Dovetail Brewery’s new hand-hammered copper taproom lighting fixtures pay homage to brewing history

City Lights Brewing Co. in Milwaukee stands out among the city's burgeoning brewery scene, not just for its beer, but primarily for its architectural heritage. The brewery is housed within two buildings, with potential for a third, designed by the renowned architect Alexander Eschweiler. These Chicago red brick structures, located at 2200 W. Mount Vernon Ave. in the Menomonee Valley, were originally constructed in 1902 for the Milwaukee Gas Light Co., serving as the power company's west side plant. The complex includes a distinctive six-story octagonal tower, a familiar landmark to many Milwaukee residents. While one building currently hosts the Milwaukee Four Seasons Skatepark, the largest structure is home to Zimmerman Architectural Studios. The article details a visit to the brewery prior to its completion in 2016, guided by co-owner Jimmy Gohsman, offering a glimpse into the restoration and repurposing efforts. The Romanesque Revival plant was initially used for converting coal to natural gas for residential and industrial distribution. Decades later, Eschweiler was commissioned again by the company, then renamed Wisconsin Gas Co. in 1966 and eventually becoming part of We Energies, to design its Art Deco headquarters downtown. According to We Energies' Cathy Schulze, the plant operated through the 1930s, subsequently serving as a natural gas storage facility until its decommissioning in 1959. The former condensing building, situated to the north, is planned to accommodate City Lights' packaging operations and a small laboratory. This building will be connected to the tower building via a second-story skywalk, leading to a mezzanine overlooking the brewing area. This mezzanine will feature a tasting room with a patio downstairs, offering views of the Menomonee River, and an upper deck. During the 2016 visit, plans for the tower's five floors were on hold due to significant costs associated with constructing a fire escape, replacing existing staircases, and installing an elevator. Each floor of the tower is structurally similar, with the exception of the top floor, which boasts a unique wood plank octagonal ceiling. Several floors also feature double-door openings. Gohsman shared an anecdote from former tenants, suggesting that the structural steel supporting the roof originated from Carnegie’s mills, with one beam reportedly signed by Andrew Carnegie himself. The glazed subway tile throughout the building is believed to be from Tiffany, although efforts to locate a signature stamp were unsuccessful. While the tile is to be preserved, other elements required modification to meet current building codes. An old staircase with wood treads and brass rails had to be replaced, and a functional chain hoist, though permitted to remain, had its dangling chain removed due to safety regulations. The mezzanine was retained, but its railing required adjustments. Many bricked-up windows were slated for reopening, and some existing windows were to be converted into doors to provide access to the patio, deck, and skywalk. The article underscores the architectural beauty and historical significance of the renovated brewery space, presenting a series of photographs taken during the early stages of the project to illustrate these features. #BrewerySpelunking #CityLightsBrewing #AlexanderEschweiler #MilwaukeeArchitecture #MenomoneeValley #HistoricalBuildings #AdaptiveReuse #IndustrialHeritage #UrbanExploration

Copper, often considered an underrated metal, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with celebrities like Ashley Benson and Olivia Rodrigo incorporating it into their home decor. This trend highlights copper's ability to introduce warmth and coziness into living spaces through various accent pieces, lighting, and statement items. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, copper holds symbolic significance, representing warmth, energy, luck, and good fortune, partly due to its excellent heat-conducting properties, which also make it a popular material for cookware. For individuals looking to integrate this distinctive hue into their homes, particularly for the autumn season, several carefully selected copper home decor items are available. These include a meticulously engraved Tamra Eden Copper Water Bottle from Free People, priced at $56, which stands out among more basic copper bottle designs. Another option is the Spadina Metal Table Lamp from Wayfair, currently reduced to $63.99 from $155. This lamp features a modern, minimalist design with a copper-hued tapered silhouette base that effectively adds warmth to any room. Additionally, hexagonal stainless steel trays with a copper-plated finish are available from Target for $59.99, offering a subtle yet impactful way to introduce copper accents. For a rustic country kitchen aesthetic, a set of Old Dutch Solid Copper Stone Hammered Bowls, available on Amazon for $79.95 (originally $180.99), can serve both functional and decorative purposes. Moscow Mule mugs from Yooreka Gift Set, priced at $38.97 on Amazon, provide a stylish alternative to traditional glassware for beverages. Finally, a high-end Cuisine Romefort Copper Pan, retailing for $158 on Amazon, is presented as a durable and stylish investment piece, similar to those seen in celebrity kitchens. These selections demonstrate the versatility of copper in home decor, ranging from practical kitchenware to decorative accessories, all contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. #CopperDecor #HomeInteriors #CelebrityHomes #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeAccessories #Kitchenware #AccentLighting #AutumnDecor

