La Vieille Maison and Lighting, Inc.

The demand for antique and vintage pieces continues to rise, yet finding reliable sources for items like vintage lamps can be challenging due to concerns about functionality and rewiring. To address this, editors have compiled a list of the ten best online curated marketplaces that offer unique and restored vintage lighting fixtures. These platforms ensure authenticity and lasting beauty for years to come. Chairish is highlighted for its extensive variety, boasting over 10,000 vintage lamp listings from 12,000 small businesses, covering styles from Art Deco to Hollywood Regency. Shoppers are advised to look for brand names or maker's signatures to confirm authenticity. The Expert is recommended for designer-approved picks, offering a curated selection by antique dealers and designers, including rare Josef Frank floor lamps and 1970s pine desk lamps. 1stDibs specializes in luxury antiques, furniture, and art, particularly excelling in mid-century lamps, such as Munro glass sconces and the iconic Arco floor lamp. Rejuvenation, known for heirloom-quality lighting, provides a section of carefully restored vintage fixtures and lamps spanning from Victorian and Arts and Crafts to Art Deco and mid-century designs. Nickey Kehoe, founded by Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe, offers globally sourced vintage styles, including French wood table lamps and metal chandeliers. Jayson Home features a curated collection of vintage lighting, from crystal chandeliers to colorful table lamps, noting that these unique items sell quickly. Bob's Attic, a sister brand of Replacements, presents a selection of unique items, including Neoclassical bronze floor lamps and Murano glass table lamps in jewel tones. Chez Pluie, based in Provence, is the go-to for French antiques and accessories, with weekly collection updates and worldwide shipping. Shoppe by Amber Interiors showcases a collection of vintage and antique treasures globally, with lamps sourced from Sweden, France, and Nigeria. Lastly, Etsy is recognized as an excellent platform for one-of-a-kind vintage lamps, offering rare and hard-to-find models like Danish floor lamps from the 1960s and 1970s. These online retailers provide diverse options for those seeking to incorporate vintage lighting into their homes without the hassle of restoration. #VintageLamps #OnlineShopping #HomeDecor #AntiqueLighting #InteriorDesign #CuratedMarketplaces #MidCenturyModern #ArtDeco #HomeAccessories

The choice of lighting in a home significantly influences its overall ambiance and character, moving beyond mere functionality to reflect deliberate design intent. Opting for a vintage lamp signals a thoughtful approach to home decor, distinguishing a space from those furnished with hastily acquired, mass-market items. These pieces carry historical design context, whether drawing from mid-century modern, Art Deco, or Hollywood Regency styles, and serve as statements of refined taste. For those seeking unique vintage lighting, several specialized retailers offer diverse options. 1st Dibs is renowned for its collection of vintage rarities, featuring iconic works often seen in the homes of celebrities and designers. This platform is a treasure trove for design enthusiasts, offering everything from Charlotte Perriand sconces to reissues of classic designs like Carlo Nason's Gelato lamp. The items available on 1st Dibs often represent significant design periods and are curated for their historical and aesthetic value, making it a primary destination for collectors and those looking for investment pieces in lighting. Etsy provides a more eclectic marketplace, ideal for discovering a specific 'vibe' rather than precise models or designers. Shoppers can use broad keyword searches such as 'Art Deco' or 'ginger jar lamp' to uncover a wide array of vintage lighting, ranging from affordable thrift-store finds to valuable antiques. The platform's extensive network of international and local sellers means a vast selection spanning various centuries and styles, often at more competitive prices than higher-end vintage outlets, with sellers independently managing shipping. eBay is another robust platform for finding virtually any vintage lamp imaginable. Its extensive back catalog includes Chinoiserie, vintage Noguchi lamps, kitschy conch shell lamps, Tiffany glass shades, and even original Pixar lamp designs. The sheer volume of listings makes it a strong contender for discovering obscure or highly specific vintage pieces, appealing to those who enjoy the thrill of the hunt and are open to a broad range of styles and conditions. Design Within Reach specializes in reissuing iconic models in collaboration with original manufacturers. This approach gives new life to classic pieces such as Verner Panton’s Panthella, Herman Miller’s 1952 Cigar Lotus floor lamp, Greta Grossman’s 1947 Gräshoppa, and the Space Age-inspired Nessino table lamp. These reissues offer the aesthetic appeal of vintage designs with the assurance of modern manufacturing quality and availability, making them accessible to a wider audience interested in historical design without the complexities of sourcing original vintage items. Finally, Williams Sonoma offers a selection of modern pieces with a historical flair, catering to various design movements, from Tudor Revival to Colonial homes. While not strictly vintage, their vintage-inspired lamps provide a more budget-friendly alternative for achieving a classic aesthetic. These pieces combine traditional design elements with contemporary manufacturing, offering both style and affordability for those looking to infuse their homes with a sense of history and elegance through lighting. #VintageLamps #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #Lighting #AntiqueLighting #DesignClassics #EtsyVintage #eBayFinds #DesignWithinReach

