Previously this has not been possible. To comply with IP44 standards specifiers and designers have either had to use enclosed glass globes or tubes to achieve suitable water protection, or they have had to use low voltage light fittings (connected to a concealed transformer) which are invariably contemporary in style and cannot carry a traditional shade.

The big advantage of lampshades is that they can engender an attractive, warm, atmosphere rather than the somewhat clinical ambience created by glass tubes.

The other advantage of Vaughan’s new IP44 rated fittings is that they do not require major re-wiring of the bathroom – they simply use existing mains voltage.

This has been achieved by a design breakthrough, developed by Vaughan, in the water-proofing of the bulb-holder and other electrical connections. Effectively the ‘covered fitting’ is the bulb itself. This enables all the Vaughan products to comply with IP44 standards and yet retain the advantages of traditional fittings with shades.

Initially, we are launching five different products, but our aim is to extend the collection significantly over the coming year, so as to provide a wide choice of traditional, art deco and contemporary designs.