How to save on quality: sockets and switches, the best brands of manufacturers. Sockets in the room: placement and design ideas suitable for interior design (105 photos) Sockets in different colors

Electricity, which is a valuable energy resource, provides an opportunity to bring warmth and comfort to a house or apartment, a special atmosphere of comfort, moreover, it warms in cold weather, provides light and power to electrical appliances.

Modern housing does not do without all kinds of household devices and devices powered by a network or mobile gadgets that require recharging, computers and TVs, it is impossible to imagine leisure.

A full-fledged layout of functioning power sources must be carefully thought out and worked out before a set of works on arranging housing or utility rooms in an apartment is carried out.

Having studied in detail the proposed photos of sockets in the room, you can independently prepare a project for the distribution of power sources, it will take into account interior and design solutions.

What determines the placement of outlets and installation

In each residential or utility room, ready for living, there are already certain engineering systems and communications, which include the supply of electrical wires to certain outputs.

When pre-planning the future distribution of sockets in any room, it is important to install them so that they are freely accessible and do not spoil the aesthetics of the design of the allocated functional area.

In addition to the necessary power supplies, you can install one or two that can be used instead of busy sockets, in case of emergency and when the need arises.



Conceptual features of the placement of sockets

According to frequently used European standards, power supplies for electrical appliances and electronic devices must be installed at least 15 cm from the floor, do not forget that in this case, small children and animals get open access to them.

Adhering to the most important safety norms and rules, the correct location of sockets is carried out at the level of a raised hand, which can significantly affect the concept of stylistic design of a living room for any purpose.

No more than one socket can be provided for the corridor, which is used in case of emergency or for connecting an electric dryer for wet shoes.

Bathroom and toilet. Power sources are placed next to the hair dryer mirror and in close proximity to washing machine ensuring its continued performance.




Living room or common room. First you need to accurately determine the planned location of the TV and tuner, wall sconces or floor lamps installed on the floor, 3-4 separate slots are enough.

Kitchen or dining area. In such dedicated areas, the installation height of the sockets plays important role, to comply with increased security, 2-3 sockets with a protective housing are mounted.






Bedroom or boudoir. Sockets are effectively distributed on both sides of the bed, to provide easy and comfortable access to them when turning on additional lamps or installing gadgets for charging.

Personal and office space. The provided 5-7 slots are enough for the normal operation of a personal computer and a monitor, additional devices such as a printer, scanner or speaker system.

Children's or playroom. For these premises, power sources with specialized protection are selected; they must be located outside the reach of children, at the level of the shoulders of an adult.

Special attention must be paid to the socket, which is intended to power air purification systems or air conditioners, due to the specifics of their installation, power supplies are mounted 30 cm below the ceiling.

What to do if there are not enough outlets

Knowing how to install a socket with your own hands, you can supplement the existing power supply system and provide your family and friends with comfortable access to free devices to charge your phone or other needs.



Self-assembly must be carried out on the basis of the general concept of decorating a room or its functional area with a preliminary shutdown of the power supply to the entire apartment, observing increased security measures and not leaving the wires exposed.

Photo of sockets in the room

To secure your home and create an original interior, it is necessary not only to correctly position the electrical accessories, but also to consider all the ways to connect it. Sockets and switches play a significant role in this matter, which can complete the created interior. Among the huge range of models, it is worth choosing the necessary design of sockets and switches that will fit into the room in a certain style. Thanks to small tips and advice, everyone will be able to choose the right version of the product that will fit their needs. intended purpose and not pose any danger to human life.

Due to the large range of products, you can easily get confused and choose the wrong model that does not fit the technique and design. In order not to be mistaken, you should first of all familiarize yourself with the general classification, which is divided into 2 main groups:

  • by appointment;
  • by design.

Each category includes several items, which allows you to choose an outlet model for a particular type of room.

Do not forget about an important criterion - the price. Cheap goods will be of poor quality, which means that the period of work will be short.

