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It’s no secret that we absolutely LOVE wall lights at Z+S!

They pack a designer punch in any space, adding functionality and style. So, when we found out that our good friend, Rose Kiselev — visionary, creative and founder of designer lighting brand We Ponder — had just renovated her own dreamy cottage in Sorell, Tasmania, we jumped at the chance to take a tour. And while we were at it, picked her brains on all things wall lighting — including installation, positioning tips and her top lighting do’s and don’ts.

We Ponder Home Design Details

Project: We Ponder House — Residential Home
Project Location: Sorell, Tasmania
Year Of Completion — 2022

Taking inspiration from Mid-Century Modern design, Rose’s background as an Interior Designer meant that she had a clear vision for her new build — to create a simple, functional floor plan and maximise the stunning vistas of the rolling Tasmanian hills.

Rose achieved this with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in abundant natural light and connect each room to their lush surroundings. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom property, features clean lines, open-plan living and tactile finishes like timber, concrete and copper that complement the beautiful We Ponder ceramic wall lights featured throughout. Note the incredible, custom sunken lounge that provides the perfect spot to kick back, and watch the clouds go by.

Open plan kitchen design with white island bench and timber joinery — We Ponder House • Open Plan Kitchen Design with Timber Joinery and Ceramic Tile Backsplash

Why Designer Wall Lights?

Rose started her career as an Interior Designer in Queensland at a boutique firm, before deciding to launch her own Interior Design Studio designing custom high-end homes for her clients. She noticed a gap in the market for Australian-made lighting at a reasonable price point and from there We Ponder was born.

Launching during Covid-19 when supplier shipping delays were rife, We Ponder became many Interior Designers’ go-to local lighting options for their home projects. After outgrowing their original maker, Rose’s interstate move to Tasmania coincided with a collaboration with a local potter which has since expanded, opening a dedicated We Ponder manufacturing centre as well as setting up a Hobart-based Interior Design Studio and Showroom. This gives clients the ability to view the wall light range, and to design their own homes with We Ponder Interiors.

Rose’s Wall Lights Do’s

Do define a light’s purpose: Do you need task, accent or ambient lighting? Answering this question will help you choose the right lighting type for your space.
Do think about the light’s effect: Do you want it to make the room feel bigger and brighter or provide a soft mood or a separate zone?
Do plan the location: Plan your lighting location and heights during the framing stage with your electrician.
Do add a dimmer: You’ll need to make sure your light fitting is compatible and that your electrician wires it including a dimmer switch.
Do choose a globe colour: Rose’s TOP TIP is to decide if you want cool or warm globes, as the light temperature will really dictate the whole ambience and feel of a room.

Open plan home design with timber cabinets and white sheer curtains — We Ponder House • Open Plan Home Design With Sunken Lounge

Rose’s Wall Light Don’ts

Don’t install switches in view: If you can, install light switches away from the light spread of your wall light for a clean look.
Don’t make lights an afterthought: Consider all lighting at the very beginning of space planning, as they play a big part in the look and feel of each room.
Don't view decorative lighting as just an added cost: Lighting is a valuable investment in your property as a permanent fixture.
Don’t forget aesthetics: Remember that your lighting fixture is part of your design in daylight hours too, so consider its appearance in both on and off states.
Don’t forget levels: Consider the room in three levels: couch level, eye level, and above-head height — incorporating lighting at different heights in the same area.

Rose’s Top 3 We Ponder Picks

Day Tall Wall Light: Has always been one of our absolute favourites and also our best seller.
The new limited edition Fern Wall Light: We are absolutely obsessed with the intricate patterns, cracks and movement within the glaze — it is seriously beautiful and made even more special knowing we don't know how to create it again!
Nudie Wall Light: The perfect balance between neutral and a splash of colour.

Don’t forget to use code ZS10 for 10% off the full range of We Ponder lights.