What Are Vimar Plana Light Switches and What Are They Used For?
If we were to compare the Vimar Plana designer light switches range to an era, it will definitely be the 1980s.
Of all the Vimar luxury light switch ranges, the Plana series may be the most fun and colourful light switches you can add to complement your home’s character. But beyond their vibrant colours, Plana was designed around the principles of flexibility, novelty, durability, and practicality while still being far more superior than your typical hardware DIY light switches.
This article will provide you everything you need to know about the Plana light switches to help you decide if they are what you are looking for. Let’s go!
What are Plana Light Switches?
Plana is a series of designer light switch cover plates developed, designed, and manufactured by the Italian manufacturer of electrical systems, smart home automation, and wiring solutions, Vimar.
Vimar manufactures its products in its facility in North-East Italy and has been around since 1945 with products available in over 100 countries.
What Makes Plana Cover Plates Different from DIY Light Switches from Hardware Stores?
Plana light switch cover plates are modular and ergonomic, which means that they are easy to install and match as they can accommodate various interior design and installation requirements.
Plana face plates offer a wider variety of options, made from durable materials across metal, natural wood and plastic ranges. The metal collection features hard-wearing rust-resistant aluminium, the wood range is available in natural maple, pear or cherry wood, and the plastic range is made from technopolymer.
Technopolymer is a high-performance engineering plastic that can withstand extreme stress, heat, and chemicals while providing a lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant alternative to metals and alloys.
Plana light switches are practical for everyday use with their easy-to-clean materials that make them suitable for busy residential and commercial spaces like hotels, hospitals, offices, and schools.
What Finishes and Materials Are Available in the Plana Range?
Plana has four available materials and finishes called Reflex, Metal, Natural Wood and Technopolymer.
The Reflex series features a technopolymer base with a glossy finish and is available in 12 lively colours. This selection features icy, fresh and distinctive frosted effects that cater to themed spaces or personality-driven interiors. Plana Reflex light switch plates include fuller shades such as ruby, emerald, tobacco and sapphire, as well as more delicate tones such as mint, snow, water and amber.
For those seeking a more subtle look, the Metal series, which comes in seven different shades of either metallic or pearl finishes are most suitable. Since this range is made of aluminium, the face plates emit neutral shades that allow them to blend seamlessly with any modern interior design elements.
If you are after a rustic ambience, it would be hard to beat the Plana Natural Wood collection. Each Plana wood light switch boasts natural and unique grain patterns of maple, pear and cherry wood, that add warmth and an organic touch to any interior.
Meanwhile, the Technopolymer series features a versatile palette of 15 neutral, metallic and warm-toned colours, ranging from classic white, ivory and cream to sophisticated matt silver, champagne, gold and nickel. Darker options are also available in glossy black, fir, ash and makoré for more depth, as well as iridescent brown for a unique multi-tonal effect.
The white technopolymer faceplate is also available in the antibacterial version for clinics, aged care homes, research labs, and other healthcare facilities.
What are the Mounting Options for the Plana Light Switches?
Plana supports three mounting / installation options: flush-mounted installation (recessed), surface-mounted installation, and wireless installation.
Flush-mounted installation is the standard, most common installation method used for Australian homes and commercial spaces.
Surface-mounted installation, on the other hand, are typically done for installations where recessed mounting is not possible or challenging, such as in outdoor areas or buildings with concrete walls. For outdoor areas, Designer Light Switches can source Vimar IP40 and IP55 surface mounting boxes (1–16 modules), which can be installed horizontally or vertically for garages, cellars, porches, gardens, and other exposed areas. These can be particularly useful for outdoor recreation, events and entertainment areas of luxury resorts and high-end hotels.
For buildings with architectural limitations, wireless installation is the best option. Plana’s wireless switches and controls, featuring EnOcean, Bluetooth, and Zigbee radio technologies, make it possible to install them in areas with limited space or on glass and timber walls.
If you would like to learn more about mounting and installation light switches, you can read our previous article here.
Are Plana Light Switches Suitable for Dimming and Smart Home Automation Features?
Yes, Plana light switches are suitable for both dimming and smart home automation features. It supports light intensity control and integrates with smart home systems via the Vimar View Wireless system and By-me home automation platform.
The Plana range uses Bluetooth and Zigbee technologies to enable connected control of many automation features including roller shutters, curtains, security, and energy management.
Users can operate Plana devices through traditional switches, a mobile app, or voice control, with the ability to upgrade existing installations into a fully connected smart system without changing the overall design aesthetic.
Designer Light Switches Australia can walk you through the technologies and mechanisms we can incorporate with your face plates. If you are after a certain feature, contact our team at hello@designer-light-switches.com.au so we can recommend options for your project.
What Kind of Architectural Styles does the Plana Light Switch Range Complement?
The Plana light switch range is designed to complement a wide variety of architectural styles, with a strong focus on modern and contemporary interiors in residential and commercial settings.
Plana’s wide colour and finish range allows it to adapt well to industrial and minimalist design schemes, as well as more transitional interiors that blend modern and traditional elements.
What Homeowner Personality does the Plana Light Switches Suit?
Okay, just for the fun of it, let’s try to profile who the Plana light switches suit.
Plana light switches are best suited to homeowners who value a modern and functional design aiming for a clean, minimalist look. They are also ideal for practical, meticulous homeowners who want reliable performance without a high price tag.
So, is Plana for you? If so, contact our team at hello@designer-light-switches.com.au for more information or if you need technical assistance for your next project. If Plana does not quite fit the bill, we have other Vimar luxury designer faceplates waiting for you to discover. Visit our product page or send us an email for enquiries. Talk soon!