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

IKEA, founded in 1948, revolutionized furniture accessibility by cutting out the middleman, a principle that still guides its operations. Over its 75-year history, IKEA has collaborated with notable designers such as Joe Columbo, Vico Magistretti, Ilse Crawford, and Sabine Marcelis, contributing to a diverse design catalog. While iconic pieces like the 1984 Ivar storage system and the 1979 Billy bookcase remain popular, many older designs have been discontinued. However, these discontinued items, particularly vintage lighting fixtures, are experiencing a resurgence in popularity and are readily available on platforms like Etsy. Vintage IKEA lamps on Etsy offer a range of styles, from funky 1980s designs to 1990s Memphis-inspired aesthetics. Shoppers interested in acquiring these pieces should be aware that European plug adapters might be necessary for some items. The article highlights several examples of covetable vintage IKEA lamps, providing insights into their unique characteristics and design periods. The Antimon Lamp, for instance, features a distinctive wriggly base and was released in 1996, predating the recent squiggle design trend. The Neon Green Talvik Desk Lamp, designed by Anne Nilsson, is noted for its elongated shade and yellow-green hue, with pin-sized holes that create a star-like lighting effect when illuminated. The Stoja Desk Lamp, reflecting the enduring Memphis design trend, was created by Ettore Sottsass, offering a playful and whimsical aesthetic with primary colors. The Iviken Ice Cube Lamp, a 1990s design inspired by the space age and ice cubes, provides a soft glow through its thick frosted glass, creating a pleasant ambiance. Another unique piece is the Bista Porcelain Wall Lamp, a plug-in sconce featuring a pleated shade that, despite its appearance, is crafted from sculptural porcelain. The Glass Lykta Lamp, a compact 1990s design under 10 inches tall, is versatile enough to fit on bookshelves, kitchen counters, or as a nightstand accessory. For those seeking more futuristic options, the Galax Lamp by Danish designer Bent Boysen is presented as an ideal choice for creating a groovy kitchen island lighting setup if multiple units can be sourced. Lastly, the Robert Sonneman Mushroom Lamp from the 1980s is highlighted for its contemporary appeal, featuring a trendy chrome finish and a classic mushroom shape that still looks modern today. The article emphasizes that searching for terms like “vintage IKEA lamp” or specific model names on Etsy can lead to more discoveries of these discontinued, yet highly sought-after, lighting pieces. #VintageIKEALighting #EtsyFinds #HomeDecor #RetroDesign #IKEADiscontinued #Lighting #InteriorDesign #ShoppingGuide

skinflint, a British lighting brand, has dedicated over a decade to giving new life to vintage lights, rescuing more than 50,000 items from landfills. The company sources lights globally, from abandoned glassworks in Budapest to old Navy ships, meticulously restoring them to modern electrical standards while preserving their original character. Co-founder Chris Miller emphasizes that repairing, restoring, fixing, and mending were integral to his upbringing, influencing his career path and the foundation of skinflint, which was established with a mission to prevent vintage lights from ending up in landfills. He notes that the practice of repairing vintage lights is an act of care for both the planet and its inhabitants. The appeal of repairing objects over creating new ones for skinflint lies in a triple-bottom-line approach, prioritizing people and the planet over profit, especially as a Certified B Corp. Miller believes that restoring and repairing vintage lights is the most effective way to achieve this. The company aims to counteract "fast furniture" trends, thus avoiding the creation of new waste through designing and manufacturing new lighting. Vintage lights, crafted before the concept of planned obsolescence, were built to endure. This inherent durability allows skinflint to find them in remarkable locations worldwide, often outliving the structures they once illuminated. Miller prefers the term "restoration" to describe skinflint's work, defining it as an effort to preserve as much of each vintage light's original character as possible. This involves ensuring modern technological standards are met while consciously retaining signs of age and patina, which tell the unique story of each light's journey from diverse locations such as UK churches, private residences in Prague, and Eastern Bloc factories. The inspiration for skinflint stemmed from a desire to challenge the conventional approach to lighting in modern spaces. In 2009, the founders tested their theory in a Victorian home in North London, which ultimately led to the brand's establishment. Fourteen years later, skinflint remains true to its founding mission, with an ethos that positions business as a force for good, demonstrated through initiatives like 1% for the Planet. The restoration process is varied, tailored to each light, and involves techniques such as soda-blasting for paint removal, polishing, and lacquering. The process is slow and meticulous, always executed with sustainability and environmental priorities in mind. The objective is to preserve the original function of salvaged vintage lights, enabling them to continue their stories. This means a light that once illuminated a mine shaft could later adorn the ceilings of B Corps like Aesop and Patagonia. The visibility of repair is managed to retain the light's character, with patina seen as an asset that adds to its history and makes for interesting conversation pieces. However, all electrical components are rigorously updated to meet modern technological standards. As a member of the UK Lighting Industry Association, skinflint undergoes independent audits and verification to ensure faultless functionality. Consumer attitudes towards mending and repair are evolving, with clients showing increased awareness of environmental impact. skinflint's B Corp Certification legally obligates the company to consider and report on its impact, pushing it to continuously refine its circular working methods. This commitment is exemplified by the recent introduction of Full Circle, a product buy-back scheme that offers clients a 50% credit for returning vintage lights, ensuring their continued existence. The company also provides a lifetime guarantee for repairs, reinforcing its dedication to circularity. Looking ahead, skinflint envisions a future where its fully circular approach to vintage lighting, particularly with its buy-back scheme, inspires other industry players to adopt similar practices, fostering sector-wide change and a more sustainable future. Katie Treggiden, a purpose-driven journalist, author, and podcaster, champions a circular approach to design and contributed to this article as Editor at Large for Design Milk. Her work explores how craft can contribute to saving the world through initiatives like her book "Wasted: When Trash Becomes Treasure" and her podcast, "Circular with Katie Treggiden." #VintageLighting #Restoration #CircularEconomy #SustainableDesign #BCorp #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #RepairCulture #EnvironmentalImpact

