The Arts and Crafts movement, based on the writings of John Ruskin and William Morris, was more a way of thinking and making than a style. It flourished between 1880 and 1920 and was a reaction against mass-produced factory goods. The revival of handicrafts produced metalwork which emphasised the toolmarks and how it was constructed. Favourite motifs included hearts, fish, flowers, fruit, birds, galleons. W. A. S. Benson designed light-fittings for Morris & Co., made at his workshop in Hammersmith, and also had his own shop in Bond Street.

A term adopted about 1900 to describe chandeliers specifically made for electricity. The very first electricity supply systems were from 1882. Important country houses had their own generators installed, such as Chatsworth House in 1895. Electricity became more commonly used in middle class homes from 1900.