The article explores the top 10 lighting trends predicted to shape interior design in 2025, emphasizing a blend of style, sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. These trends offer diverse options for illuminating spaces, catering to various tastes and design philosophies. Vintage-style lighting is set to be a major trend, valued for its timeless character, craftsmanship, and inherent sustainability. This approach incorporates classic pieces such as ornate chandeliers, retro pendants, and mid-century modern table lamps, all designed for longevity and to infuse spaces with a sense of history and individuality. Experts note that vintage lighting acts as both a functional item and an artistic focal point, rooted in traditional values of quality and originality, aligning with the growing preference for eclectic design. Smoked glass emerges as another significant trend, offering versatility and visual impact through its large-scale pendant lighting and statement pieces. The grey tint of smoked glass provides a soft, diffused light, contributing a touch of glamour and moody elegance to interiors. Its timeless appeal is highlighted as a wise, long-term investment for any home, ensuring it remains stylish without succumbing to fleeting fads. Biophilic lighting, a trend centered on reconnecting indoor spaces with nature, aims to reduce stress and enhance wellbeing. This style integrates organic shapes and natural tones, utilizing materials like rattan, wood, bamboo, and recycled glass to introduce warmth and texture. The goal is to create harmonious, calming, and restorative environments by mirroring natural light and incorporating natural elements, making it suitable for all areas, particularly home offices. Copper makes a comeback in 2025 as the preferred metal for lighting design due to its warm, rich, and inviting qualities. Its adaptability allows it to complement both bold and neutral color palettes, adding a sense of coziness and luxury. Copper’s durability also supports the shift towards more sustainable design practices, appearing in various forms from floor lamps to ceiling fixtures and even smaller accents like plug sockets. Mixed metals represent a modern twist, encouraging the combination of different metallic finishes such as brass with nickel, or bronze with brushed chrome. This trend adds visual depth and flexibility to lighting schemes, with a noticeable increase in demand for bronze, silvered tones, and both brushed and polished chrome finishes. The layering of different metals creates a dynamic and sophisticated look. Layered lighting is presented as essential for creating flexible, mood-driven interiors. Moving beyond single ceiling pendants, this approach involves combining multiple light sources—table lamps, floor lamps, wall sconces, and dimmable overhead lighting—to transform a space’s atmosphere and functionality throughout the day. This technique is crucial for influencing both the aesthetic and the wellbeing of occupants. The 'soft industrial' aesthetic merges the raw, edgy elements of industrial design with a warm and inviting feel. This trend features exposed metals, matte finishes, and natural materials, but with gentler silhouettes and a sleek sophistication. It allows industrial lighting styles to integrate seamlessly into modern homes, balancing function and form without appearing overly harsh. Playful and artful lighting continues to be a strong trend, with vibrant-colored and patterned lampshades taking center stage. These lampshades are not merely functional but serve as artistic statements, allowing for the injection of personality into interiors. Changing lampshades seasonally is suggested as an affordable method to refresh a color scheme without extensive redecoration, positioning lighting as 'jewelry for the home'. Curved and wavy shapes are dominating lighting designs, offering a way to introduce softness and movement into angular interiors. This style, characterized by scalloped designs, waves, and fluid curves, aims for elegance, sophistication, and whimsy. It is ideal for creating cozy, intimate areas or standout focal points in various rooms, balancing the rigidity of modern spaces. Finally, the natural look emphasizes a growing demand for organic materials like rattan, bamboo, and reclaimed wood in lighting designs. This trend brings warmth, texture, and a contemporary feel, contributing to effortlessly inviting rooms. The lightweight nature of these materials allows for experimental layouts, and their eco-conscious appeal aligns with current mindful aesthetic preferences. #LightingTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #VintageLighting #SmokedGlass #BiophilicDesign #CopperAccents #MixedMetals #LayeredLighting #SoftIndustrial #PlayfulLighting #CurvedShapes #NaturalMaterials

When homeowners consider dining room decor, their focus often gravitates towards the dining table and chairs, frequently neglecting the significant impact of lighting fixtures. However, lighting is an indispensable element in shaping the overall ambiance and aesthetic of a dining room, transcending its basic functional role. The plethora of lighting options can make fixture selection a daunting task. Traditionally, chandeliers have been a popular choice for dining areas, ranging from whimsical bubble designs and modern sputnik chandeliers to those crafted from woven rattan. Currently, vintage-inspired chandeliers are experiencing a significant resurgence, driven by a growing trend to integrate eclectic decor into contemporary spaces. Specifically, designs that evoke the Art Deco movement, characterized by tinted glass and metallic accents like gold or brass, are expected to be particularly prominent. Louise Copeland, founder of L.B. Copeland Interior Design, highlights that vintage chandeliers offer design flexibility. She explains that incorporating lighting with historical character or a aged appearance allows for the introduction of newer dining furniture without creating a uniformly new or overly matched aesthetic. Copeland further notes that the chandelier does not necessarily need to be an authentic antique; a modern design featuring vintage elements can effectively impart an old-world charm. For 2026, chandelier styles popular in the 1920s are anticipated to be in high demand. This includes options such as champagne-colored crystal or glass chandeliers, as well as multi-tiered fixtures adorned with textured glass. Additionally, neo-classical design is projected to make a comeback, bringing grand, statement chandeliers into focus. These might include elegant candle-style gala chandeliers in gold or brass, which can serve as a striking centerpiece, particularly in settings with a rustic influence. For those seeking authentic antique chandeliers, local thrift stores and estate sales are excellent resources, especially for budget-conscious redecorators. Homeowners willing to invest more can explore luxury vintage marketplaces such as 1stDibs and Vinterior. Furthermore, online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, and eBay are recommended for discovering vintage lighting and other home decor items. #DiningRoomLighting #VintageDecor #ChandelierTrends #ArtDecoStyle #HomeDesignTrends #EclecticDecor #InteriorDesign #LightingFixtures #HomeImprovement