Julia Kramer, a former Bon Appétit editor, and her husband, Zach Kaplan, purchased a Craftsman home in Koreatown, Los Angeles, sight unseen during the early days of the pandemic. The decision was primarily influenced by a stained-glass peacock window in the dining room, which resonated with their family's experience visiting live peacocks at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. This personal connection served as a significant sign, making the long-distance purchase feel destined. The couple, still residing in their two-bedroom apartment in New York’s Upper West Side, relied on an L.A.-based friend to view the property shortly after it was listed before making an offer. Following the purchase, and with only six weeks until their move, Kramer and Kaplan enlisted the help of Jamie Haller, an experienced Craftsman restorer and shoe designer. Haller's primary task was to modernize certain aspects of the home while also stripping away inappropriate additions, such as built-in speaker systems in the living room and kitchen, and numerous recessed lights. The goal was to preserve the original character and 'good stuff' of the Craftsman style. Kramer, who was largely put off by the ubiquity of newly remodeled kitchens featuring subway tile and open shelves during her house hunt, found the untouched, wood-heavy kitchen of this home particularly appealing. She expressed a preference for living without common countertop materials like marble and granite and appreciated the kitchen's separation from other rooms, allowing her personal space while cooking. Restoration efforts in the kitchen focused on subtle yet crucial updates. Haller oversaw the replacement of awning window chains with historically accurate hardware, a task that required considerable effort to source and install. She emphasized 'restraint' in the renovation process, focusing on making the space functional without sacrificing its original charm. A carpenter was brought in to repair the track of the old-fashioned bread box's garage door, ensuring its safe operation. While the kitchen lacks modern amenities like soft-close hinges, it retains a distinct 'soul' that appealed to the owners. One of the most challenging projects was the living room, where plaster walls had been covered in blue silk dupioni fabric and secured with an estimated 45,000 staples. Removing these staples was a laborious process, taking a week of manual effort. The focal point of the revitalized living room became Kramer’s vintage coffee table, a 1stdibs acquisition, which uniquely functions as a champagne and shrimp cocktail station, with its inverted center perfectly accommodating her ice bucket. Haller also had to source new lighting fixtures, as the previous owners took the originals. She turned to a salvage shop in Los Angeles known for preserving lights from Old Hollywood celebrity homes, finding an antique sconce for the guest bedroom’s salvaged sink that once belonged to Buster Keaton. Distinguishing this Craftsman from others, the home features dark, purple-hued mahogany wood rather than the typical red-orange Douglas fir. This unique wood tone harmonizes surprisingly well with subtle pink accents, such as the original fireplace grout and the new dining room walls, which were painted a soft dusty lavender-gray. Haller noted that the natural light interacting with these elements creates a warm glow. Due to the tight renovation schedule, restoring the painted wood trim was not feasible. Instead, it was repainted in Farrow & Ball’s dark navy shade, Railings, to achieve a cohesive look. In contrast to the home’s more vibrant areas, the main bedroom adopted a softer palette, transforming its previous purple walls into a serene cream. Kramer, typically drawn to maximalist designs, was swayed by Haller’s vision for a neutral, tranquil space. The bedroom renovation included creating two closets on either side of the bed by reallocating space from an adjacent children’s room, and adding a built-in reading nook with a tufted cushion, which serves as Kramer’s preferred work-from-home spot. For the children’s bedrooms, Kramer and Haller exercised a different form of restraint, opting for allover wallpapers with prints that strike a balance between kid-friendly and adult-approved aesthetics. Kramer expressed her desire to postpone 'ugly child spaces,' choosing whimsical crane designs by House of Hackney for her youngest son's room and a floral print by the same brand for the bathroom. She found that the numerous built-ins in the large bathroom helped to break up the busy floral pattern effectively. The various bird motifs throughout the home, from the initial peacock window to the crane wallpaper, have become a personal symbol of good fortune for Kramer. #HomeTour #CraftsmanHome #LosAngelesRealEstate #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #SightUnseenPurchase #HistoricPreservation #VintageDecor #FamilyHome

