In the latest statistics from UK government, ‘house building starts’ have risen by four per cent compared to last quarter, providing some encouragement to the market place that the economy is improving. With some shoots of recovery in the new build sector and summer just around the corner, there is no better time to consider the latest design considerations for the home environment. Here Jocelyn Mottram at Schneider Electric talks through some of the latest trends in wiring accessories.
When it comes to home improvement, design can be a very personal thing and so for an installer, understanding what shapes the hearts and minds of the consumer is a good place to start. As we enter into the spring and summer seasons the trend for home improvement really heats up, and for the style conscious homeowner it’s the opportune time to make design changes.
From soft furnishings, wallpaper and paints to wiring accessories, it’s the attention to detail that really counts in the home interior. While many may opt to spruce up their furnishings and walls, wiring accessories can make all the difference in creating the perfect room setting.
For the installer, this opens up a wealth of opportunities through the up-sell of stylish and easy-to-fit electrical solutions. Designers and manufacturers have long understood the need for design and the need for choice, which is why for many years wiring accessories have been available in a variety of colours, styles, and materials. From polished chrome finishes, to stainless steel, there is a design solution to suit every home and interior.
While white plastic moulded accessories have dominated home interiors for the last few decades, installers can add value to an installation by suggesting new and interesting finishes that will help to complement the home. A transparent finish featuring a favourite cartoon character for the children’s room, or stainless steel in the kitchen, the choices can be individual, without compromising on safety or performance. Customers can also choose from traditional style switches such as the dolly, a dimmer accessory or even those with sensors.
That’s not to say, however, that there isn’t still a role for white moulded accessories. Modern developments including minimum projection on the back of the products, curved rockers and screw cap covers ensure a slim line profile to create a sleek alternative to some of the more traditional solutions. To aid installation time for the installer, terminals on socket outlets have been angled, colour coded and brought in-line, and plate switches have been up-rated to 16AX, to provide a future proofed solution for changing lighting requirements.
Other design considerations to meet changing desires within the marketplace include a ‘glow in the dark’ mounting frame, to illuminate a control switch, and colour matched flat headed screws for that perfect finishing touch. Needless to say, when it comes to home interiors, consumers are demanding more than ever before and installers must be ready and willing to help them achieve the look that they crave.
Home makeover programmes have really helped to shape the home of today and although consumers are more aware of the options available to them they still look to the installer for help and guidance. Being armed with all the latest information, designs and solutions is therefore key for installers to convert that interest into a sale.
For further information please visit www.schneider-electric.com/uk. Alternatively, follow the company on twitter @SchneiderUK or Facebook www.facebook.com/SchneiderElectricUK.