Allied Maker, a New York-based design and manufacturing studio founded in 2012, recently introduced four new lighting fixtures at the Architectural Digest Design Show. The studio is known for its minimalist designs that emphasize the inherent beauty of materials such as brass, glass, and hardwoods. The newly unveiled collection continues this aesthetic, incorporating both angular, structural lines, specifically triangles, and soft, curving circular forms into their latest creations. One of the new additions is the Tri Cone Pendant, a fixture that features a cone-shaped shade designed to direct a focused beam of light. This focused illumination is achieved with a glass disc, all contained within a tetrahedron-inspired structural frame. The design seamlessly blends geometric precision with functional lighting, creating a visually compelling piece that is both modern and elegant. Another significant launch is the Grand Aperture 4, an expanded version of Allied Maker's existing Aperture 4 chandelier. This larger chandelier is specifically engineered to make a substantial visual impact in spacious environments. It comprises four glass domes strategically placed to encircle four distinct light sources. This arrangement ensures a broad and even diffusion of light, making it suitable for grand living areas or commercial spaces where significant ambient lighting is desired, all while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic. The collection also includes the Contour Wall Lamp 22”. This wall-mounted fixture is characterized by its graceful, hand-bent arc, which extends to connect with a glass sphere. The design's functionality is enhanced by its ability to swivel against the wall, allowing for adjustable lighting direction and adaptability to various room configurations. The elegant curve and spherical element offer a blend of art and utility, providing both illumination and a sculptural presence. Completing the quartet of new fixtures is the Concentric 15”, a versatile piece designed for either wall or ceiling installation. This fixture stands out due to its handcrafted wooden dome, which features a series of concentric circles. These circles create a topographic effect, giving the fixture a unique textural and visual depth. The pleasing arrangement of the concentric rings adds a subtle yet striking decorative element to any space, reinforcing Allied Maker's commitment to thoughtful design and meticulous craftsmanship. These new offerings from Allied Maker reinforce their dedication to creating lighting solutions that are not only functional but also serve as artistic statements within a space. The combination of high-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and a keen eye for minimalist design ensures that these fixtures enhance the ambiance and aesthetic of contemporary interiors. #AlliedMaker #LightingFixtures #ArchitecturalDigestDesignShow #MinimalistDesign #BrassLighting #GlassDesign #Chandeliers #WallLamps #HomeFurnishings

The article highlights the significance of lighting in interior design, emphasizing its capacity to unify a room and establish ambiance, often overlooked in favor of larger furniture items. It showcases eight Hudson Valley-based businesses and artists specializing in diverse lighting solutions, aiming to provide local alternatives to urban design sources. These establishments offer a range of styles, from hand-blown glass pendants and modern-chic sconces to vintage fixtures and custom neon art. Niche Modern, located in Beacon, NY, is featured for its brightly colored, hand-blown glass pendant lighting. Founded by Jeremy Pyles and Mary Welch, the company is known for its contemporary yet deeply colored glass products, operating from a historic factory building and offering significant discounts at annual factory sales. The Culture+Commerce Project in Hudson, NY, a design consultancy, represents regional artists, including Rafael Avramovich of Work and Design. Avramovich creates "Living in Harmony" pendants using recycled metal strips of iron, steel, and brass, designing pieces that evoke emotion and blend organic-industrial aesthetics suitable for various settings. While their retail store has closed, they continue operations online and by appointment. Materia Designs, led by husband-and-wife team Matt Ensner and Megan Sommerville, integrates diverse backgrounds from choreography to landscape design into their work. They produce lighting, furniture, and home accessories, along with undertaking residential and commercial interior design projects. Their design philosophy focuses on elemental materials such as marble, parchment, porcelain, un-lacquered brass, and leather, resulting in authentic, high-quality pieces. Their operations, including a showroom, design studio, and workshop, are consolidated in a 4,500-square-foot facility in Accord. Luddite Antiques in Germantown, NY, caters to those seeking vintage lighting. This Brooklyn retail expat offers a wide array of early electric lighting, from Victorian chandeliers to Art Deco sconces and neon bar signs, alongside other antique furnishings like wooden card catalogs and 18th-century apothecary cabinets, all displayed in their tin-ceilinged showroom. Lite Brite Neon in Kingston, NY, began in 1999 as artist Matt Dilling’s studio, focusing on neon's decorative and architectural potential. It has since grown to include a team of neon artists creating everything from gallery pieces to commercial signage and restoration. The studio moved its production to a 15,000-square-foot facility in Kingston, where its 12-member fabrication team handles hundreds of projects annually, transforming client concepts into neon realities. FRG Objects & Design/Art in Hudson, NY, is founded by FR Gillette, a stylist, photographer, and interior designer. His 3,000-square-foot space serves as his home, office, and showroom, reflecting a curated aesthetic characterized by a disruptive approach to color and mixing fabrics and art. Gillette's work was showcased at Design Hudson 2018, and he recently collaborated with Italian engineer Daniele Gualeni on the "Design by Demand" lighting collection, featuring pieces produced in Italy by master craftsmen using metal, ceramic, Murano glass, and marble. Lightexture, a Troy-based design studio, creates perforated white clay spherical and egg-shaped pendant lamps. These lamps are designed to illuminate modern kitchens and dining areas by casting star-like patterns on walls and ceilings while providing warm light below. Each pendant uses an energy-efficient xenon bulb with a long lifespan. Finally, Entner Glass in Rhinebeck, NY, showcases Barry Entner’s sculptural lighting. His works, which are more artistic visions than commercial products, involve meticulously planned designs using hundreds of components to create gravity-defying glass and metal sculptures. Entner’s art has been exhibited internationally and is part of numerous private and public collections. #HudsonValley #LightingDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ArtisanLighting #VintageLighting #NeonArt #GlassArt

