and sideboards bring warmth to every corner, creating a layered, inviting atmosphere that feels like a hug.
The Dining Room
The dining table is more than a place to eat; it’s where stories are shared and memories are made. A pendant light above the table becomes the centrepiece, casting a soft, flattering light that makes every meal feel special. Choose a design that complements your table and adds a touch of drama, whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet bowl of soup on a rainy night.
9602 Pendant, Bagdad Portable Lamp | GUBI
Mist Table Lamp | &Tradition
The Bedroom Room
In winter, the bedroom becomes a retreat; a place to rest, recharge, and dream. Lighting here should be gentle and soothing. Bedside table lamps offer a warm, ambient glow perfect for winding down with a book. A floor lamp in the corner adds depth and balance, while a portable lamp can bring a soft light to unexpected places, like a windowsill or dressing table. It’s all about creating a space that feels calm, cocooned, and yours.
The Home Office
With more time spent indoors, your workspace deserves thoughtful lighting. A well-placed desk lamp helps you stay focused during grey afternoons, while a floor lamp can soften the room and reduce harsh shadows. Choose lighting that energises without overwhelming; something that supports your productivity while still feeling part of your home.
Apex Desk Lamp | HAY
Obello Portable Lamp | GUBI
Outdoor Spaces
Even in winter, your outdoor areas can shine. Portable lamps are perfect for balconies, patios, or garden corners, adding a gentle glow that invites you to step outside, even if just for a moment. Whether you're sipping tea under a blanket or hosting a fireside gathering, outdoor lighting brings a touch of magic to the season.
