Why Vintage Hanging Lights Are a Must-Have
- Elegance
Vintage lighting takes you back in time, blending antique charm with modern utility. From industrial-inspired pendants to ornate chandeliers, these lights offer unmatched character for any room. - Versatility
Perfect for kitchens, dining rooms, or entryways, vintage hanging lights come in various shapes and finishes—think brushed brass, aged copper, or rustic wood accents. - Sustainability
By choosing vintage or vintage-style lights, you’re embracing sustainable design, repurposing beauty from the past, and reducing waste.
Popular Styles to Consider
- Industrial Design
Inspired by factory lighting, and celebrated through the currant-day stores such as Restoration Hardware, Industrial design combines art, engineering, and usability. Early industrial design was largely functional, emphasizing durability and manufacturability over aesthetics. - Spanish Revival Design
Spanish Revival design is inspired by Spanish colonial architecture in the Americas, especially during the early 20th century in California and Florida. This style is often connected with Mediterranean Design and its elements include Intricate, detailed ironwork creating a rustic and dramatic mood. - French Empire Design
French Empire design dates back to the early 19th century (1804–1815, during Napoleon Bonaparte’s reign in France). It was inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture and design. It’s ornamentation is symmetrical and refined, with bold geometric shapes and decorative motifs. French Empire is often mistaken for Victorian design style, as they are both visually regal and ornate in nature. The materials used for the French Empire Style are gilded bronze, crystal, mahogany.
Own an Original
One of the best reasons to choose a vintage hanging light over a cheap reproduction is that you’re acquiring a piece of history—something you can research and proudly share the story of at your next dinner party.
How to Style Your Vintage Lights
- Kitchen Islands: Install a row of industrial pendants for a functional yet fashionable touch.
- Dining Rooms: Opt for a grand chandelier to serve as a centerpiece.
- Living Rooms: Create a cozy reading nook with a soft-glow vintage hanging lamp.
- Hallways: Use smaller hanging lights to illuminate and elongate narrow spaces.
Where to Find the Best Vintage Hanging Lights
- Thrift Stores and Flea Markets: Hunt for authentic vintage pieces with stories to tell.
- Online Marketplaces: PlaceMakers Inc’s Online Showroom, Chairish or eBay for one-of-a-kind finds.
- Specialty Stores: Stores which specialize in architectural salvage, such as San Francisco Bay area based PlaceMakers Inc. in-store and online showroom.