This blog post details a significant renovation of a 1970s South County residence, focusing on how lighting fixtures from Metro Lighting, in collaboration with KH Interiors, transformed the home. The project was led by interior designer Krista Howard of KH Interiors and Heidi Sanders of Metro Lighting, aiming to create a practical yet elevated space for a busy family of five. The renovation extended beyond a simple kitchen update, evolving into a two-story expansion that now includes a spacious cooking and dining area, along with a covered outdoor porch. Each design element was meticulously chosen to accommodate the family's active lifestyle, encompassing sports schedules, entertaining needs, and daily functionality. The team involved architect William Cover, Lurk’s Custom Cabinets, and photographer Anne Mathias, with Metro Lighting playing a crucial role in curating the home's lighting. In the reimagined kitchen, two large orb pendants are prominently featured above dual islands, one dedicated to storage and the other to function. These orbs are complemented by onyx stone cylinder fixtures that not only echo the kitchen's stone details but also cast a soft, sculptural glow. Above the breakfast table, a sleek gold fixture introduces a contrasting element, its simplicity providing a calm balance to the kitchen's more dynamic design features, creating a cohesive and visually appealing central gathering space. The lighting design extends thoughtfully into other areas of the home, transforming even transitional spaces. A hallway adjacent to the kitchen, referred to as the “kitchen hall,” connects bedrooms to public areas. Here, lighting is strategically used to gently illuminate stone accents, turning a functional corridor into a refined and welcoming passage. This attention to detail ensures that lighting serves both an aesthetic and practical purpose throughout the residence. The powder room and the adjacent lower-level pool changing area draw inspiration from the past, featuring brass vertical sconces reminiscent of 1940s design. These fixtures are paired with playful wallpaper to create an inviting retro-modern ambiance. The lighting in these areas is described as “quiet and classic,” designed to support the functionality of the space without becoming the dominant focal point, allowing other design elements to shine while providing adequate illumination. Beyond its aesthetic contributions, the home incorporates smart lighting and automated window treatments, enhancing both convenience and energy efficiency. These modern features allow the family to easily adjust their living environment, whether for hosting guests, relaxing in the evening, or quickly departing the house, all without compromising the home's timeless design integrity. Lurk’s Custom Cabinets further anchored the space with exceptional craftsmanship, coordinating finishes and cabinetry details with the overall lighting plan to ensure a harmonious visual flow between the kitchen and adjoining rooms. Ultimately, this South County residence represents more than just a renovation; it is a testament to thoughtful design, sustained collaboration, and the transformative power of architectural lighting. The project effectively elevates not only the home’s structure and aesthetics but also significantly enhances the family’s daily living experience. Through the combined expertise of Metro Lighting and KH Interiors, a once-dated kitchen has been revitalized into a radiant and central hub for connection and comfort within the home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LightingDesign #KitchenRemodel #SmartHome #ArchitecturalLighting #KHInteriors #MetroLighting

Evan Wood, the proprietor of Charlotte-based Chandelier & Light, specializes in transforming antique and unconventional items into distinctive lighting fixtures. His approach ensures originality by allowing clients to provide materials, fostering a unique collaborative design process. Wood's expertise lies in taking objects with historical or sentimental value, such as European keepsakes or flea market finds, and integrating them into new lighting designs. This method not only results in one-of-a-kind pieces but also allows for the preservation and repurposing of items that might otherwise be discarded. The more unusual the object, the more creative the challenge for Wood, leading to truly bespoke creations. A notable example of his innovative work involved an old fish trap, which he reconfigured into two distinct chandeliers. This exemplifies his ability to visualize new purposes for seemingly disparate objects. The success of Chandelier & Light is largely attributed to the quality and uniqueness of each finished product, leading to a business built primarily on word-of-mouth referrals. Initially, Wood engaged in traditional marketing efforts, distributing door flyers and mailing advertisements to interior decorators, electricians, and antique dealers. However, the distinctiveness of his craft quickly established a strong reputation within the community. Wood's creations can be found in various establishments and residences throughout Charlotte. Examples include a chandelier at Pizza Peel, sconces adorning the dressing rooms of Capitol boutique, and custom fixtures installed in NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson’s motor coach. While Chandelier & Light primarily serves interior designers and antique dealers, approximately a quarter of its clientele consists of homeowners seeking unique lighting solutions for their personal spaces. Beyond crafting bespoke lamps, Wood also provides essential services such as wiring and lighting repairs, further solidifying his role as a comprehensive lighting specialist. Operating his business from a workshop within his home, Wood embraces the challenge inherent in his work. He expresses a keen interest in encountering new and unfamiliar items, viewing them as opportunities to apply his problem-solving skills and restore them to their original or an enhanced state. Wood established Chandelier & Light in 1993, shortly after earning a mechanical engineering degree from UNC-Charlotte. This technical background, combined with his artistic sensibility and an eye for design, proved to be a highly effective combination, particularly during a period of significant growth and expansion in Charlotte. The diverse nature of his projects ensures that Wood remains engaged and stimulated, even in challenging economic conditions. He finds constant excitement in the prospect of new assignments, recognizing that there is always something novel to create or restore. This continuous influx of varied work keeps his passion for the craft alive. The article suggests that Chandelier & Light offers more information on page 50 of the Home & Garden October 2009 issue, placing this piece within a broader context of home and garden features. #LightingDesign #AntiqueRestoration #CustomLighting #HomeDecor #RepurposedMaterials #CharlotteDesign #InteriorDesign #ArtisticCraftsmanship

This article details the thoughtful lighting design within the Roundhouse, a full-service hospitality complex located in Beacon, New York. The Roundhouse is housed in historic 150-year-old structures that once served as a textile mill, and it offers a boutique hotel, an award-winning American restaurant, and an event space accommodating up to 200 guests. The property provides scenic views of a waterfall, a creek, and a bustling street, positioned conveniently close to Niche's location. The interior design of the Roundhouse prominently features contributions from local artisans, with Niche modern pendant lighting playing a significant role in creating an inviting atmosphere. In the creekside lounge, a cluster of custom Niche Crystal Solitaire pendants in various sizes is suspended above the bar. These minimalist pendants are designed to highlight a single Edison-style lamp, casting a warm glow that enhances the cozy ambiance of the lounge, making it an ideal spot for guests to relax by a fire and enjoy the Roundhouse’s signature cocktails. Elizabeth Strianese, the Interior Designer responsible for the original remodel, explains her vision for the lighting. She initially explored numerous custom chandelier concepts, all aimed at creating a playful and highly reflective effect. The Solitaire lights were ultimately chosen for their ability to evoke the appearance of large bubbles floating above the dark, grounded bar area. This design choice resulted in an elegant yet uncomplicated aesthetic, imbued with a subtle flirtatious quality. Within the restaurant area, which features floor-to-ceiling windows offering expansive views of the waterfall, tables of varying sizes are arranged throughout. Here, custom Niche Helio pendants, crafted from Effervescent glass with a custom Mercury overlay, hang from the high, wood-paneled ceiling. The Helio pendant is known for its versatility, offering both translucent and opaque color palettes, along with a range of lamping options. Its compact shape makes it particularly effective when grouped, as demonstrated in this setting. Strianese elaborates on the collaboration with Niche for the restaurant's lighting, seeking a custom pendant that would combine Niche's characteristic natural, handmade aesthetic with an added touch of sparkle. The objective was to install unique, locally-made lights at differing heights across the ceiling, creating an effect reminiscent of jewels or stars scattered across the sky. The Roundhouse restaurant features a large concrete shell, and the design aimed to maintain this industrial character. However, the lighting was intended to introduce a luxurious element that would elevate the space. Niche proved to be an ideal partner, successfully developing a light fixture that emits a soft, romantic interior glow while its exterior sparkles with reflections, adding a "bronzey fun" dimension to the ambiance. #RestaurantLighting #HotelDesign #BoutiqueHotel #ModernLighting #PendantLights #InteriorDesign #HistoricRenovation #UpstateNewYork