Types of sockets by purpose

There are several types of sockets that have different purposes:

  1. With protective curtains. This model is perfect for apartments and houses with small children.
  2. With fork ejector. For convenience, the developers installed a special button in the corner of the outlet. When pressed, the repulsion mechanism and the fork are activated, without special efforts, is taken out. The service life in such structures is several years longer.
  3. With grounding. The standard socket has 2 holes to which 2 electrical wiring contacts are attached. In models with grounding, there are 3 of them, so when turned on, the grounded contacts first contact, and then with the current. If you follow the electrical safety standards, then in the house it is necessary to install only sockets with grounding.
  4. For outdoor placement. Often, electricity must be moved outside the house or building. But open outlets can be unsafe. In this case, you should pay attention to models with a high degree of security, as well as a cover. Neither precipitation nor temperature changes will harm such a device.
  5. For rooms with high humidity. The apartment or house has rooms with high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Electricity is also used here, but due to high humidity standard products cannot be put into operation. For such premises, models marked IP44 are suitable. Inside there are rubber gaskets that prevent moisture from entering the electricity.

The listed types of sockets are classified as power, but there are also low-current ones. These include: satellite, antenna, computer and telephone.

Types of sockets by design

Important in terms of safety is the design of the outlet. To date, the following main types are distinguished:

  • With and without screw terminal. In the first case, the contacts are placed between two plates, which are fixed to each other with a screw. In the second version, the wires are clamped in special contact holes.
  • For open and internal wiring. Overhead sockets are used when they are mounted on walls. They are most often found in country houses and cottages. Built-in sockets are used when it is necessary to hide the wires inside the wall. In this case, the electrical part is also hidden.

According to experts, the quality of work will be higher for sockets with a screw terminal.

To date, manufacturers produce a huge range of switches, which differ not only in appearance. They can be manual or automatic. In addition, there are several other characteristic differences that modern manufacturers use.

  1. With or without illumination. Universal are classic old-style models without backlight. To the body modern switches Manufacturers have installed LEDs. Thanks to this, the interior dark rooms(entrance hall, corridor and bathroom) it will be possible to find the switch without any problems.
  2. Regulators. If a we are talking about incandescent lamps, it is worth considering designs with lighting controls. They can be of two types: sensory and mechanical. Most often, a remote control can be included in the package. remote control glow intensity.
  3. Checkpoints. Modern designers plan several light sources in the same room at the same time. Pass-through switches are used to manage multiple groups.

As in the case of sockets, switches can be divided into 2 types depending on the wiring: external and internal.

Types of switches depending on the design features of the mechanism

The most popular are key switches. Their cost is affordable for everyone, so they are used in the interior of houses and apartments. To improve the model, manufacturers have developed one-, two- and three-gang switches. The first option is used to turn on and off one electrical circuit. The second is for adjusting multi-lamp fixtures. The third one is installed if there are several groups of luminaires that will be controlled in one place.

Among modern switches it is worth highlighting newer models:

  • rotary;
  • push-button;
  • sensory.

Another type of switches stands out - corded. It is used in portable lighting fixtures(floor lamps).

Today, manufacturers produce a wide range of electrical accessories, which are made of high-strength materials. Thanks to a variety of shapes, designs and colors, everyone can find switches and sockets suitable for any style. When choosing, you should take into account the style, for example, monochromatic options are suitable for the classic, and the Empire or Provence style provides for imitation precious metals. For children's rooms there are separate collections, which are made in the form of animals, toys in bright colors.

To modern direction, hi-tech, electrical accessories are selected with frames made of frosted or colored glass. If we are talking about a girl's bedroom, then decorating with Swarovski stones is acceptable. Some manufacturers are engaged in the development and production of exclusively retro sockets.

For creating original interior you can purchase plain switches, which are applied with patterns from the film. In addition, color is of great importance. Not everyone will go well with finishing materials, so experts advise taking into account even the color of the furniture.

There is no need to use exclusively white, identical sockets and switches in all rooms. Thanks to a large assortment, you can safely experiment and select original combinations. For example, in the kitchen, either wood or plastic is present in the finish, so the body must be made of such materials or imitate them.

In addition, it is worth considering that if gloss prevails in the room, then the use of matte elements will be unsuccessful, and vice versa. When choosing colored products, you should not take into account the shade of the walls, as it will be difficult to find an identity.

Pure white switches have not been popular for a long time, even when it comes to light finishes. In this case, the electrical accessories will be lost.

