All About Switch Plates

Make your switch a hit

Form follows function

The real beauty of switch plates is their functionality. They have three main functions that are essential. They protect the wall covering from the abuse they would sustain from repeated use. They insulate you and your guests from being shocked. Think how many times you have uneventfully switched on or off a wall switch without being shocked. Lastly, they are an ornament that you can use as a contrast to design elements, like color and texture, of a room.

Where do I start?

Artisans, using as inspiration everything from traditional architecture to illustration, have made good-looking switch plates. There is no limit on color, shape or size when it comes to matching the appropriate switch plate cover to a room.

The possibilities for unique switch plates are endless. Indeed, you may want a ceramic Victorian rose light switch plate as a way of accenting a rustic or shabby chic design. Or, if you're going for a dramatic look in a dining or living area, how about oil rubbed bronze switch plates? A favorite with car enthusiasts are stainless steel diamondplate switch plates that match some of the top-end garage organizers.

Kids switch plates with illustrations from the Curious George and Dr Seuss book series are very popular. It is surprising the effect a small touch like a Cat In The Hat switch plate can have on the look of a playroom or bedroom. They can also be purchased with outlet covers.

Advanced placement

Architects, artists and forward-thinking industrial designers have done quite a bit to expand the choices homeowners have in terms of light switch plate design. Materials such as steel, plastic, ceramic and even wood switch plates are manufactured to fit a myriad of decorator's needs.

As an example of how much choice there is in regard to switch plates, we can look at the variety of ceramic switch plates that can be custom made by smaller manufacturers. Styles as unique as Southwestern switch plates emulate the look of artists such as Edward Weston. Ceramic switch plates are also available that are made by the same age-old processes as Italian terrazzo tiles. Other ceramic wall plates include contemporary colors and shapes that are unique to each artist that creates them.

More information on switch plates