Uncle Wolfie's Breakfast Tavern, a new restaurant and bar located at 234 E. Vine St. in Brewers Hill, is set to open its doors on Monday, Dec. 17. The establishment is the culmination of a decade-long dream for husband and wife team Wolfgang and Whitney Schaefer, who envisioned a casual dining spot where a love for food and communal meals could flourish. The restaurant will offer a menu of creative breakfast and lunch dishes, complemented by a selection of cocktails. The journey to opening Uncle Wolfie's began in 2015 when the Schaefers acquired the historic Miller Brewing Company tied house. Their initial focus was transforming the building's second floor into their family residence. Following this, they launched Orange and Blue Co., a home decor boutique featuring a curated blend of vintage and modern goods. The breakfast tavern represents the third and final phase of the property's revitalization, which brings an end to its nearly 40-year vacancy. For the restaurant's design, the Schaefers collaborated with 360 Degrees, a design and build firm known for its work with several city restaurants. Whitney Schaefer highlighted their desire to source many design elements themselves while relying on 360 Degrees for structurally sound components like the bar and tables, and for ensuring functionality and compliance with city regulations. Ryan Foat, project manager at 360 Degrees, described the project as a "from scratch" endeavor, noting the extensive work required to transform the space from a mere root cellar and implement modern hospitality elements, including HVAC systems. The design strategy honored the building's historical identity as a tied house, with the bar serving as the central focal point, designed to appear as if it had always been there. The current bar's footprint mirrors the original. Historical nods are evident throughout, from the light fixtures to a penny tile rug surrounding the bar. Repurposed elements include original hardwood flooring, wainscoting, and tin ceiling tiles meticulously restored by Wolfgang and installed above the bar. Foat emphasized the restaurant's intention to embody the hospitable and comforting atmosphere of old neighborhood establishments. The quartz-topped bar, seating 14, anchors the 40-seat restaurant, which also features banquette-style seating for 26 guests along the east and south walls. The interior boasts an eclectic bohemian aesthetic, with warm yellows and cool grays that complement the Cream City brick walls. A strong connection exists between the restaurant and the adjacent Orange and Blue Co. through decor items from local Milwaukee female artisans. Examples include custom cushions behind the banquettes, fabricated by Vanessa Andrew of Madam Chino using custom fabric and Loom House antique rugs, and hung with leather straps by Jess Goehner of Directive. Espresso mugs by Kim Eckroth of Covet & Ginger and ginger-colored wallpaper from Chasing Paper are also locally sourced, adding texture and a blend of masculine and soft elements to the space. Local artist Whitney Anderson of Wit & Co. contributed various art pieces, including a graphic illustration of Wolfgang's father. The menu at Uncle Wolfie's also blends classic and contemporary. Traditional offerings like Johnny cakes, steak and eggs, and classic eggs Benedict are available alongside innovative creations such as peanut butter and jelly stuffed French toast and a sweet potato chorizo omelet, with prices ranging from $7 to $12. Lunch options include salads, such as a hearty steak salad, and sandwiches. Highlights include a chicken salad, grilled cheese, the "BCSS" with house beet-cured salmon, and the Breaky Burger, an American cheese-stuffed burger topped with Weber’s mustard, raspberry balsamic pickled onions, bacon, and an egg. Lunch items are priced between $9 and $14. The bar will offer bottled and canned beer, a short wine list, and a variety of creative cocktails, from bloody marys to jasmine tea toddies, in addition to full coffee service. The tavern will be open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. #restaurantOpening #brewersHill #localBusiness #homeDecor #interiorDesign #historicRenovation #breakfast #lunch #cocktailBar

British designer Tom Dixon has introduced a new coffee collection called "Brew," featuring a series of copper-covered products designed for brewing and serving coffee. The collection aims to celebrate the ritual of coffee making, from preparation to serving, emphasizing the coming together of heat, steam, water, and coffee grounds as a ceremonial performance. The Brew range encompasses a comprehensive set of items essential for the entire coffee experience. This includes a tin specifically designed for storing coffee beans or grounds, a precisely sized scoop for measuring, a traditional cafetiere for immersion brewing, and a stovetop espresso maker for a stronger brew. Complementing these are a milk pan for warming and frothing milk, elegant espresso cups, a biscuit tin to accompany the coffee, and a circular serving tray that neatly accommodates all the items. Crafted from stainless steel, the products in the Brew collection achieve their distinctive high-gloss, reflective appearance through the application of a thin copper film. This technique provides an even and brilliant copper finish across the exterior surfaces, distinguishing it from Dixon's earlier brass tea set. The choice of materials and finishing contributes to a sophisticated aesthetic that elevates the everyday coffee ritual. The design philosophy behind Brew centers on acknowledging coffee making as an art form and coffee drinking as an elevated occasion deserving of time and reverence. Each component of the set is meticulously designed not only for its functional purpose but also to contribute to the overall aesthetic and tactile experience. The thoughtful design extends to practicality, with features such as the stackable espresso cups, which allow for efficient storage on the circular serving tray. Tom Dixon, a prominent figure in British design, has frequently incorporated copper into his previous projects, spanning from stationery and home accessories to hotel lobby interiors. His consistent use of the material highlights its versatility and visual appeal. This new coffee set further reinforces his signature style, combining contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship and a focus on luxurious materials. The Brew collection reflects Dixon's ongoing commitment to creating functional yet aesthetically compelling objects that enhance daily life. #TomDixon #CoffeeSet #HomewareDesign #CopperProducts #BritishDesign #ProductDesign #CoffeeRitual #Kitchenware #HomeAccessories