AT recent times Everyone cares about saving electricity. The modern system "smart home" will help in this matter. The program will automatically regulate not only the intensity of the glow, but also if there is no need to turn off the power. You can install such a system with your own hands, but first it is important to familiarize yourself with all the subtleties, as well as get expert advice.

The system is based on passive infrared sensors or photocells, which will automatically control all processes. In this case, there is no need to install a large number of switches, since the "smart home" will clearly fulfill the parameters set by the user. The design of sockets and switches will be different.

Thanks to the innovative system, you can not only save energy consumption, but also avoid fire. If a person forgot to turn off the iron, the system will automatically turn off the power in the outlet.

Ecology and naturalness take the leading place among fashion trends. Manufacturers of sockets and switches also decided to use this direction to create an original "live" design. Some companies have managed to combine plants with sockets and switches.

For decoration, live mosses and lichens were used. It is worth noting that this invention requires care and caution, since the plants need to be fed with water, which can lead to a short circuit.

Big fans of vegetation and ecology lovers can decorate their switches and sockets with a herbarium.

In order not to lose your money and buy high-quality products, you must follow some rules:

  1. All parameters must be indicated on the inner surface of the socket or switch. Study them carefully.
  2. Signs of quality and international certification are also important.
  3. Inspect the product carefully. If for the manufacture were used poor quality materials, it will be immediately visible. The build level is also checked.

All imported products must have a certification mark. Otherwise, such a product is considered counterfeit.

Undoubtedly, the range of electrical accessories is very large. But even in such a variety, you can easily get confused and buy the wrong outlet or switch. Only high-quality products can last a long time and not carry danger. Do not forget that the final stage is the installation of products. It is better to entrust this work to specialists.

Video

From the provided video, you will learn about correct location and the choice of sockets and switches in the interior of the dwelling:

The choice is quite difficult. Electrical goods of Russian and foreign manufacturers presented on the market in a wide range and in a different price range. Safety and quality are the main parameters of electrical appliances. It is not worth relying only on external design. We have analyzed the market for electrical goods in terms of price-quality ratio and offer the most reliable sockets and. The best brands of manufacturers according to expert estimates of construction companies are presented in this review.

When choosing the best manufacturers, in addition to the basic price-quality ratio, attention was paid to the quality of materials, maintainability, external design, and functional features. Manufacturers of exclusive samples did not participate in the selection. Only classic and traditional.

Manufacturer/Photo Brief description, review of advantages and disadvantages

French company with over 100 years of history. Products are known all over the world.Advantages:
  • high quality;
  • a diverse range of models;
  • new products are made according to perfect scientific developments.

Of the shortcomings, only the high price can be noted, which is fully justified by the high quality.


The first Italian manufacturer began to pay attention to product design. The company has been owned by Legrand, a manufacturer from France, since 1989. Up to 1000 new products are produced annually. Advantages:
  • availability of certificates of compliance with international standards;
  • products are made in unique design in which you can easily recognize the style of the manufacturer. Products can be selected for any interior;
  • in productive processes, the latest technologies are used, with the help of which home wiring is automated;
  • simple device, installation of devices is carried out independently;
  • varied, constantly updated range.

The only downside is the cost. This did not prevent the manufacturer from bringing products to second place.


Schneider Electric

A manufacturer from Germany, the company was founded in 1836, but they began to manufacture electrical products from the end of the 19th century. The main workshops are located in France. Pluses:
  • products of only excellent quality, which is confirmed by international tests;
  • stylish, recognizable design;
  • products meet safety requirements;
  • simple installation;
  • it is possible to perform combined designs thanks to interchangeable frames;
  • a wide range of products.

There are no drawbacks, except for the high price.


Manufacturer from South Korea. The date of foundation is the middle of the last century. Currently, the brand represents Legrand in the middle price category. Advantages:
  • budget cost;
  • high quality, corresponding to the entire line of Legrand products;
  • reliability;
  • simple installation;
  • clear geometry, color scheme is made in neutral shades;
  • modularity allows self-combination;
  • manufacturer releases automated systems and devices designed to protect premises.

The company produces sockets with and without grounding. The design of the box is made in the form of a rectangle or oval. Disadvantages:

  • limited design. However, new collections slightly diversify the range of budget products.