HK Associates undertook an extensive renovation of a mid-century modern home in Arizona's Catalina Foothills, originally designed and built by Tucson architect Tom Gist. The project, named Casa Luce, aimed to modernize the 1960s structure while preserving its architectural heritage. The original residence featured earthen walls of burnt adobe and a low-slung roof, characteristic of Gist's style. Despite its historical significance, the home required significant updates to meet contemporary living standards. The redesign prioritized enhancing natural light, removing obstructive elements, updating finishes, and unifying the ceiling design to create a seamless connection between the interior and the desert landscape. Initially, the home suffered from an introverted layout, particularly a dimly lit and closed-off kitchen that overlooked a floor-to-ceiling picture window with views of the Santa Rita Mountains. The spatial continuity was further disrupted by a low mechanical bulkhead, a sunken indoor terrarium, and a compartmentalized ceiling composed of painted wood beams and textured white plaster. The renovation by HK Associates sought to rectify these issues, transforming the living spaces into a light-filled, open-plan environment. A pivotal modification involved the removal of four masonry piers that supported the central roof. This structural change allowed for the creation of a floating ceiling, dramatically altering the perception of space in the main living areas and enhancing spatial fluidity. This required advanced engineering, precise carpentry, and careful construction. The material palette chosen for Casa Luce emphasizes natural light and subtle design. Artisanal lime plaster walls and sustainable wood veneer cabinetry were incorporated, creating a minimal yet sophisticated aesthetic that complements the home's original concrete, adobe, and timber elements. These materials were selected to reflect the balance between structure and environment prevalent in the Sonoran Desert. The bedroom wing also underwent a significant transformation. A previously dark and enclosed corridor was reimagined as a passage guided by light. A frosted glass screen positioned at the entrance to the kitchen diffuses natural light, while the partially exposed roof structure casts dynamic shadows that shift with the sun's movement, creating an interactive play of light and space throughout the home. The outdoor areas were redesigned to extend the interior's visual perception and strengthen the connection to the natural surroundings. An infinity-edge swimming pool was added, visually extending towards the distant Santa Rita Mountains from the south-facing picture window. Adjacent to the pool, long concrete steps emerge from the interior, serving as amphitheater seating for outdoor living and framing the desert landscape. In summary, the Casa Luce project by HK Associates revitalized a mid-century modern residence by addressing its functional shortcomings while honoring its historical integrity. The renovation focused on opening up the interior, maximizing natural light and views, and integrating the home more deeply with its desert environment through thoughtful material selection and innovative structural modifications. The result is a contemporary dwelling that respects its origins while offering enhanced living spaces and a profound connection to its unique setting. #CasaLuce #HKAssociates #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #ArizonaArchitecture #NaturalLightDesign #DesertLiving #SustainableDesign

Lambert & Fils, a design studio based in Montréal, is set to unveil its new lighting fixture, Laurent, at the upcoming ICFF (International Contemporary Furniture Fair). This introduction follows the positive reception of their previous Beaubien series. The Laurent collection is characterized by its blend of opalescent glass spheres and graphic metal elements, which combine to form sculptural and visually engaging fixtures. Each fixture in the Laurent series features two opalescent orbs that serve to secure a central black metallic component. These orbs offer adjustability, allowing them to be angled slightly inwards or to hang directly downwards, depending on the desired aesthetic and how they are anchored to the ceiling. This design flexibility provides various configurations to suit different interior preferences and spatial requirements. The Laurent collection reflects a modern and minimalist design philosophy, emphasizing clean lines and the interplay of materials. The opalescent glass diffuses light softly, creating a warm and inviting ambiance, while the metal components add a structural and contemporary edge. The design's modular nature allows for versatility in installation, making it suitable for a range of applications, from residential to commercial spaces. The ability to manipulate the angle of the orbs introduces a dynamic element to the fixtures, enabling users to customize the light distribution and visual impact. This adaptive feature ensures that the lighting can be tailored to complement various architectural styles and interior schemes. The development of Laurent Lighting builds on Lambert & Fils' reputation for innovative and high-quality lighting solutions. Their previous Beaubien series, inspired by Chinese screens, showcased their ability to merge traditional influences with contemporary design. The Laurent collection continues this tradition by exploring new forms and material combinations, pushing the boundaries of modern lighting design. The selection of opalescent glass and dark metal components creates a sophisticated contrast, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the fixtures. The design process likely involved extensive experimentation with shapes, materials, and light diffusion techniques to achieve the desired sculptural quality and functional versatility. The launch of Laurent at ICFF provides an important platform for Lambert & Fils to showcase their latest work to an international audience of designers, architects, and industry professionals. This exhibition offers an opportunity to demonstrate the unique features and artistic merits of the Laurent collection, further establishing the brand's presence in the global design community. The photographs accompanying the announcement, taken by Arseni Khamzin and provided by v2com, highlight the intricate details and various applications of the Laurent fixtures, illustrating their potential to enhance diverse interior environments. These images capture the delicate balance between the spherical glass elements and the rigid metal frames, emphasizing the collection's sculptural presence. Overall, the Laurent Lighting collection by Lambert & Fils represents a significant addition to contemporary lighting design. It combines aesthetic elegance with functional adaptability, offering a distinctive and customizable lighting solution for modern spaces. The careful selection of materials and the innovative design approach ensure that Laurent fixtures are not only sources of illumination but also striking sculptural pieces that contribute to the overall ambiance and style of an interior. #LaurentLighting #LambertEtFils #ICFF #LightingDesign #ModernLighting #OpalescentGlass #SculpturalFixtures #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign

