Fine handcrafted custom lighting begins with a collaboration between the designer, the client and the craftsman. Only handcrafted lighting can be customized to meet your desires. Only the finest metals can be cut, bent, pierced and soldered to make your dream come to life.
We have prepared a Designers Guide to Custom lighting. Custom lighting can be a daunting challenge. You may have the vision and the inspiration but how do you make it a reality? We have the expertise. Copper Lantern Lighting is eager to assist you to build your custom lighting fixture.
Here are 5 easy steps to consider when planning to create a fine custom handcrafted light.
1 - Size
First you need to determine what size light will look best in the space while at the same time keeping the dimensions in proportion for the structural integrity and visual symmetry the fixture must have.
This can be the hardest decision to make. That is where our expertise comes in.
As in the photo our Custom Heritage Cage Lantern, Model No. H2748CL was chosen by us in collaboration with the designer to fill the large space of the two-story, barn conversion Great Room. High ceilings and exposed beams were a challenge for hanging the proper sized chandelier over a very large, 16’ long dining room table. Only custom lighting could provide what was needed along with what the designer envisioned. The custom Heritage Cage Lantern was enlarged, two of them were suspended from a long, cast-brass rod and balanced with the appropriate amount of chain. The light clusters were tiered to accommodate the size of the lantern. A total of 9 lights were added, 6 on the top tier and 3 on the bottom tier. All measurements were calculated to ensure the shape and design were not compromised. The finest solid copper, .30 gauge, was used and proper craftsmanship ensured the strength of the oversized structure. The copper was finished with a hand-applied chemical bath to achieve the rich patina of dark copper. The result is one of the finest examples of fine handcrafted custom designed lighting.
2 – Installation
The desired height for hanging your light fixture needs to be determined. Remember you do not want to obstruct your line of vision when hanging lanterns above a kitchen island for example. You also need to calculate the total space of the room so that the light fixture is architecturally and visually pleasing. You may need extra chain, mounting brackets or special backplates for installing your light at just the right height.
A general rule of thumb is the light fixture should be 3 feet from the bottom of the light to the top of the table or island. On two-story or vaulted ceiling rooms the light fixture can be pulled up higher to fill the open space in the ceiling while still providing a good lighting source for the island or table. Wall fixtures should be hung at or slightly above eye level.
3 – Lighting requirement
You will need to decide what your custom handcrafted light will be used for …
- Task lighting, such as over a kitchen island and table
- General illumination, such as in a great room or entranceway
- Ambiance, such as over a dining room table
- Security, such as front door wall lanterns, garage lights, path lights, post lights
Each use will require decisions on light cluster options, glass choices, and use of reflectors. You can also mix both general illumination and task lighting by recessing down lights hidden in the top hood of the lantern for task; and using decorative incandescent light clusters for general illumination. Both can be wired to be independently switched on or off depending on your needs.
4 – Lamping - Bulb/socket requirements
There are many choices available today.
Incandescent – traditional, and most pleasing to the eyes
LED - economical
Gas burner assembly – romantic but does not put out much light
Turtle friendly options – required in most coastal communities for outside lighting
5 – Make a statement
When you design your fine handcrafted custom light, you will naturally want that light to stand out, to become a conversation piece when guests come to visit. Compliments we have received from our clients is that their guests always ask them “Where did you get your lights?”. In fact, our logo “The Art of Lighting” stems from our belief that fine lighting is a work of art. Some lights can be the focal point of a room or simply compliment the rooms overall design. Fine custom handcrafted lights will undoubtedly be noticed, and in many instances dictate the theme of the décor. The metal finish selection and glass selection all dominate the design. Added features such as bails or grill work, ball finials or filigree work are icing on the cake.
When you need a fine handcrafted custom light for your next project be sure to call the experts at Copper Lantern Lighting. Many design applications require just the right lights. Many jobs have unique lighting needs. Together we can create the perfect light that meets all your needs.
