One of the hottest new trends in interior lighting involves being able to actually see most, if not all, of the bulb or bulbs providing the illumination. Fixtures with partially or fully exposed bulbs are everywhere, especially in Europe, but the trend is coming stateside as well.

Some are inspired by the birth of the incandescent light bulb (there’s even a collection named for Menlo Park, where Thomas Edison once patented more than 1,000 items—including, of course, the light bulb), especially in light of the fact that it is fast being replaced by fluorescent and LED cousins. However, the bulbs used in these fixtures are often low-wattage and exempt from any restrictions on incandescent varieties. Some of these bulbs even use special chrome filaments to match the chrome of the fixture. (That being said, please take note: sometimes the bulbs do not come with the fixtures!)

Other exposed bulb fixtures take design cues from industrial spaces and places, fitting in well in contemporary and modern rooms. There’s even a variety of mini chandelier where the bulb is more easily visible than normal.

These lamps may require a little more care in your house so as not to break the bulb or bulbs, but the unique look is very well worth it.

Here’s a rundown of exposed bulb items, all available from Lights Online.