Sockets and switches in the interior: trends for 2022

For interiors in eco or bionic style, sockets and switches from the Cariva and Valena series from the Legrand brand, which have a flattened shape, are suitable. The main part, for example, the white square switch key or the “patch” of the socket, is enclosed in a square frame. Cariva is characterized by slightly rounded corners, a reduced diagonal, and frames in white, blue-gray, gold or silver. Valena products are more angular, with a wood-like design added. You can choose from the Celiane range of switches, sockets, dimmers and thermostats in ivory or wood/stone finishes. Provence and country are less strict when it comes to decor and color; bright shades and floral prints are allowed. In this regard, the Valena Allure and Valena Life series offer more opportunities.

Color options

Thanks to the wide range, buyers are faced with the problem of how to choose the color of sockets and switches in the interior. When choosing a shade, designers recommend focusing on the color of the wallpaper and the general style of the room:

• minimalism and hi-tech will be complemented by original frames made of frosted light or dark glass or aluminum in gray, red or turquoise shades. Black switches look beautiful in the interior;
• on walls made of untreated brick in loft rooms, in modern and retro rooms, rosettes made of frosted glass and metal (copper, bronze) would be appropriate;
• for classic interiors, decorative items made from expensive materials are suitable: brass, bronze, silver, gilding;
• for decorating a Provence , you can look for pink products; Country style will be complemented by objects made of natural wood.

Classic-looking products in neutral white and beige shades will fit into almost all interiors.

Polymer clay

Polymer clay is an ideal material for sculpting enthusiasts. With its help it is easy to create a custom relief design with an interesting texture. For children you can choose cartoon characters, and for adults - patterns, inscriptions, curls. This is a great chance to captivate all family members with creativity, gathering them around a large table. You can mount figures on a flat surface or create texture by making an impression on a damp clay surface.

Designer sockets and switches with original shapes

Square and rectangular sockets in the interior acquire a stylish look thanks to expensive materials: leather, wood, stone. Decorative devices of round or oval shapes made of colored frosted glass look elegant and bright.

Switches (with rotary switches) made of porcelain and painted ceramics have a vintage look.

Decoupage

Tear off a design or pattern from a beautiful napkin and apply it to the switch with liquid white or PVA glue. After drying, coat the area with varnish on top. If there are pieces of bright wrapping paper left after the holidays, it can be easily used for original decor. You need to remove the plastic panel of the switch, cut out the paper with an allowance of 5 cm, glue it and return it to its place.

Recommendations for each room

When planning the location of outlets and even their appearance, it is necessary to clearly understand the future functionality of each room. It is highly desirable when the owners already know in advance what types of headsets will be installed in the premises. And also what electrical appliances will work in them.

Kitchen

Each household appliance in this room must have its own outlet. And at least three of them must be placed above the tabletop level. Connection points for all stationary devices can be hidden.

And since it is strictly forbidden to use an extension cord for the refrigerator, the socket for it is placed according to the length of the cord.

For mobile devices (blender, mixer), as well as for those that are used occasionally (juicer, yogurt maker), open type sockets are needed. They need easy access and are best placed in the work area, in the kitchen apron. Moisture-resistant structures are given priority.

Bedroom

The main sockets and switches in the interior of the rest room must be located at the head of the bed. Here you need places to connect charging mobile devices and gadgets. Sockets for lighting equipment (sconces, floor lamps, table lamps) are also required.

Even if the bed is single, it is best if the switching devices are on both sides of it. In the case of a double bed, this condition is mandatory.

All other plugs and switches are distributed throughout the room in accordance with the zoning of the room. The boudoir is supplied in abundance with them. As well as a workplace if it is located in the bedroom. Very often, a master switch is installed near the bed, at arm's length. To turn off the lighting not only in this room, but throughout the entire house in one motion.

Children's

The room for a child should be equipped with electrical appliances to the bare minimum. This is required by basic security measures. And those switches and sockets that are absolutely necessary in the room should be hidden.

