How to choose sockets and switches using the example of the Inspiria series from the French brand Legrand?

We touch them several times a day. They are constantly in our sight. But many still consider them a trifle.

In fact, the choice of sockets and switches is not such a trivial task, because this is a sign of a well-planned interior as a whole. For interior design, this is the same as shoes for a fashionable look - a detail that always attracts attention. Therefore, it is so important that the products are pleasant to the touch, aesthetic, stylish - and necessarily safe (after all, we are talking about an electrician). Let's talk about what to look for when buying.

Materials (edit)

We do not recommend choosing ceramic devices: they are fragile and can cause a short circuit. Sockets and switches with a base made of modern heat-resistant materials will do their job much better.

The frames and bezels of the new Inspiria series from the French brand Legrand are made of ABS plastic. It looks good and is resistant to ultraviolet radiation, which means it does not fade under the sun's rays. The mechanisms and calipers of this collection are made of polycarbonate - a durable and durable material that is safe to install and use.

Safe, reliable and easy to install

When choosing outlets and switches, do not forget about safety rules.

• Use moisture-proof devices in the bathroom and kitchen. Some people avoid outlets and switches in wet areas the old fashioned way. But in vain: such devices are perfectly protected from water ingress. So you can safely use a hairdryer in the bathroom!

• If there are children in the house, purchase outlets with curtains - these can be found in the Inspiria series.
• There should be enough outlets in your home to avoid extension cords. The latter not only spoil the appearance of the interior and get in the way, but are also less safe.

For an ordinary electrician to easily cope with the installation, choose modern, easy-to-assemble devices. Inspiria outlets and switches are quick and easy to install, and you can replace the frame yourself with latches instead of screws.

Completeness of the line

Usually, an interior designer strives for uniformity in all wiring products (unless he has some very specific goal). Therefore, it is important that one collection contains all the necessary devices.

Sometimes the buyer buys sockets and switches, but completely forgets, for example, about thermostats for underfloor heating or telephone sockets. Returns to the store - and does not find the desired product from the same collection. What to do? It remains only to select devices from another series or even another manufacturer. This spoils the appearance of the interior. Therefore, make sure in advance that the line has everything you need:

• switches with a different number of keys,
• single and double sockets,
• dimmers,
• sockets with connectors for chargers,
• computer and telephone sockets,
• TV sockets,
• thermostats for warm floors.

The Inspiria collection includes 136 movement references, so you will find all the gadgets you need.

Colour

Have you noticed that sockets are rarely seen in magazines in photographs of apartments? They often try to hide them so as not to distract attention from the main "characters" of the interior - spectacular furniture, bright finishes or interesting decor. If this approach is your thing, choose a piece to match the walls... and watch guests search for a power outlet, hoping to recharge their phone. Yes, the devices will not be completely invisible (otherwise you would have simply lost them). But they will harmoniously merge with the environment and will not be conspicuous.

An option for the most daring is to go from the opposite direction. Choose an accent series that will stand out and support other vibrant elements in the room. Acid colors are not necessary at all, it is worth looking at the more calm ones. After all, the average lifespan of a renovation is 10-15 years: you hardly want to contemplate the fluorescent yellow square on the wall for so long.

In the Inspiria collection you will find a variety of shades - from neutral (white, ivory, pearl) to more original (mint, pink, champagne, anthracite black, bronze, smoky, aluminum). At the same time, it is far from always worth choosing a decorative frame to match the mechanism. The line includes four shades of the central element and ten shades of frames. You can combine them to your liking by developing your own unique combination.

Details

"Minor" little things can make life a lot easier. A good example is the LED-backlit switches that you sometimes use at night. In order not to feel the wall in the dark, choose a backlit model for the bathroom and corridor. Among other benefits, this will also prolong the life of the wall coverings: the wallpaper and paint around the switches quickly get dirty and greasy if you have to touch the wall at random. The Inspiria line includes models with an economical soft white backlight.

Pay attention to the shape of the products: how much does it correspond to the style of your interior? Note that overhead protruding sockets and switches are less convenient than built-in ones. Plus, they rarely look good (unless it's a vintage style with exposed electrics). From loft to classic, Inspiria built-in appliances blend clean lines and rounded shapes to match.

Remember that the point is in the details, and take your choice seriously so that the devices serve for a long time and look harmonious!