Once overlooked as purely practical items, wiring accessories are now stepping into the spotlight as an important part of interior design. Katie Plumstead, Group Marketing Manager with Scolmore Group, looks at the growing importance of aesthetics for this product category.
For decades, wiring accessories such as switches, sockets, and outlets were seen purely as functional products - devices that simply needed to work reliably and safely. Today, however, the landscape is shifting. Increasingly, end users, designers, and electrical contractors are recognising that these everyday essentials are not just about performance, but also about appearance, feel, and how they integrate into the overall design of a space.
From utility to design feature
The traditional white plastic switch may still dominate the market in volume – Click Scolmore’s Mode range of white moulded wiring accessories remains the company’s best-selling range - but demand for stylish alternatives has grown rapidly. Interior designers, architects and homeowners now view wiring accessories as an integral part of the overall interior design scheme. Matte finishes, metallic tones, and screwless faceplates are trending as homeowners look for premium finishes that complement modern interiors.
Balancing aesthetics with performance
The shift is being driven not only by designers but also by a new generation of consumers who are highly attuned to detail. In an era when social media showcases every corner of a home, people are more aware of the small touches that elevate interior spaces. Wiring accessories, once ignored, now play a role in creating a premium, polished environment.
While appearance is becoming increasingly important, performance remains paramount. Installers must continue to ensure compliance with safety standards, ease of installation, and reliability. The most successful products are those that deliver both - combining modern aesthetics with robust engineering.
A touch of bronze
Click Scolmore continually innovates its wiring accessories ranges to reflect current trends. Last year the company introduced a new sleek Matt Bronze finish to its Definity Complete range of screwless, push-fit face plates. This finish offers a contemporary, stylish option that seamlessly blends with modern interiors while maintaining the high-quality performance the Click Scolmore brand is known for.
Following the success of the Matt Bronze Definity Complete range, the finish has been extended to its popular Deco Plus and Deco ranges. Deco Plus is Click’s premium curved profile decorative wiring accessory range, while Deco offers a high-quality square profile alternative. The new Matt Bronze finish, available with black inserts, enhances the Deco Plus and Deco’s timeless appeal, ideal for both residential and commercial settings. The introduction of Matt Bronze is a reflection of the growing demand for elegant, design-led electrical accessories. Available across a wide selection of switches, sockets, and accessories, the Deco Plus and Deco ranges in Matt Bronze offer a versatile solution for designers, contractors, and homeowners looking to elevate their interiors.
Power in black
Matt Black wiring accessories continue to be a popular choice, with designers and homeowners alike opting for this bold, understated finish, proving that functionality and style can coexist seamlessly. Traditionally, wiring accessories such as switches, sockets, and plates were limited to standard colours such as white, beige, or metallic finishes. Adding a contemporary, sophisticated edge to any space, the matt black finish not only complements modern interior trends but also offers practical benefits, including reduced visibility of fingerprints and smudges.
Introduced to the Deco and Deco Plus ranges in 2023, the matt black finish has recently been extended to the New Media modules range. Designed to complement modern interiors, the matt texture offers a sleek, low-sheen appearance that blends effortlessly into contemporary environments – perfect for applications where elegance and performance are essential. The matt black finish is now available across a comprehensive selection of New Media modules.
Powering style and technology
As wiring accessories have evolved from purely functional items to design-led features, the next frontier is integrating smart, future-ready technology without compromising aesthetics. Click Scolmore’s latest innovation – the 13A 1 and 2 Gang Safety Shutter Socket Outlets featuring twin USB Type-C Power Delivery (PD) ports – exemplifies this approach. These sockets combine cutting-edge fast-charging capability with the same high-quality finishes and design-led philosophy seen across Click Scolmore’s Deco, Deco Plus, and Definity ranges.
By incorporating USB-C PD, the new outlets address the growing demand for connected, technology-driven spaces. Users can charge smartphones, tablets, and laptops quickly and safely, while designers and homeowners benefit from a sleek, integrated look that complements any interior. Investing in these modern sockets ensures a future-proof solution for the devices of today – and tomorrow – without sacrificing elegance, functionality, or safety.
Benefits of USB-C Power Delivery
USB Power Delivery (PD) is an advanced, fast charging technology supporting a wide range of devices. It can charge smartphones and tablets up to 70% faster than a standard 5W USB charger. With universal adoption of USB-C PD, users can connect multiple devices without compatibility concerns.
Key features include:
• PD20W – fast charging 20W USB Power Delivery.
• 3A independent charging per port
• 4.2A shared output – intelligent chip adjusts output to connected devices.
• Twin type C ports – ideal for multiple devices.
• Three pin safety shutters – enhanced protection
• Easy retro fit – replaces standard or USB sockets without the need for a deeper back box.
The new Twin Type C USB Sockets are available across Click Scolmore’s extensive portfolio, including Deco, Deco Plus, Define, Definity, Mode, Part M, Polar, Metal Clad, and Metal Clad Pro, providing a consistent solution for every installation style and environment.
Design meets performance
The evolution of wiring accessories demonstrates that function and style are no longer mutually exclusive. From sophisticated matt black and bronze finishes to the latest USB-C fast charging technology, modern wiring accessories combine performance, safety, and design in a single solution.
For homeowners and designers, these products elevate interiors, create a polished, connected environment, and future-proof spaces for the devices of today – and tomorrow. For contractors and wholesalers, they offer tangible benefits as well: simplified installation, universal compatibility, and a product range that meets the growing demand for stylish, high-performance solutions.