This article highlights ten Brutalist-inspired lighting fixtures that incorporate metal, concrete, and design elements reminiscent of the Brutalist architectural style. The featured pieces showcase a blend of robust materials and functional aesthetics, making a strong statement in interior design. Among the selections is the Cubo light sculpture by Articolo Studios, crafted from brass, bronze, and glass, offering a distinctive geometric form. Lauren Rottet and Visual Comfort & Co. contribute the Entoure 17-inch rotating LED light pendant, designed in bronze, emphasizing a sleek and modern rotating mechanism. Jay Jermyn and Objects For Thought present the Sequence lamp, constructed from aluminum and frosted white glass, which provides a diffused, ambient light. Luca Nichetto, in collaboration with Matter Made, introduces the Legato Double Strings pendant. This fixture combines aluminum, brass, and acrylic with a textured graphite finish, creating a sophisticated multi-light arrangement. Eric Weil Designs offers the Brion lamps, which are made from board-formed concrete, featuring fabric-wrapped cords and patinated-brass touch controllers, highlighting the raw, industrial nature of Brutalism. Studio Italia Design, through Lodes, showcases the A-Tube Nano Swing recessed light. This ultra-light aluminum and transparent methacrylate fixture in chrome demonstrates a minimalist approach to recessed lighting. Sebastian Herkner and Vibia contribute the Class series, including floor and table lamps, as well as sconces, all made from aluminum and borosilicate glass with polycarbonate diffusers, offering a refined yet sturdy presence. Ilmiodesign's Belt floor lamp for Estiluz features a metal body, an optional glass shade, an acrylic lens diffuser, and integrated LED lighting, providing both functionality and a contemporary aesthetic. Zafferano’s Pina XXL cordless desk lamp, made from powder-coated die-cast aluminum, offers portability and a robust build, ideal for various settings. Finally, Ingo Maurer’s Shhh! pendant light presents a more whimsical yet industrial design. Each of these fixtures exemplifies the influence of Brutalism through their material choices, forms, and functional integration, making them suitable for diverse modern interiors seeking a bold and impactful lighting solution. #BrutalistDesign #LightingFixtures #InteriorDesign #ModernLighting #ProductDesign #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalLighting #ContemporaryDesign

The selection of appropriate lighting fixtures significantly influences a home's ambiance, moving beyond mere functionality to shape the overall feel of a space. Online lighting stores simplify the process of acquiring new lighting, offering a wide array of options from pendant lights to floor lamps, all accessible remotely. These platforms provide a broader selection than traditional brick-and-mortar shops and deliver products directly to consumers' homes. Several online retailers stand out for their distinct offerings. Lumens, established in 2004, is renowned for its extensive inventory of contemporary and on-trend lighting, furniture, and home goods. It features over 30,000 products from various brands, catering to diverse budgets and styles, and allows users to sort items by design, features, or trends. Gantri, a newer entrant from 2016, specializes in unique, 3D-printed lights made from plant-based materials. Its designs often blend modern aesthetics with mid-century or Art Deco influences, offering exclusive pieces created in collaboration with independent designers at accessible price points. Lamps Plus, founded in 1976, boasts an impressive collection of over 50,000 lighting designs across a wide spectrum of styles and price points. The retailer updates its inventory weekly and provides a "Room Inspiration" page to help customers visualize lighting options within different settings. Physical stores are also available for those who prefer an in-person shopping experience. Ikea is recognized for its economical, practical, and Scandinavian-inspired lighting solutions. Its online store offers a broad range of functional and stylish lighting types, including bedside lamps, pendant lights, and spotlights, with many options priced under $20, suitable for various room types from dorms to dining areas. Schoolhouse, since 2003, focuses on handcrafted, retro-inspired lighting fixtures manufactured in Portland, Oregon. The brand aims to create heirloom-quality pieces that transcend trends, offering industrial-modern designs at a mid-range price. It also provides home decor to assist with cohesive room designs. YLighting, a prominent retailer since 2001, specializes in contemporary and modern lighting. It stocks an extensive selection from over 300 international brands, covering indoor and outdoor fixtures in styles from mid-century to modern farmhouse. The website offers filtering options by room, brand, features, or decor styles, alongside an "Ideas" section for inspiration. Horchow distinguishes itself with eclectic and distinctive lighting pieces that depart from minimalist trends. The brand emphasizes high-quality, unusual furnishings that celebrate color, whimsical styles, and modern interpretations of traditional designs, offering a unique blend of old and new. Design Within Reach, founded in 1998, caters to designers and style-conscious consumers with cutting-edge contemporary lighting. Its products are typically higher-priced but are designed for longevity, featuring clean, classic, and timeless designs across various lighting types. Wayfair is a popular choice for budget-friendly home decor and lighting. It offers a vast and varied selection from numerous brands, covering both indoor and outdoor applications, with frequent sales and customer reviews to aid purchasing decisions. Wayfair also provides free shipping and responsive customer service. Arteriors, with over 30 years in the industry, integrates artistry and interior design to create statement lighting fixtures. Drawing inspiration from global design, architecture, fashion, and nature, Arteriors offers unique, aesthetically driven pieces that are both beautiful and functional. Rejuvenation specializes in vintage-inspired lighting and antique pieces, appealing to those who appreciate timeless designs. The brand modernizes past styles, building durable lights with traditional ideals. It also offers a selection of refurbished antique lighting and manufactures most of its inventory in Portland, Oregon. Birch Lane focuses on traditional, rustic, and farmhouse designs, providing warm and classic lighting fixtures. Its online platform includes a "Room Ideas" section to inspire decor and lighting choices, featuring a curated selection of ceiling lights, wall lights, lamps, and outdoor lighting. Finally, The Home Depot, a major home improvement retailer, offers a comprehensive range of practical and stylish lighting solutions. Beyond renovation essentials like spotlights and track lighting, it provides decorative fixtures such as pendant lights, desk lights, and floor lamps, all at affordable prices with free shipping options. #OnlineLightingStores #HomeLighting #InteriorDesign #ModernLighting #VintageLighting #ContemporaryLighting #HomeDecor #LightingFixtures #HomeImprovement