A manufacturer from Germany produces high-quality German sockets and switches in the budget price range. Rounded lines in the design of the cases, a variety of colors allows you to fit them into any room design. Pluses:
  • affordable price;
  • high-quality materials are used in the production;
  • thanks to interchangeable frames, you can perform an interesting combination of products;
  • easy installation, all wires are terminated very neatly;
  • wide model range.

Disadvantages:

  • in ceramic bases it is difficult to establish two contacts, there is not enough space;
  • fragility.

Representative of Schneider-Electric. In Russia, products are presented in the budget price category. The high quality of the materials used puts the company in the top ten. Advantages:
  • quality;
  • low cost;
  • use in the production of high-quality plastic;
  • products meet all safety requirements;
  • neutral, color scheme, interesting design and shape;
  • modular products due to interchangeable frames can be combined;
  • child protection provided.

Devices are produced without it. Modern models complemented by lighting. Concealed installation possible. Disadvantages:

  • humble design. External design confirms the budget cost.

Turkish manufacturer, subsidiary of DernekGROUP. On the market of electrical products since 2007. Advantages:
  • good quality goods;
  • materials used in production meet all environmental safety requirements;
  • thanks to interchangeable frames, you can diversify the design;
  • moderate cost.

Disadvantages:

  • weak clamps;
  • ill-conceived fasteners;
  • fragility.

A company from Turkey has been known on the market since 1990. Advantages:
  • quality;
  • functionality;
  • simple installation;
  • wide color scheme;
  • meets high safety requirements;

Products in the middle price segment have received wide recognition from home craftsmen due to their excellent quality and easy installation.


A group of companies from Russia, in cooperation with French and German manufacturers, entered the market of electrical products in 1999. The main trump card is the cost. Color solution Available in neutral or white shades. A collection with a texture design has been released, with which you can decorate any modern interior space. Advantages:
  • the lowest cost on the market for similar products;
  • interchangeable frames;
  • wide range of colors;

Disadvantages:

  • before installation it is necessary to check all contact connections. In these places, weak fixing is possible.

Russian manufacturer, date of foundation - 1998. There are more than 10,000 products in the product catalog. Advantages:
  • simple installation;
  • the possibility of combining models;
  • interesting design;
  • high quality modular systems.

The negative points include a low range. This is due to the fact that these products are not the main focus of the manufacturer. In addition, the products are quite expensive.

Which sockets are better to install in the apartment: basic recommendations

The main requirements for the choice of sockets and switches are reliability and convenient operation, since we use electrical appliances in everyday life. In addition, the time of its operation depends on the quality of the product. The use of low-quality products is fraught with significant consequences:

  • fire;
  • unreliable fastening entails the case jumping out of the box;
  • electric shock;

These negative points are characteristic of sockets. For switches, the consequences are not so fraught. When choosing them, it is important to consider compatibility with other light sources, such as diode strips. Flickering may occur if misaligned.

The range of electrical products is quite large, you should not opt ​​for the first model that the home master or the seller at the outlet will advise. It is necessary to independently calculate all compliance with the required parameters.

The main criteria for choosing sockets

  • For internal wiring in a room, you need to choose an internal model. Its installation is carried out in a mounting box, for which a corresponding hole is first made in the wall surface. The case remains on the wall;
  • for outdoor wiring, it is necessary to install a socket that is completely on the wall surface;
  • an important selection criterion is the presence or absence of . If there is a grounding conductor in the wiring, you should choose a grounded outlet;
  • the presence of additional springs in the connectors of the sockets will provide a more rigid connection when the plug is turned on;
  • if it is necessary to constantly turn on several electrical appliances, it is recommended to install a socket block;
  • screw connection of conductors. This is a more reliable way to fix the wire with screws;
  • screwless connection in special contact holes - may loosen over time.

In addition to the basic parameters, you can choose from individual characteristics. Models with special protection against childish pranks, additionally equipped with curtains, which, when turned on, are squeezed out with a fork. Or sockets with a special ejection of the plug of an electrical appliance using a key. This is especially true for the kitchen. They completely exclude direct contact of dirty and wet hands.

how interesting option, you can consider devices with a light indicator, which is very important for use in dark time days. The built-in timer allows you to accurately set the time, for example, until the end of cooking.

If necessary, you should choose a floor retractable model that will decorate any interior with its design.

A non-standard solution is a window installation option powered by sunlight. This is an expensive product, but over time, the project pays off completely.