Lenleys Home, an independent, family-run furnishing business, is approaching its 90th anniversary, having been established in 1936 by Lavinia Watts’ grandfather and his business partner in Canterbury. Lavinia, now the third generation to lead the business alongside her cousin, reflects on its enduring legacy and adaptation within a changing retail landscape. The company maintains core values of excellent customer service, quality products, and reasonable prices, while continuously modernizing its offerings. The business prides itself on offering a comprehensive range of home furnishings, including a dedicated flooring and interiors department that handles curtains, blinds, awnings, wallpapers, and fabrics. This allows customers to complete full renovations under one roof with expert guidance. Lavinia’s entry into the interiors world was influenced by growing up around the furniture industry, with her father running the business and her mother possessing a keen eye for interiors. Her academic background in fashion further honed her interest in colors, trends, and consumer journeys. Lavinia shares insights into her favorite and least favorite projects. She enjoyed introducing high-end furniture ranges like Duresta in collaboration with Matthew Williamson, known for bright colors and extravagant prints. The rebranding of Lenleys Home in Canterbury and Maidstone was a rewarding, albeit time-consuming, endeavor. More recently, she organized a successful independent makers market in the Canterbury showroom to support local artisans during the Christmas period. Her least favorite memory is the challenging period of closing showrooms during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time marked by uncertainty and the heavy responsibility of navigating an 84-year-old business through unprecedented times. When asked about famous homes she'd like to explore, Lavinia expresses a desire to see Sophie Robinson's home for its pattern clashing and bold colors, and Victoria Beckham's home, which she imagines to be incredibly polished and sophisticated. She finds inspiration for her work from various sources, including international trade shows in Paris and Milan. Her fashion background also prompts her to observe emerging fashion trends, which often filter into the interiors and furniture sectors, albeit at a slower pace. Social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram are valuable resources for style ideas, and she continuously seeks inspiration from hotel and restaurant interiors, and small independent stores during her travels. The buying aspect and the opportunity to travel are among her favorite parts of the job, along with working with her family and the dedicated wider team. Despite her professional immersion in interiors, her own home life with a toddler and another baby on the way means her personal interior design projects are often secondary. Her favorite rooms include her dining room, characterized by a ceramic table with pops of color from artwork, and her bedroom, a calming space with high ceilings, natural light, earthy tones, and natural fibers, featuring a comfortable Vispring bed. Lavinia concludes by offering ten tips for home design, emphasizing the importance of physically experiencing investment pieces, having a clear vision, consulting experts, planning layouts, defining a color scheme with accent colors, trusting instincts, testing samples, using rugs for impact, painting skirting boards the same color as walls for a sense of height, and supporting local businesses. #LenleysHome #FamilyBusiness #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #CanterburyRetail #DesignExpertise #RetailLegacy #HomeDecor #LaviniaWatts

