Light Conversation

Chandeliers & Crystal Rainbows 0

Late afternoon in the chandelier showroom is so beautiful.  The strong rays of the Sun concentrate to force their way through the crystals that are hanging around on the chandeliers.  That light then bends on the way out through a different facet of the crystal and the result is a rainbow I can almost touch.

Who wouldn't love working in this?  These photos were taken in our gorgeous "Strass" room where the Swarovski crystals, combined with sun beams, create the most intense refraction. 

A magical sight for any day.

Restoration Files - Lovely Leaves 0

This crystal chandelier came to us in good condition. We dismantled it, cleaned and rewired it.  

Note the lovely leaves and blown crystal bells. 

Lighting the Victorian Home 0

The lovely Victorian Homes magazine was kind enough to use us as an expert reference in a recent editorial.  If you love Victorian decor, make sure to check  out the Fall 2017 issue for helpful tips from us and other lighting experts. 

Given that Victorian decor can be on the heavier, more ornate side, the right kind of lighting is important.

Here are some of our suggestions:

1. Layer your lighting. A multi-light center chandelier gives gorgeous ambient lighting and accentuates your period decor at the same time.  Continue with as many floor and table lamps as your Victorian room can handle.  Add a small accent lamps in the Tiffany style to bookshelves and desks to brighten corners. Use an electric candle stick or candelabra to add more lamp, yet look different than a lamp. 

2. Look for white fabric on the interior of lamp shades. Because so many Victorian style lamp shades are made of heavy, layered, or printed fabrics, a light colored lining will help brighten the effect.

3. Add wall sconces. Not only are wall sconces an additional layer of light, but a gas reproduction adds authenticity to the Victorian decor. 

For more Victorian decorating ideas, follow Victorian Homes.

Snowflakes 0

There are many ways that crystal compares to ice. We have several chandeliers named for the similarity - the Ice Palace, the Winterking, and the Winterfire, and these name conjure the reflective and brilliant nature of snow and ice.

They say each snowflake is different - but they all bear a resemblance to the unique view underneath a chandelier.  

Check out these images of some of our chandeliers from directly below:

Restoration Files - Flowers 0

This pretty chandelier needed quite a bit of rejuvenation.  We completely dismantled it and cleaned every aspect - including restringing the beads and flowers.  

Before:

Richie cleaning and repairing the body of the chandelier:

Work on the beading and flowers:

And done!

Everyone did a great job on this!

Another Gorgeous Home 0

Flipping through an issue of a favorite, Old House Interiors, Early Homes, we saw this:

Photos by Bridley + Graves.  Article by Patricia Poore

That is one of our lovely creations - custom designed with the customer.  

Read the article here.  Or, check out The Old House website for fabulous photos and product information. It is a must for anyone interested in old homes. www.oldhouseonline.com.