Basic selection criteria for circuit breakers

The choice of the switch should also be approached as prepared as possible. The main parameters are the same as when choosing sockets. First of all, it is important to establish what type of electrical wiring they will be intended for. With hidden installation on the wall surface, only remains in visual view. Mounting with open installation remains completely on the surface.

Symbols are marked on the case. Care should be taken when selecting parameters taking into account the degree of protection.

A wide range of models and colors allows you to effortlessly choose products for any interior design.

Base material

Nowadays, sockets are made from ceramic or thermoplastic. Each of these materials is good in its own way. But safety is affected not only by the base material, but also by the reliability of fastening.

Ceramics

  • meets all requirements fire safety, the material is resistant to elevated temperatures;
  • the material has a porous base, which contributes to the penetration of dust and moisture. This may cause a short circuit;
  • fragility, if dropped, damage is possible.

thermoplastic

  • non-flammable, resistant to high temperatures;
  • the structure of the material is dense, retains moisture and water on the surface, without changing its dielectric properties;
  • Rugged body, low drop damage.

Thermoplastic sockets are more reliable than ceramic sockets, which lose their dielectric properties over time.


Rated current

Before choosing sockets and switches for an apartment, you should clarify the operating parameters: the magnitude and type of current, voltage indicators, its jumps. The household network has an alternating voltage of 220 V, the frequency of which is 50 Hertz.

For the rated current, the load from the operation of electrical appliances in a particular outlet is important. If the passport for an electrical appliance indicates a load of 12 amperes, you cannot choose a socket designed for 6 or 10 amperes. She just might melt. You should purchase a model with a parameter of 12 amperes.

Properly labeled for this example will look like this: ~ type of current is alternating, rated current 16 A, voltage 220 V.

Important! If the socket is not marked conventions and labeling, you should refuse such a purchase.

Properly selected parameters will extend the life of the outlet.

Degree of protection

This is one of the most important criteria. Exist general classification designation standards, knowing which you can easily select required model. Designations on the IPAB body, where "A" is the numerical designation of the diameter and type of object from which the electrical device is protected. "B" - waterproof.

Parameter designation "A"
Parameter Diameter, mm, object type
1 From 50, palm.
2 From 12 to 50, palm and fingers.
3 From 2.5 to 12, palm, fingers, tool for manual use.
4 1 to 2.5, all of the above plus small fasteners and conductors.
5 Reliable protection of the body from dust and mechanical impact of objects.
6 Dust-proof housing, full protection against mechanical influences.
0 The case is not protected
Parameter designation "B"
Number Moisture protection
1 Protection against vertical individual drops
2 Protection against individual drops in vertical and 15° angles.
3 Protection against drops similar to rain.
4 Protection against water splashes falling under various slopes.
5 Protected against jet water.
0 Housing is not waterproof

In an example, it looks like this. AT ordinary room sockets with the designation IP 20 are suitable, for the bathroom, IP 44 models should be used.

Rating of sockets and switches of a high price category

The rating of premium electrical installation products includes devices costing the equivalent of $5 or more. Their quality is confirmed by international safety standards. Manufacturers with a long history fight for the high quality of each product. A lot of time is devoted to the release of new collections. It should be noted the recognized leaders Lergrand, Bticino and Schneider-Electric.

As an example, you can pay attention to the latest models and collections of manufacturers.

Sockets and switches "Legrand": the collection "CELIANE" - innovations in the present


In the non-working state, the case is in line with the frame, excluding contact with the wiring. This is designed to reduce dust settling.

Safety, stylish appearance and natural purity are the main standards of the Legrand premium line.

Bticino's Living Light Air collection switch - a breakthrough into the future

The thinnest frames up to 5 mm thick. Anthracite color will emphasize the uniqueness of each room. Within the frame, you can install a case with 1 or 3 keys.

Frames are the main focus of the collection. The thinnest material in a range of 11 colors. You can pick up beautiful switches and sockets for any decoration of your beloved home.

Sockets and switches "Schneider-Electric" collection Unica TOP - the energy of modernity


The collection was created for true connoisseurs of beauty. Natural wood and metal, heat and cold. Products are suitable for both classic style and hi-tech.

