Electrical switches and outlets

Original villas commonly had electrical fittings of ceramic and brass.

Original light switches and outlets consisted of a ceramic fitting with round brass, generally finished in antique bronze or, later, with a bakelite cover plate.

Generally, electrical installations:

  • had a single light outlet in the centre of the ceiling – wall lights were not common (Figure 1)
  • provided switching to bedroom lights often by pull cord mounted on the ceiling
  • had single power points with circular ceramic fittings, unswitched in each room
  • had power points mounted at approximately 4’ (1200 mm).

Depending on when electricity was installed within the villa, there may be electrical fittings such as bakelite and recessed mounting boxes that relate to a later period.