This article explores how the design principles used in trendy, comfortable restaurants, particularly those with an industrial-rustic aesthetic, can be applied to home decoration to create chic yet welcoming spaces. It draws inspiration from Monument, a Charlestown restaurant designed by Erica Diskin of Assembly Design Studio, which successfully blends high style with comfort. The concept of "elevated comfort" is central, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that are both impressive and relaxing, a principle equally applicable to homes where over-glamorous furnishings can deter a sense of ease. The article highlights several key design lessons from Monument's transformation. The first involves the careful preservation of original architectural elements during renovation. In Monument's case, this meant exposing existing wood rafters and brick walls after demolishing a drab laundromat to create the bar area. This approach leveraged the building's inherent character and history, aligning with the preference of many homeowners in historic areas like Charlestown who value authentic details. The exposed wood, with its rich patina, and brick provided a warm, natural foundation for the design. Material selection is another crucial aspect. Diskin heavily incorporated wood to achieve a rustic American tavern aesthetic. She sourced reclaimed barn wood from the 1700s for wall paneling and used mixed-width hardwood floors, reclaimed white-oak for the bar, and pumpkin pine for booth benches. These natural materials contribute to a warm, cozy color palette and help to dampen sound, a practical benefit in high-ceilinged spaces. The article also touches upon softening industrial elements, such as cladding metal windows with wood frames, to enhance comfort. Lighting strategy is presented as vital for high-ceilinged, open spaces. Monument, with its soaring ceilings, utilizes pendant lighting to bring illumination closer to the human scale, making the vast space feel more intimate. Diskin installed 18 antique hanging lights, and lighting expert Karen Edson, who lived in a similar loft, advises using significantly more lighting than one might initially think necessary, along with custom drum-style pendant lamps to visually lower ceiling height and occupy vertical space. This approach helps prevent open spaces from feeling overwhelmingly cavernous and ensures adequate light distribution. Defining open floor plans is another challenge addressed. Monument's owners thoughtfully arranged the space to ensure interesting views from every seat, a principle that can be translated to homes by considering sightlines from various vantage points. Edson suggests pulling furniture away from walls and using large area rugs to define distinct living zones and create coziness in expansive rooms. She also advocates for a personalized approach to decor, mixing secondhand finds with high-end pieces to achieve a unique and lived-in look, avoiding an empty or sterile feel. Diskin echoes this by emphasizing the display of personal objects and themed antiques to add character. The article concludes by encouraging readers to draw inspiration from diverse sources, whether magazines, bed and breakfasts, or local restaurants, to personalize their home environments. #IndustrialStyle #HomeDecor #RestaurantDesign #InteriorDesign #RusticCharm #ReclaimedMaterials #LightingDesign #SpacePlanning #ArchitecturalSalvage

The article delves into the resurgence of chrome decor in interior design, marking a shift from the prevalent warm-toned metals like brass and gold. While chrome has a long history in home interiors, its recent comeback emphasizes a vintage, retro aesthetic rather than a purely modern, shiny look. Interior designers are embracing this cool-toned metal, drawing parallels to its use in the 1990s and its association with iconic designers like Le Corbusier and Jean Prouvé. Contemporary artists are also reinterpreting chrome, offering diverse options for both vintage enthusiasts and those seeking modern statement pieces. One key strategy for integrating chrome decor is to pair it with soft, organic textures such as mohair, wool, and cashmere. These materials help balance the cool intensity of chrome, creating a more inviting and homely atmosphere. The article suggests using organic forms in accessories and sculptural lighting to further enhance this balance. Christine Gachot, co-founder of GACHOT, highlights that soft textures allow for larger chrome statement pieces, like coffee tables or sofa legs, which are effectively complemented by materials such as lacquer, ceruse wood, and silk area rugs. Chrome hardware is also making a significant return in kitchens, replacing the brass fixtures that have been popular in recent years. Chrome handles, drawer pulls, and faucets are now being incorporated into various kitchen styles, from traditional to modern. Abigail Turin, co-founder at Kallos Turin, notes their firm's increasing use of chrome for plumbing fixtures and hardware. The article illustrates this with a kitchen design featuring chrome drawer pulls and a range hood, balanced with white tiles, cabinetry, dark hardwood flooring, and a contrasting dark marble island with black cabinetry. Successful integration of chrome decor also involves careful styling with complementary materials. Anthony Barzilay Freund, editorial director at 1stDibs, suggests pairing chrome with warm, textural materials that exhibit a handcrafted quality, such as terracotta and handwoven textiles. He also points out the enduring synergy between chrome and glass, citing Eileen Gray’s classic e-1027 table as an example. When sourcing chrome pieces, looking for items that already incorporate a blend of these complementary materials can ensure a natural fit within a design scheme. The article further advises that mixing contrasting metals with chrome is acceptable and can create an eclectic, balanced, and timeless design. While a cohesive approach is generally preferred for elements like door hardware, where consistency is maintained across both sides of a door, designers like Abigail Turin advocate for intentional mixing of chrome with brass and matte steel in other areas. Subtlety is emphasized, especially when introducing chrome through lighting. Instead of overwhelming a room, chrome pendant lights or wall sconces can offer a significant impact. The article provides an example of chrome pendant lights above a wooden dining table, where the contrast between the metal's cool tone and the wood's warmth creates an inviting ambiance. Finally, incorporating a blend of styles alongside chrome decor is crucial. Chrome details on furniture, such as sofa legs or accent tables, or even abstract artworks, can serve as subtle accents. Anthony Barzilay Freund highlights that chrome objects can find their place in diverse stylistic contexts, suggesting that a variety of styles within a space enhances the chrome's appeal. He cautions against overusing chrome and advises introducing a variety of textures to maintain warmth and prevent a sterile appearance. The overall message is that chrome decor offers versatility, allowing for both subtle integration and bold statements, with options available for contemporary and vintage preferences alike. #ChromeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #CoolMetals #KitchenDesign #HomeDecor #VintageStyle #ModernInteriors #MixingMetals #LightingDesign