And it is best to purchase special products with protective valves or lids. Such sockets are also called children's sockets.

Corridors and halls

In these rooms, sockets are located in the European style, at the very bottom. They are needed to connect a vacuum cleaner, as well as for arranging decorative lighting. In the form of floor lamps.

Switching devices are mounted so that they are convenient to use, practically automatically extinguishing the light at the exit from the house. And turning it on immediately after opening the door. And for these purposes, a single master switch is best suited.

Bathroom

Gone are the days when it was strictly forbidden to use electrical appliances in the bathroom. True, even now you can get a fine from the fire inspectorate for an open socket in the bathroom. But back in Soviet times, the light in this room was turned on only from the corridor.

Modern standards do not prohibit placing any number of sockets in the bathroom. You just need to protect them from water. It is also an unspoken rule to install network connection points no lower than 15-20 cm from the floor. Because there is a risk of flooding in the room, in which the sockets will be flooded with water.

For the same reasons, attaching plugs near the water intake is prohibited. And they should be at least 60 cm away from the sink and bathtub. But it is better when it is increased to one meter.

As for quantity, a couple of low-cost ones will be enough for a washing machine and boiler. Two more will be needed for the razor and hair dryer. They can be placed on the upper level. And if the mirror requires lighting, then it is better to equip an additional hidden exit.

Living room

Since the room is very multifunctional, options for the location of network connections must be thought through in advance, even before installing the furniture. According to the standard design, it is enough to equip each wall with a pair of sockets. This is enough to connect a TV with a stereo system and all lighting devices.

But if there is a work area with a desk in the living room, then only for a desktop computer you will need at least six connectors. And this is not counting sockets for a table lamp and, for example, a fan. Moreover, you need to think about their location. For a PC, the European version is suitable, but for a laptop it is better to choose the Soviet one.

Exterior decor and interior styles

Let's consider the methods and techniques of external design of sockets and switches adopted in modern interior design.

It should be noted that when buying an outlet, you should immediately worry about how organically this product will fit into the interior of the apartment. It’s better to think through the shapes and sizes of the products in advance so that you can go to the store purposefully, clearly imagining the final design of your apartment. Otherwise, there is a risk of purchasing the wrong item.

How to choose a socket for the most popular interior styles?

Country

If your house or apartment is decorated in that relaxed “country” style that values ​​all things natural, we recommend purchasing models with an eco-friendly leather top covering. Leather can be either natural or artificial.

Minimalism

This interior style is found very often in the design of modern housing. Laconic products in dark shades are ideal for it: gray, black, beige. The shape of sockets and switches is square with rounded corners.

High tech

This modern design can be complemented by models with chrome finish or tempered glass, transparent. Touch-sensitive high-tech switches will also fit perfectly into the high-tech style.

Modern

Bright products with a strict geometric shape will fit perfectly into an Art Nouveau interior. The color spectrum is wide: red, yellow and green triangles, squares and circles will suit the yard in such a home.

Loft

This American style, implying large, deliberately rough spaces, is becoming popular in the megacities of our country. Sockets and switches in the loft interior should be made of thick frosted glass, reminiscent of an industrial finish.

Models finished with colored glass and metal will also look quite harmonious.

Ethnic

stylized to resemble the following materials will best fit into it

• cherry;
• dark mahogany;
• light maple wood.

In addition, the ethnic style implies various paintings and ornaments, so the sockets in the ethnic interior can be decorated with similar decor. Including ceramic and wood models.

Empire, Baroque, Rococo

These historical styles imply luxury, wealth, chic and beauty, therefore they love everything pompous, flashy, reminiscent of the design of palaces. The design of sockets and switches should also not lag behind the overall splendor, so in this case you can use gilded models decorated with rhinestones, stones, elegant decor, and ornaments.

Retro

This interior style implies rounded shapes and fairly large sizes, so the sockets in this case should be decent in size: round, square or rectangular.

The switches are designed accordingly and have characteristic small keys. The color of the rosettes is neutral, often dull, vintage, with a worn effect.

