With a unique blend of independent advice and
excellent customer service it’s not hard
to see why the new Cotterell Light Centre is set
for success.
Nikki Bruce goes in search of some inspiration…
With branches in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Leeds,
it should come as no surprise that customers flocked
to the grand opening of the Newcastle branch,
last month. Situated on the North Tyne Industrial
Estate, just off the A191, Cotterell Light Centre
is perfectly placed for a visit.
The 10,000 square foot showroom is packed with
lighting for every occasion and style. Divided
into different areas of the home, from the garden
to the bathroom, and with specially created lifestyle
sets, you don’t need to look far for inspiration.
There’s also a huge range of eclectic
accessories and furniture. So alongside the very
latest in lighting you’ll fi nd everything
from batik wall hangings from Thailand and fair
trade gifts from South Africa, to cutting edge
glassware, unique clocks, mirrors and artwork.
We know how essential lighting is to the home
yet many still see it as the fi nishing touch.
Ideally it should be considered at the start of
a project along with paint and fabrics, advises
managing partner, Lorraine Cotterell:
“Lighting is crucial to a room. It needs
to create the right atmosphere as well as being
practical. So whether a customer is at the beginning
of a project or looking to revamp one room, we
are on hand to guide them.” For this reason,
Lorraine believes everything should be available
in store so customers can assess all options.
And with 3000 items available, you’re guaranteed
to find something to suit every taste and budget.
Lovers of cutting edge design can choose from
Philip Stark table lamps, stunning Flos chandeliers
and arco lights as well as many ranges unique
to the north east. Look out for the amazing collection
of coloured fused glass panels created by French
designer Clarrise Dutraive. Operating from her
Parisian studio, Clarisse sets the panels into
a variety of table lamps and wall lights and autographs
every piece.
Traditionalists can opt for the extensive Tiffany
collection or the hand-blown Murano glass pendants
right through to Czechoslovakian crystal chandeliers.
Or why not follow the trend for mixing styles?
Modern chandeliers make a fantastic design statement
when placed in a classic setting and vice versa.
Even children are catered for with a unique range
of fun lighting from animal shaped lamps to hanging
rockets for the ceiling.
However, choosing the right lighting can be
daunting, which is why the experienced staff are
on hand with friendly advice, especially when
it comes to tricky areas such as the kitchen and
bathroom. A home consultancy service is also available
and a team of experts will come to your home to
discuss and plan your lighting needs.
Because of their superb range of specialist products,
this service is also available to commercial developments.
Cotterell regularly undertake projects such as
libraries, hotels, restaurants, bars and offi
ces and are committed to offering cost saving
advice no matter how large or small the project.
Or if it’s only one room, simply bring
in a sketch of socket and furniture locations
and staff will be happy to give you the best solution.
Even if you want to update an existing lamp, just
bring along the base and they’ll search
for the best match.
And with new developments in technology the possibilities
really are endless. Look out for LED systems and
fi bre optics which now mean you can have lights
everywhere from your garden patio, to your bath
and shower.
|
BRIGHT IDEAS
”Lighting is NOT the
finishing touch. Thought should be given at the
earliest stage of decorating to allow for the
correct wiring to be put in place from wall lights,
picture lights, floor and skirting lighting, recessed
downlights etc.
Lighting can enhance features you
love in your home and detract from the one’s
you don’t, so think carefully about a scheme
that will flatter.
Lowering the wattage of bulbs
is a cheap and effective way of changing the mood
and reducing glare.
Most rooms are used for a number
of functions so keep this in mind when choosing
lighting. Be as flexible as possible.
The colour of such things as room
paint and soft furnishings affect the lighting
levels. For example, darker colours will soak
up light. Also, bear in mind ceiling height as
this will affect what styles are available.
Watch out as certain regulations
apply when lighting the kitchen and bathroom.
Be prepared to seek advice."
“Lighting is crucial to a
room. It needs to create the right atmosphere
as well as being practical. So whether a customer
is at the beginning of a project or looking to
revamp one room, we are on hand to guide them.
For an update on what’s new in the world
of lighting or some independent design advice
call: 0191 266 8883 or visit:
www.cotterell-lightcentres.co.uk
Cotterell Light Centre
North Tyne Industrial Estate, Whitley Road, Benton,
Newcastle NE12 9TG
|
