lesson 3

VINTAGE LIGHTING AND HOW IT ADDS CHARACTER TO A SPACE

here, we went with a mid-century modern tronchi 72" diameter crystal chandelier. the size grounds the space and creates a more intimate feeling, visually giving the living space a lower ceiling. the five layers of tronchi glass tubes really adds a touch of elegance to the more modern space we designed. it's the big throw back in the space. (design by crystal sinclair designs | photo by seth caplan)

i'm not a big new years resolution kind of gal but i do have a suggestion - when purchasing a light fixture, whether that be a chandelier, sconce, pendant, table lamp, or floor lamp, please consider going vintage. vintage pieces add so much character to a space. something about the design and fabrication of vintage pieces, lights in particular, just isn't the same as they are today. so many things today are over produced and just lack that authenticity. i mean, just for example - a crystal chandelier from 1960 versus one made today - the difference is huge. a lot of light fixtures today look cold, almost sterile, when compared to an older one, at least in my opinion. it's a combination of superior craftsmanship, historical character, and specific aesthetic qualities. the materials used were higher quality and more durable. this level of detailed work is often absent in contemporary, machine-made alternatives, that are sold to the masses today.

early crystal contained a higher percentage of lead oxide, which improves clarity and enhances the crystal's ability to refract light - think of the sparkling rainbow effect.

metals in vintage light fixtures, such as bronze or brass, develop a natural patina over time, which adds a warm, rich, and 'timeworn' character that enhances to their charm.

all of this contributes to a fixture that adds warmth and character to a space. vintage pieces aren't as easy to find, so not only is the light adding character, it adds a unique feel to your space, making your room more personal.

vintage lights come in all price ranges - i mean you could hit up a local thrift store and score something fabulous for under $100! that said, a lot of vintage pieces can cost tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. whether $100 or $100,000 it adds that charm!! besides local thrift or vintage shops, other great sources to find unique light fixtures are etsy, chairish, and 1st dibs.

furthermore, choosing a vintage fixture is an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new. vintage pieces can appreciate in value over time, making them a potential investment!

see how we incorporated vintage lights in our designed spaces below:

here, we found a vintage crystal chandelier to elevate the space! design by: crystal sinclair designs | photo by tim lenz

this cactus floor lamp (a personal fav of mine) adds a bit of whimsy to the space. it adds some fun lines and the wood brings a warm texture to the corner. (design by crystal sinclair designs | photo by adrian gaut)

this murano chandelier adds a bit of glamour and elegance to this primary bedroom. (design by crystal sinclair designs | photo by adrian gaut)

this long deco style murano glass chandelier adds so much character to this kitchen. it really adds a wonderful layer to the space. (design by crystal sinclair designs | photo by adrian gaut)

a classic mid-century modern pendant adds a nice aesthetic contrast to the entry space. (design by crystal sinclair designs | photo by tim lenz)

this 60's sconce, which i found at a local vintage store, is just the contrast or juxtaposition the room needed. the simplicity of the sconces (there's a second on the opposite side of the bed) really pairs well with the verdure tapestry above the bed. (design by crystal sinclair designs | photo by adrian gaut)

this floor lamp, found locally, is perhaps one of my favorite finds! it has SO much character and adds that unique charm and whimsy to the large space. (design by crystal sinclair designs | photo by tim lenz)

it took forever to find the right light fixture for this living room, but once i came across this polished chrome, tetris-like light, i knew it was the PERFECT addition to the space. it contributes to all the shapes in the room. (design by crystal sinclair designs | photo by tim lenz)

i hope this sheds some light (pun intended) on the perks of vintage fixtures! and, i hope you add one to your home in the coming year!!

wishing everyone a wonderful 2026!

yours truly -

cs