Lighting plays a crucial role in interior design, influencing the ambiance and aesthetic of any room. Despite its impact, it is often an overlooked element in home decor. The color of light is as significant as paint colors or furniture upholstery in setting the desired tone for a space. Given the vast array of lighting options available, from floor lamps and table lamps to sconces, chandeliers, and outdoor lighting, the search for the perfect fixture can be overwhelming. This guide compiles recommendations from expert interior designers, detailing the best online lighting stores that offer diverse styles and price points. Leading online lighting stores include Lightology, praised by designer Jean Liu for its extensive selection across various decorative lighting types, including track, display, and outdoor lighting, making it a comprehensive one-stop shop. The Urban Electric Co. is highlighted by Bradley Odom for its heirloom-quality, design-forward pieces and commitment to handcrafted Southern artisanship, offering customizable and ready-to-ship options. Huey Light Shop, a Canada-based retailer, is noted for its unique, nature-inspired traditional and modern designs, particularly its porcelain fixtures, all handmade with a focus on sustainability and ethically sourced materials. For unique and vintage finds, 1stDibs is recommended by Amy Carman, providing an impressive range of styles from various eras and serving as a platform to discover emerging lighting designers. Design Within Reach is recognized by Liu as a valuable resource for mid-century modern lighting classics, stocking popular brands like Artemide and Herman Miller. Pooky offers a distinct customization experience, allowing shoppers to personalize pieces with different shades at affordable prices, covering ceiling, wall, outdoor, floor, and table lighting, along with an array of lamp shades and bulbs. Garde is lauded by Carman for its avant-garde collection of unique lighting fixtures, ideal for those seeking cutting-edge designs not yet widely available. Riloh, based in Charleston, crafts modern, elegant, and versatile pieces to order, emphasizing customization and a balance of minimalism and warmth. Rewire is recommended by Liu for Italian-style modern and vintage lighting, featuring designer pieces and original 20th-century fixtures, including current productions from iconic designers. Urban Archaeology offers a blend of vintage and antique-inspired new fixtures, born from architectural salvage, with options for customization. Roll & Hill is suggested for luxury lighting and statement pieces, featuring handcrafted designs by independent American designers like Jason Miller and Lindsey Adelman. Chairish is a go-to for its diverse selection of antique, vintage, and new furnishings, including unique light fixtures such as Murano glass chandeliers and Art Deco lamps. Ralph Lauren's home collection provides classic, well-made lighting, often inspired by historical elements, blending traditional and modern aesthetics. Allied Maker focuses on quality materials and expert craftsmanship, producing inventive modern lighting in Long Island, New York. Oomph Home stands out for its vibrant, colorful lighting options, offering coastal-style lanterns in bold hues. Mitzi provides an eclectic mix of beautiful and accessible lighting, from table lamps to ceiling lights, with a focus on aesthetics and free lighting consultations. Schoolhouse, based in Portland, is praised for its versatile lighting with bold color options, especially suitable for renovating older homes. RTO Lighting, founded by Robert True Ogden, creates sculptural, architectural-grade lighting handcrafted in Philadelphia. Lastly, Anthropologie's home decor collection offers eclectic and unique lighting fixtures, often featuring collaborations with designers, with frequently updated offerings. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LightingStores #DesignerRecommendations #OnlineShopping #LuxuryLighting #VintageLighting #ModernLighting #CustomLighting

Lina's Interiors, a family-owned business established in 1953, has a long-standing tradition of offering home décor, antiques, and unique gifts. Originally founded in Greenville by Lina, an interior designer, the business was a full-service design shop with an onsite workroom. Patty Gibbs, Lina's daughter, now owns the store, which relocated to Leland, Mississippi, about a year and a half ago. Betty Lewis, Lina's granddaughter and Patty's daughter, has been involved with the business for most of her life, starting by working after school. Cheryl Hollis has been with Lina's since 2004, demonstrating a deep commitment to the establishment alongside Gibbs and Lewis. The business has evolved from a comprehensive interior design firm to primarily a retail showroom. While it continues to offer antiques, reflecting Lina's initial passion, it has expanded its inventory to include a variety of home décor items and distinctive gifts. The store also operates a wholesale division, importing Italian tassels and trim to sell to interior designers and shops nationwide, a testament to its diversified business model. Lina's Interiors is known for its unique gift selection, with Patty Gibbs often hand-designing pieces, such as transforming antique candlesticks into exquisite lamps. The product range includes furniture, lamps, and picture frames, all chosen to be special and appealing to customers. A core value of Lina's Interiors is exceptional customer service, a point of pride for the small, family-owned establishment. They differentiate themselves from chain stores by focusing on personalized attention and unique offerings. The staff, including Betty Lewis and Cheryl Hollis, express great satisfaction in helping customers find the perfect item for their homes or the ideal gift for loved ones. They highlight the joy of customer feedback, especially when clients share how well a purchased piece fits into their home or how appreciated a gift was. The business also boasts a strong generational connection within the Mississippi Delta community, serving customers who are often the children or grandchildren of those who shopped with Lina herself. This enduring relationship with their clientele underscores the special nature of Lina's Interiors and its role in the community. #LinasInteriors #HomeDecor #Antiques #InteriorDesign #FamilyBusiness #MississippiDelta #RetailShowroom #UniqueGifts #CustomerService