Rating of sockets and switches of the middle price category

It is quite difficult to choose a leader in electrical products in the budget price segment. Many manufacturers produce products in the middle price category. Here the choice should be made based on the design and color design models. You can dilute the interior with non-standard round switches and sockets. For a moderate cost, you get a unique performance.

It is important to bear in mind that the brand line may not have the necessary version of the frame or filling of the device.

Surface-mounted socket "Makel" Siva


Additionally, grounding. Can be used, cottages or, if the wiring in the apartment has changed, after repair work

Vico switch Karre


Two keys on the body can control multiple light sources. For this model, you should purchase a frame for 1 nest. The frames of this collection can be bought for 2-6 nests.

Sockets and switches "ABB": collection BUSCH JAEGER LEVIT


Colorful design will enliven even the most puritanical interior. The coating consists of two layers, the visual sense of the movement of the design.

Sockets and switches: the best brands of 2017-2018

Products on the domestic market different manufacturers in a wide price range. There are designer sockets and switches that are produced on an individual order only in a minimum quantity. The cost of such products will be significantly higher than the average level. In addition, production and delivery may take a long time.

If you choose from a wide well-known manufacturers and judged by consumer reviews on well-known Internet sites, the distribution can be made as follows.

Manufacturer "Schneider Electric" - only premium class

The world leader in the production of electrical products has been in the lead for many years. The benchmark for quality and value. Products are always distinguished by simple installation and comfortable operation.

Manufacturer "Legrand" - variability of models

The top leaders included the products of this manufacturer, as the highest quality. One of the few, Legrand supports a broad pricing policy. A feature of the products is the release additional elements, with the help of which the life of the fittings is extended.

Manufacturer "Vico" - a national brand

A manufacturer from Turkey since 1990 has been gaining the authority of home craftsmen and professionals. A wide range of colors and a variety of shapes, affordable cost, quality, compliance with all safety requirements put the manufacturer in the top well-known leaders.

Producer "Bticino" - unique design

The manufacturer produces unique premium models, the cost of which reaches several thousand rubles per unit. The basic collection, designed for different wallets, is constantly maintained.

Manufacturer "Anam": sockets and switches of budgetary cost

Manufacturer of sockets and switches "Anam" of the middle price segment. Since the end of the last century, Legrand bought it, which significantly improved specifications products.


Unusual models of sockets and switches

Manufacturers constantly surprise consumers with their new products, offering non-standard solutions. In the trading network, such instances are not often found. If desired, you can order the product you like. We offer you to see what sockets are, you will see something of an unusual design for the first time.

A photo Description

built-in wifi router into the socket box. The color version is available in black, white and beige.

Models supplemented with a watt meter.

Built-in extension cord, the length of which reaches one and a half meters.

Socket-tee manufacturer Legrand. Cost from $30.

Safe sockets. To turn them on, you need to insert the plug and turn. It is recommended to install in houses with small children.

Socket with built-in switch.

Nutrition from solar energy. Installation is carried out on a window block.

Stash - imitation of a socket

Art products in the form of a mouse house, locker. Fantasies of designers in ideas from cartoon series in this decision are limitless.

Installation of sockets and switches - highlights

It is not recommended to independently connect sockets and switches without basic information. At first glance, this is a rather simple process, but it requires primary knowledge of electrophysics.

Peculiarities pre-training installation of products during repair.

  • In solid wall surfaces made of concrete or brick, it is necessary to prepare mounting holes with a diameter of not more than 50 mm using a perforator or drill with an impact mode;
  • then it follows from the shield or from the place of transfer to the place where the box is fixed to lay a strobe. The strobe is performed only at a right angle along a line parallel or perpendicular to the floor;
  • then the cable is laid in the strobe, after which it should be fixed with alabaster. For switches, a cable with a cross section of 1.5 squares is suitable, for sockets - 2.5;
  • for connecting wires different material(aluminum with copper) should be used. From the usual twisting of the wires, they can oxidize, which will become an obstacle to the passage of current;
  • before installing the socket, it is necessary to fix the socket box in the mounting hole with the help of alabaster. Alabaster should fill all the voids.

These are the main preparatory work before installing sockets and switches. Some time must pass for the alabaster to completely solidify.


Article

Sockets and switches should be easy to use and look harmonious in the interior. Prostocomfort will tell you how to choose them correctly.

