LIFEINTHEBIGOLDHOUSE
Antique and vintage
interior lighting
Finding historic options
to fit each space
BY LAURI KRAMER SERAFIN
Antique lighting fixtures are one of the best
ways to enhance the interior character of a his-
toric home. The right combination of light-
ing fixture and space can be inspirational,
an important detail in historic home resto-
ration. When I started my first restoration proj-
ect, back in 1988, I was mystified as to what I
should select.
Often, original light fixtures in a home have
been removed, as new fixtures can be eas-
ily purchased and installed. I am fortunate to
have 20 original, matching wall sconces in
the Forsstrom House, as well as two original
chandeliers.
Other fixtures in the home were an odd
group, and most did not match the home’s era
and style. As a collector of antique lighting, I
quickly started to find and install restored fix-
tures, some found and others from my collec-
tion. I let friends also involved in restoration
know what I was seeking, and many friends’
lighting stashes were soon donated to the
house.
I found lighting perfect for the home’s
style and age, but many pieces were broken
or incomplete. My husband and I rewired and
restored simple fixtures. We even keep a stash
of lighting parts, though I often work with a
restoration professional. With lighting, safety
is a main concern. It’s worth working with a
a professional if you lack the skills to restore,
rewire or install.
When starting a lighting project, first con-
sider its goals. Are you looking for ambient or
task lighting? How much light do you need?
Antique lighting is typically more suited to
ambient or dimmer lighting. An antique ceil-
ing fixture may not give enough light and may
See Page 19
ABOVE: A Hollywood
Regency style chandelier,
as found after being
stored in a barn.
RIGHT: A restoration with
polychrome paint by
Kasey White. The restored
fixture is destined for a
small entryway of her
Victorian home.
Photos by
Lauri Kramer Serafin
18 // COASTWEEKEND.COM