This blog post details the author's interior design inspiration drawn from a recent stay at the Lafayette Hotel in San Diego. The author highlights the hotel's maximalist and retro aesthetic, particularly focusing on a fringed, Victorian-inspired table lamp in their guest room. This lamp, featuring a damask-style bird and botanical print with beaded fringe, served as a key piece of inspiration. The article describes the hotel's overall ambiance, noting its history as 'Imig Manor' and its recent $31 million renovation, which reintroduced a sense of swank. The lobby's maximalist design, characterized by velvet curtain swags, checkerboard floors, and oversized tiger-striped chairs with burgundy bullion fringe, is also mentioned as contributing to the hotel's unique character. The author's personal quest to find a similar lamp for their own home led them to the 'Modern Love Lamp' from Urban Outfitters. This lamp is presented as a more adaptable and stylish alternative, featuring more tassels and fringe, suitable for a less maximalist space. The article also provides details about the Urban Outfitters lamp, including its dome shade, antique silhouette, and available color options like gold and leopard print. The author considers various placements for this lamp in their own New York apartment, such as a bar cart or desk, emphasizing its ability to provide a moody glow. Furthermore, the article suggests several other fringed and vintage-style lamp alternatives available from retailers like Etsy and Wayfair. These recommendations include the 'RynlightArt Zuikaku Table Lamp' with beaded strands and crane motifs, the 'TOV Furniture Fringe Table Lamp' described as a 'maximalist fever dream' with a giant tassel design, and 'The Icon Table Lamp: Leopard Edition' from Anthropologie, featuring a leopard base, gold finish, and deep green velvet shade. The author frames these choices within a broader trend of drawing interior design inspiration from hospitality spaces like hotels, bars, and restaurants, suggesting that such experiences offer accessible and affordable ways to elevate home decor. The piece concludes with the author's ongoing interest in lighting trends, mentioning a previous article on 'orb' lights. Julia Demer, the Style Editor at Homes & Gardens, authored the post, sharing her perspective on integrating fashion and interiors. #InteriorDesign #LafayetteHotel #VintageLamps #HomeDecor #FringeLamps #MaximalistStyle #RetroAesthetic #LightingTrends #UrbanOutfitters #DesignInspiration

This article highlights seven prominent lighting stores and showrooms in the Boston area, offering a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking to enhance their living spaces with new light fixtures. Each establishment provides distinct services and product ranges, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. Wolfers, established in 1931, offers a contemporary approach to lighting design. They provide free one-hour consultations, focusing on a space's architecture, lighting needs, and sustainability. Their Waltham showroom features 'lighting labs' categorized by style, including a 'Green Zone' dedicated to energy-efficient fixtures. Patti Bros, a third-generation lighting business, specializes in a wide array of interior and exterior fixtures, from brass bell jars for kitchen islands to chandeliers for living rooms. They also provide restoration, repair, and refinishing services, addressing various lighting challenges for their clientele. Genuine Antique Lighting caters to those desiring vintage aesthetics, boasting over 500 fixtures from 1850 to 1950. Operating by appointment only from their South End showroom and workshop, they acquire antique chandeliers, pendants, and flush mounts, meticulously restoring them with modern electrical standards while preserving their original detailing and patina. Neena’s Lighting, a decades-old company, maintains three Boston-area showrooms showcasing designs from approximately 100 high-end designers like Arteriors and Zaneen. Their knowledgeable staff assists both customers and interior designers in selecting modern and transitional styles. A new Brookline location is anticipated following the closure of their Coolidge Corner store due to a fire. Lucía Lighting & Design emphasizes personalized service within its 8,000-square-foot showroom. Customers can schedule one-on-one appointments with consultants for guidance on lighting plans, product selection, and delivery coordination. The showroom also features handcrafted, locally-made furniture, decor, and accessories. Chimera, situated in a Fort Point loft, presents a collection of modern, transitional, and traditional lighting brands such as Artemide and Flos. Beyond decorative pieces, they offer specialized lighting solutions including track lighting, under-cabinet lighting, recessed lighting, exterior fixtures, and ceiling fans. Yale Appliance + Lighting, with a history dating back to 1923, prides itself on its experienced sales team, whose members average seven years of service. They guide customers through a selection of over 3,000 fixtures, ensuring a match for every need. The company guarantees two-hour delivery windows and offers repair assistance from service technicians within 24 hours, ensuring comprehensive support for their customers' lighting investments. #LightFixtures #HomeLighting #BostonHomeDesign #LightingShowrooms #InteriorDesign #AntiqueLighting #EnergyEfficientLighting