Thanks to the new materials that are used in the manufacture of electrical accessories, today they have become independent elements of the interior, which are selected not only for operational and technical characteristics, but also for external signs.

A series of electrical accessories white color, made of plastic, modern style. Source: VIKO product catalog.

Modern sockets, switches and other electrical accessories are designed according to the modular principle. Various series of electrical fittings and their decorative elements can be changed without dismantling the mechanisms from building structures.

Source: MAKEL product catalog.

Modular socket design:

  1. Decorative panel;
  2. Color insert;
  3. Decorative frame;
  4. Mounting panel;
  5. mounting hole;
  6. Mechanism.

Wiring products created in the same style are combined into a series. Products of the same series are similar to each other in the form of decorative elements, color and material from which they are made.

Three styles dominate in the design of modern electrical accessories:

  • classic: decorative frames and panels are made in the form of a circle or a rectangle containing curly decorations; instead of a key, a rotary mechanism is often used in switches;

Series of sockets and switches Merten in classical style source http://ias.kiev.ua

The laid on switch in classical style. Source: ias.kiev.ua.

  • modern: decorative frame, panel and switch key have the shape of a square (rectangle), often with rounded corners;

Art Nouveau style switch with decorative elements made of wood. Source: Gunsan product catalog.

  • high-tech: technocratic look.

Block of sockets in hi-tech style. Source: Makel product catalog.

As materials for the manufacture of decorative elements of electrical accessories can be used:

  • plastic (usually ABS plastic), the most accessible and most common material;
  • metal (primarily aluminum) or metallized plastic;

Art Nouveau style switch with decorative frame in painted aluminium. Source: ias.kiev.ua.

  • glass (hot, impact-resistant) frosted or colored opaque;

Modern style switches with decorative frames made of frosted and colored glass. Source: Makel product catalog.

  • natural or artificial stones;

Art Nouveau style switches with decorative frames made of natural stone. Source: Makel product catalog.

  • valuable wood treated to increase fire resistance;

Art Nouveau style light switch adorned with a decorative pine wood frame. Source: ias.kiev.ua.

  • Genuine Leather.

Switch, decorative frame made of genuine leather source http://ias.kiev.ua

A wide variety of materials used allows you to choose sockets and switches for any style (from empire and retro to modern fusion and techno).

Decorative frames of electrical fittings can have multi-colored removable elements (inserts, corners, etc.), which help to match products to match the interior. There are series in which decorative elements depicted drawings or photographs. Most often, these are sockets and switches designed for children's rooms.

Switches in modern style with the image of popular cartoon characters. Source: Mutlusan electric product catalog

In order for sockets and switches to harmoniously fit into the interior, we recommend using the following rules.

1. When choosing the color of electrical accessories, consider:

  • white color and its shades are in harmony in combination with any color;
  • black is very pretentious and requires a very accurate selection of colors in the interior, but it always goes well with white;
  • for all other colors it is best to choose harmonious combinations according to one of existing systems used by designers and artists, for example, on the twelve-part color wheel Itten;
  • an intuitive approach to choosing the color of electrical accessories on a “like it, don’t like it” basis is also quite acceptable if you do it for yourself.

2. The style of electrical fittings completely depends on the style of the premises, therefore:

  • the classic style of sockets and switches impresses with arched openings, vaulted ceilings and classic furniture;
  • Art Nouveau sockets and switches are suitable for rectangular rooms with an interior dominated by modern furniture, devoid of ornate shapes and decorations;
  • high-tech style in electrical fittings is acceptable, exclusively, in a "high-tech" interior;

Hi-tech electrical fittings in a high-tech interior.

Electrical accessories, which are always in sight, at arm's length - sockets and switches. Therefore, it should be in harmony with the style decision of the room, without attracting undue attention to itself. Ideally, such elements are as functional, useful and logical as possible, while giving the space a finished appearance, showing its character and individuality.

Looking for something special for your interior? We have prepared a detailed (and, we hope, useful) review for those who do not agree with just "white, so as not to get bored" sockets and switches.

In the world of electrical installation products, there are also fashion trends. Of course, if we are talking about the products of European manufacturers, offering customers not only reliability and safety, but also design developments.