How to choose an outlet

Numerous characteristics and installation methods must be taken into account when choosing products for certain premises, for specific equipment.

By voltage

The main parameters by which you need to select a device are the current and voltage of electrical appliances. Previously, almost all products were produced with a current of 6A and a voltage of 220-230V. And if such an outlet was used to connect several devices, then fire and melting of the housing often occurred.

In modern apartments, the number of household appliances has increased significantly, and the technical characteristics of the devices have changed. Therefore, manufacturers began to produce more powerful sockets. It is recommended to install products designed for a current of 10 or 16A.

By number of seats

Sometimes it is advisable to mount a socket block at one point. The number of “seats” can vary from two to four. It is advisable to place such models near work tables, on the wall behind the TV or in the work area in the kitchen.

By mounting method

The choice of installation method for the outlet is determined not only by the style of the interior, but depends primarily on the wiring installation option:

• When installing hidden wiring, an internal (hidden) outlet is installed. In this case, the core of the products is hidden in the wall, and only a special overlay is left on top;
• The overhead model goes well with open-type wiring. To make the product look aesthetically pleasing, manufacturers produce sockets in various beautiful shades with a minimalist design. You need to carefully choose the location so that no one touches the protruding body.

If there is a need to install an outlet near the baseboard or in the floor, then floor installation is used. You can install a retractable device in an apartment or private house. Naturally, the electrical wiring is hidden in the floor. An original idea is to arrange a similar outlet in the kitchen countertop.

By connector

Many countries use sockets with different plugs. About 15 types are known. Naturally, when purchasing equipment today, you must first of all pay attention to the shape of the fork (in addition to the performance characteristics).

Manufacturers have taken into account possible difficulties and therefore there are all kinds of adapters on sale that solve the problem of matching plugs and connectors.

For fastening wires

The method of connecting the wires themselves to the phase, neutral and ground connectors also differs. So, there are the following types of light switches:

• Screw-type, where special screws and adapter blocks are provided. This option is used less and less, but is safer, although it is only suitable for aluminum conductors.
• Screwless, involving fixation of wires using other fasteners: insulating tape, terminals.

Modern models of sockets and switches

The functions of familiar devices have expanded significantly thanks to technology. And already familiar sockets and switches become important elements of the “smart home” system.

USB sockets

Such devices are increasingly in demand, since you don’t need a lot of wires or removable power supplies to connect gadgets - all you need is a USB cable. Important advantages:

• the device is compact, functional and located in a specific location;
• Can be installed in place of a regular outlet. Replacement takes literally half an hour.

Moreover, when charging a tablet or smartphone, the main outlet remains free.

Sockets with timer

Devices equipped with timers of various types are in increasing demand. The time interval for the socket operation is set by an electronic timer (there are buttons and a display) or by a traditional rotary mechanism.

As an option, a timer allows you to program the time to turn on a fan or street lighting, which provides comfort and helps save energy.

Remote control switch

This device allows you to control both single lighting fixtures and entire systems. Thanks to the remote control, it is easy, while in the same room, to simultaneously turn on or off the lights in different rooms. This is especially convenient in large apartments where there is multi-level lighting, or in multi-storey private houses.

Infrared, ultrasonic, radio frequency and other devices are used to control switches. The range ranges from 20 to 500 m.

Switches with built-in motion sensor

Such devices bring comfort to everyday life and ensure rational use of electricity. The principle of operation of the switch is to detect movement at a certain distance from the sensors. Numerous devices can be classified according to the control method, installation features, operating principle, and functionality.

Motion-activated devices must be placed taking into account the area of ​​good visibility. All kinds of obstacles (cornices, curtains, hanging structures) can affect the operation of the devices.

Book spines

It’s easy to make an original aristocratic switch cover from old, tattered books. At the same time, both spines and waxed pages are suitable for decoration. You need to cut blanks from old books or magazines of a suitable shape, leaving indentations along the edges for folding. Glue the workpiece to the plastic cover and return it to its place. For greater durability, cover the surface with a transparent matte or glossy varnish.