In early 2020, Julie Chung and Kent Yu, cofounders of the hair-tool brand T3, and their three children faced increasing space constraints in their 4,000-square-foot Spanish-style home in the Pacific Palisades due to the pandemic's stay-at-home era. Despite having no initial plans to move, a nearby 11,000-square-foot spec house, previously deemed too large, began to look appealing. They purchased the newly completed property and enlisted interior designer Sierra Fox of Studio Mtn to personalize it and counteract its 'spec house' feel. The primary goal was to 'de-spec' the home and introduce warmth, as the house was originally painted entirely in white. Fox aimed to make the expansive spaces feel inviting rather than cavernous, addressing common issues with non-custom homes where certain areas might go unused. One significant change involved removing a prominent bar between two living spaces on the first floor, which, though central, did not align with the family's lifestyle. It was replaced with a piano, played by all three children. The formal living room was transformed with vintage Kagan sofas, providing comfortable seating that encouraged use, a departure from their previous home's rigid furniture. The design ethos was inspired by nature, but with a refined, old-world element, while maintaining practicality, ensuring the house wasn't a 'museum.' A standout feature is an 18-foot oak-leaf chandelier crafted by Cox London, conceived by Chung as a 'giant upside-down tree' in place of a traditional crystal foyer chandelier. This piece involved a nine-month design and construction process, including extensive sampling for leaf colors and a life-size paper mockup to ensure precise placement along the staircase. Attention to detail extended to more subtle elements, such as a faint hand-painted mural in the dining room, which took an artist three weeks to complete. This abstract and subtle mural reveals its depth upon closer inspection. Bathroom design was also crucial for the couple, given their background with T3. A previously all-white bathroom with black details was warmed up with brass fixtures, a vintage mirror, wallpaper, and a rose marble vanity. The office space, where Yu spends considerable time, was designed to be more engaging than just a desk and computer. The family's favorite spot, however, is the finished basement, which is not visible from the main living areas. Initially an empty white shell, it was transformed into a cozy library, wine cellar, and movie room. Inspired by a photo of a black bookcase, the space was designed with dark, chocolate brown tones, curved furniture, and rich textures. The basement also includes sofas that convert into twin-size beds, ideal for sleepovers. Chung initially had reservations about the dark color palette but was convinced once the wallpaper was installed, appreciating the distinct ambiance it created, making it feel like an escape within their own home. #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHome #PacificPalisades #Chandelier #CustomDesign #FamilyHome #SierraFox #SpecHouseRenovation

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

Award-winning photographer Steven Laxton undertook a significant DIY renovation of his three-story early 20th-century home in Cypress Hills, Brooklyn, after realizing it was not as move-in ready as he initially believed when he purchased it in 2016. The extensive renovation, much of which was completed during the 2020 lockdown, included replacing floorboards, switching out doors with salvaged antique ones, and paving the back garden. A major focus of the project involved stripping layers of paint from historical woodwork, such as the pier mirror and staircase, to restore them to their natural wood finish. Laxton chose the Cypress Hills location due to its proximity to Highland Park, a 643-acre green space, which offers park views from some rooms and is a significant amenity for him. Despite the four-bedroom, 3.5-bath house being larger than he needs as a single occupant, he has enjoyed decorating the various rooms with his distinct arty style, occasionally renting them out for additional income. His design approach emphasizes bold colors, unique vintage finds, and quirky lighting elements. In the entry foyer, Laxton painstakingly removed multiple layers of paint from a carved door to reveal the natural wood. He is an enthusiastic collector of period lighting and furniture, often sourcing pieces online and in person. For example, a High Victorian piece is featured in the entry foyer. His philosophy is to acquire "interesting things that are solid and well made and have some personality to them." The parlor level of the house was already partially open-plan, with wide openings between rooms and a removed wall separating the kitchen and dining area. The living room blends contemporary and vintage items, featuring a sofa from CB2, artwork by Bryan James, and a chandelier from Restoration Hardware. Mid-century reissues, such as a Noguchi coffee table and a Mies van der Rohe tubular steel chair, are also present, alongside a distinctive brass lamp found on Facebook Marketplace. In the kitchen, Laxton updated the backsplash, faucet, and cabinet hardware. As a photographer, he emphasizes layered lighting, preferring not to use the existing recessed ceiling lights, stating that "Lighting can completely change a space." Chandeliers are used as sculptural elements throughout the home. The artwork displayed is a mix of his own creations, friends' work, and pieces he has acquired. An existing sunroom off the back of the house features a 1950s dinette set, one of the few items Laxton brought from his previous apartment, offering a view of greenery. The powder room on the parlor floor is decorated with thrifted vintage portraits, chosen purely for their whimsical appeal. Upstairs, each bedroom and a reading room has a unique character, achieved through bold wallpaper, deep paint colors, vibrant bed linens, and additional vintage lighting. Laxton completely renovated the top-floor bathroom, combining vintage and new fixtures. A red bedroom on the lower level, described as "a world unto itself," showcases his incremental design process. This room includes two early 1960s George Mulhauser lounge chairs, sourced from different states, and vintage lamps found online. A 19th-century Chinese carved wood piece serves as a distinctive wall decoration. The backyard, originally just dirt, was transformed by Laxton with laid pavers, a 6-foot-high privacy fence made of horizontal wood slats, and a picnic table constructed from leftover wood. He considers this outdoor space a valuable investment, utilizing it for outdoor dining and entertaining throughout the summer months. The project highlights Laxton's hands-on approach to home renovation and decoration, reflecting his personal style through a curated collection of vintage and contemporary elements. #CypressHills #HomeRenovation #DIYDesign #VintageStyle #InteriorDesign #BrooklynHome #SalvagedItems #LayeredLighting #StevenLaxton