Hometown: New Bern, North Carolina
What drew you to lighting design? How did you get your start? My interest in lighting really started not with design but with finishing techniques. I had always dabbled in furniture restoration, so I was already somewhat familiar with different methods of refinishing. When I happened upon a gorgeous pair of old lamps at the Raleigh flea market, I was hooked – and not in a small way. I purchased and deconstructed hundreds of lamps, salvaged the parts, and redesigned with a modern twist. When my employer decided to relocate their sales offices to the Toronto headquarters, my hobby became my new career.
Can you tell me about your design process? First and foremost, I want artful and unique pieces. My early pieces didn’t even have glass, but now that is where the design process really begins. The glass dictates so much about the finished design. There is a “feel” to vintage glass that can’t be replicated in new pieces and is what I think sets my designs apart from other lighting companies.
How would you describe your aesthetic? Vintage feel with a modern vibe.
How does living in Raleigh affect your aesthetic? I think Raleigh’s proximity to High Point has greatly impacted my aesthetic. Showing at the High Point market gets my product in front of designers from all over the country.
Do you have a favorite design? Probably the Etta. I like the modern feel.
Who are your favorite designers? I primarily work directly with designers on custom pieces. Julia Buckingham has done lots of really fun projects that required special lighting. I have designed a number of pieces for Tula Summerfield here in Raleigh and Lisa Mende in Charlotte. And most recently, and a new experience for me, is working with DJF builders. I am so thrilled to be working with a builder who recognizes the importance of art lighting in their designs.
What’s next for you? I am working on getting my shop off Whitaker Mill set up to serve as a second studio and first stop to look at finished inventory. I plan to keep thirty or so pieces in this location when it is fully set up.