Adjustment to the interior of the room

When buying a switching device, you need to visualize how it will fit into the interior. It is extremely important that its appearance and colors do not stand out from the general style of the room. Otherwise, the impression of the room will be spoiled.

Let's look at the recommendations for choosing for each style:

• Country. Rustic design requires simplicity as well as naturalness. Therefore, the plastic of the switch can be disguised with a leather covering. It may even be artificial.
• Minimalism. Square designs with rounded edges are ideal for the most modest of modern styles. As for color, the priority is grey, black and white.
• High tech. Style loves chrome and glass. Therefore, transparent switches will fit perfectly into the environment. But the design also emphasizes everything new in technology. And touch devices will easily find their place.
• Modern. A bright style requires extraordinary colors, but enclosed in a strict geometric shape. Therefore, green triangles, red squares and yellow circles will be in place.
• Loft. One of the most interesting and popular styles requires deliberate roughness. Therefore, a good solution would be to use devices that imitate industrial ones in the interior. Switches and toggle switches made of metal fit best into industrial design.
• Ethnic. This requires complete naturalness, which is best emphasized by wood. Such as cherry, light maple and dark mahogany. Also, ornaments and patterns are not alien to the style.
• From Empire to Rococo. All trends reflecting historical eras require luxury and pomp. Therefore, the color scheme should only be gold. And if the device is decorated with rhinestones and appropriate painting, then the interior will only benefit.
• Retro. The style loves large sizes and rounded shapes. In addition, vintage is a must. And it can be achieved with a worn effect. The color of sockets and switches should be neutral.

Experts do not recommend making switchgear accents unless the style requires it. Since these items are more practical in nature, often the best solution is to simply disguise them. For example, make it the same color as the wall.

Material

Let's look at what materials modern sockets are made from.

• Plastic. The most popular and practical material for such products. Plastic models are very convenient and inexpensive.

• Metal. These options are ideal for apartments decorated in modern styles: minimalism, hi-tech, loft.

Stone. Models made from this natural material will organically fit into “natural” styles: country, ethnic, rustic.

• Tree. Products made from this natural, eco-friendly material will fit perfectly into simple, uncomplicated styles that are close to natural.

• Glass. Elegant glass models look great in modern interiors. They can truly decorate a home, sometimes becoming almost works of art. You can choose glass rosettes decorated with beautiful decor and rhinestones.

Nowadays, in the wake of the general passion for “green” design, the design of outlets is not left aside. So, designers have already come up with a unique way of decorating them with stylized mosses, lichens, and green grass. It looks, of course, unusual, but it can decorate the now fashionable “eco-living” space.

Adviсe

If you are choosing a product for a children's room, opt for bright models in cheerful colors, and do not forget about the plugs for them. Modern manufacturers also produce special options designed specifically for children. Such products are safe and have built-in curtain protection from inquisitive fingers.

If you want the design of sockets and switches to match the individual style of your apartment, you can decorate them to your own taste. Now on sale there are all kinds of stencils for painting, various stickers, and other devices for decoration.

If you need an outlet for the bathroom or kitchen, we recommend choosing models with moisture protection. The fact that the product has such protection is indicated by a special marker on its packaging.

If you want to control the flow of electricity into your home, choose an option with a timer. It allows you to adjust the time during which the outlet will operate.

Optimal wiring directions

The presence of separate directions will help to simplify the process of monitoring the operation of the electrical network. With such a separation, there is always the possibility of turning off one and allowing the others to work.

In practice, the most common is considered to be four directions:

• Basic equipment;
• Sanitary unit;
• Kitchen space;
• Lighting systems.

If the system is old, then, for example, a separate cable is laid for washing equipment.

The listed directions have their own characteristics, which should be taken into account when wiring. Work in the kitchen and bathroom is carried out according to certain rules. It is best to study in more detail the arrangement for all lines separately, then the wiring will be done correctly.