Main trends of 2017:

  • laconic style and simplicity of lines;
  • maximum ergonomics and ease of use;
  • variability of color palette and textures;
  • a combination of naturalistic and industrial styles;
  • modularity and versatility.

We are offered more and more options and freedom: a mix of several frames in one module, playing with textures, lighting, using additional features. So, for example, sockets are often bought together with plugs, decorative and protective covers that can be locked with a key.

One series, two designs. Allure and Life by Legrand Valena

Speaking about the debut of 2017, one cannot ignore two design lines of wiring accessories from Legrand within the Valena series: Allure and Life. Florent Glenisson, a designer of bright novelties, was guided by the thought: "The aesthetic preferences of people are endless - from the most expressive style to exceptional modesty."

As a result, each line has a pronounced visual specificity and is presented in different color and texture solutions.

Legrand Valena in Life design

“Life takes on a taste” is the slogan of the Life design concept. Here are examples of appearance which the epithets “expressive, rational, concise” are most suitable.

The square-in-square design looks harmonious in any modern interior. The switches are gracefully curved to actuate with the slightest touch. An interesting design nuance is that the frame seems to float above the wall surface.

A large collection of frames for rosettes: from the usual light colors (white, ivory, pearls) to bright colors (lime, terracotta, azure, ornaments) and expressive textures of metal and wood.

Legrand's innovative Allure design

This is a truly new vision of the design of electrical fittings, a bold and beautiful rejection of classic forms. Will appeal to innovators, people open to experimentation, but appreciating comfort in everyday little things. Line slogan: "feelings take shape." And this form is devoid of straightness and sharp corners- curved lines of sockets and switches are very delicate. The edges of the frames are pointed, which enhances the feeling of lightness.

The palette of shades presents a variety of light variations: white, mirror, ivory, pearl and beige, with and without embossing. You can also experiment with fantasy ornaments or modern textures: natural wood, leather, solid glass, carbon, matte and mirror surfaces.

German premium quality bestsellers

In the segment of designer wiring products, there are lines that have not lost their relevance for several seasons. For uncompromising workmanship and versatility, truly stylish solutions note the Berker series from Hager and Unica from Schneider Electric. Both manufacturers are German headliners in the electrical installation industry.

Premium design and quality: Berker by Hager

Not only electrical engineers, but also leading experts in the field of design are working on the development of a series of sockets and switches of the German brand. And very successfully. The brand has received awards from prestigious design competitions: the iF gold award, the Good Design Award from the Chicago Athenaeum, the German Design Award from the German Design Council, the iF Label in the Product Design category, the Red Dot Design Award.

The Berker S.1 series has become a landmark, transforming modern tendencies classic design. Modular usage concept, ergonomic design, laconic square shape. It's simple, functional and relevant forever.

Popular with followers of the unusual style decisions and bright colors series B.3: a varied palette of frames (available in red, brown, black and gold anodized aluminium) allows you to create perfect personalized combinations.

The original and tactile plastic texture with velvet effect is available in Anthracite or Polar White in the Q1/Q3 series.

Fans of retro style will fall in love with the elegant Berker Serie R.classic range from the German manufacturer, featuring round rotary switches. And the elegant products of the Serie 1930 Porzellan version are made of German Rosenthal porcelain, in white or black.

Step by Step: Style Hierarchy by Schneider Electric

With truly German scrupulousness, he distributed the popular series of frames for Unica electrical accessories into several lines with a gradual increase in the degree of “coolness” of products in design and functionality.

Unica Basic: A simple functional aesthetic with white or ivory mechanisms.

Unica Colors. Here you can already show your individuality: it includes frames in 20 different colors, mechanisms also in white or ivory.

Unica Quadro: modern concise design calm shapes and lines, frames in 14 colors. Among them are various metallic shades and the most delicate options like pearl pink or delicate gray-pearl. Mechanisms in white or ivory.

Unica Plus: electrical fittings high class exquisite style. 18 frame visuals ranging from white, ivory and sandy to vibrant shades of apple green, pomegranate and orange. Execution on 2, 3 and 4 modules.

Unica Top: "supermodels" from Schneider Electric. A wide range of mechanisms in aluminum and graphite options, frames in various types of wood (4 shades) and metals (10 options). Execution on 2, 3 and 4 modules.