Google+ House Revivals: Cool Retro Lamps and Light Fixtures!

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Cool Retro Lamps and Light Fixtures!

Vintage light fixtures and lamps are a great way to add a unique touch to a space.  They can be much more affordable, better quality, and more unique than lighting purchased new. This vintage globe shaped fixture is just a few dollars on Craigslist!


You could spend $1500 for a globe-shaped light fixture from Horchow.




Or you could spend $1100 on this globe shaped fixture from Currey and Company, but if spending four digits on a light fixture doesn't fit your budget, why not hit your local Craiglist or re-sale stores for something unique?


I'm not sure you can find a new equivalent fixture for this blue-green mid-century table lamp, but that's what makes it fun. You would be sure that your neighbors had nothing even remotely similar! I photographed this fixture at  local architectural salvage yard.


You can buy retro style table lamps at many different stores, but few are as well made as this apple green beauty.  The better lamps have weighted bases, meaning they won't easily tip over when the arm is extended. This beauty, from a local salvage yard, was HEAVY!


These mid-century wall sconces are the real deal. The metal shades are heavier and their curved shape in more elegant than some of the mid-century knock-offs available new.


Here are a couple more mid-century wall sconces. While the lines are clean, there is attention to detail -- especially on the gold and black sconces in the foreground.


If you are looking for a simple and inexpensive enclosed flush mount, look no further.  Building codes only permit enclosed fixtures in most closets (chandeliers are a no-no, as they can create a fire hazard), but sometimes it's hard to find an enclosed fixture that is both pretty and affordable. Your local architectural re-use store may have just what you need.


For $15 you can snatch up this cool retro wicker pendant fixture! It's on Craigslist right now. Wicker pendant fixtures are all the rage right now, and their retail prices reflect that. Adding a vintage wicker fixture to your space might be that perfect extra touch to give your room character.


Have you ever bought vintage lighting to use in your home? My husband and my electricians and my handyman are never surprised anymore, when I ask them to rewire or install a piece of vintage lighting!