This article highlights the design of a contemporary, light-filled Canadian home that replaced a tear-down in Old Ottawa South. Commissioned by a professional couple with two children, the home was designed by Jason Flynn of Flynn Architect with a focus on creating a clean, modern, and welcoming environment. Flynn, known for integrating new homes into established neighborhoods, crafted an efficient space that reflects the family's personality. A key design element discussed is the incorporation of Niche plum modern pendant lighting in the kitchen. A trio of Solitaire pendants in Plum glass are suspended above the eat-in kitchen island, serving as a focal point. The deep, rich color of the handmade Plum glass is intentionally chosen to complement other warm, purple accents throughout the interior, specifically mentioning a square pattern rug that extends across the room. This color choice also plays a role in harmonizing the space by enhancing the natural walnut wood grains present in the flooring and bar stools. The design maintains a balance between modernity and warmth, with classic white cabinetry providing a striking backdrop for the bold pendant lights. Jason Flynn emphasizes that the use of walnut wood and the strategic 'pop of color' from the pendant lights were crucial in preventing the room from appearing too stark, thereby contributing to the overall inviting ambiance of the home. The article underscores how thoughtful lighting selection and material choices can significantly influence the character and comfort of a living space. #KitchenDesign #ModernLighting #PendantLights #InteriorDesign #CanadianHomes #HomeDecor #ColorAccents

Danielle Trofe, through her brand MushLume Lighting, is pioneering a new direction in design by transforming mushrooms into light fixtures. This innovative approach integrates nature, technology, and craftsmanship, offering a forward-looking vision for interior spaces. The article highlights an interview with Danielle Trofe in her Brooklyn studio, where she discussed the origins and development of her mycelium-based lighting products. Trofe's journey into biomaterials began in 2011 with Danielle Trofe Design, initially focusing on hydroponics. However, in 2014, her research into sustainable material alternatives led her to discover mycelium, the root structure of fungi. The realization that she could grow objects into specific shapes using a living organism became a pivotal moment, inspiring her to dedicate a decade to collaborating with a biomaterials company to bring mycelium to the forefront of lighting design. This commitment addresses the growing concern over the environmental impact of mass production by offering a sustainable alternative. Mycelium is a rapidly renewable material known for its strength, fire resistance, and biodegradability. It grows by binding agricultural byproducts, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious design. Trofe explained that MushLume Lighting utilizes low-heat LED bulbs, which are well-suited to the fire-resistant properties of mycelium. The production process involves hand-packing hemp substrate into molds, allowing the mycelium to grow into a solid structure within 7-10 days, forming the base of the lamps. The lamps’ domes feature natural curves that enhance the interior illumination, creating a soft and inviting glow. The use of natural, VOC-free lime wash provides earth tones that complement the organic texture of the mycelium. Addressing common concerns about using living organisms in home products, Trofe clarified that the mycelium lamps are not 'alive' when they reach consumers. The material undergoes a heat and drying process that renders it inert, eliminating any possibility of mushrooms sprouting from the fixtures. The article notes the challenges Trofe faced in establishing MushLume Lighting, as there was no existing brand to support this novel material. This necessitated creating a new brand to introduce, cultivate, and validate mycelium as a viable product in the market. While MushLume Lighting has been established in the U.S. for a decade, it has recently gained traction in European markets, where sustainability is a central tenet of design. This expansion underscores the alignment of Trofe’s work with the continent's eco-conscious movement. Trofe's passion for nature and sustainability is a driving force behind her design philosophy, emphasizing the need for balance in human creations and a deeper connection with the environment. She expressed inspiration from algae as a potential future material due to its rapid renewability and ability to replace more resource-intensive options. The article concludes with a tour of Trofe's studio, highlighting the hands-on craftsmanship involved in filling molds and observing the mycelium growth process. This blend of scientific innovation and artistic creation reflects Trofe’s thoughtful approach to design. The interview ended with Trofe sharing her ideal dinner guests, including figures like Merlin Sheldrake, Paul Stamets, Tom Dixon, Zaha Hadid, Ray Eames, and Lonneke Gordijn, indicating a broad appreciation for both scientific and design pioneers. #LightingDesign #BiophilicDesign #InnovationDesign #InnovativeMaterials #SustainableDesign #MyceliumLighting #DanielleTrofe #MushLumeLighting