If you’re a fan of elegant and timeless lighting designs, then you’ll likely appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of Apparatus Lighting. This New York-based lighting company has gained a cult following for their unique and luxurious pieces that blend sculptural form with functional lighting. However, as much as we may admire their designs, not everyone can afford to invest in an authentic Apparatus Lighting fixture.
That’s where Apparatus Lighting Replica comes in. This brand is dedicated to creating faithful reproductions of Apparatus Lighting’s most popular designs, at a more accessible price point. But are these replicas worth your investment? Let’s take a closer look.
The Story of Apparatus Lighting
First, a little background on the company that inspired the replica brand. Apparatus Lighting was founded in 2012 by Gabriel Hendifar and Jeremy Anderson. The duo had backgrounds in fashion design and set design, respectively, but shared a love for art and interiors.
After collaborating on a lighting installation for Anderson’s loft, they realized they had a knack for creating beautiful lighting designs that people wanted to own. The result was Apparatus Lighting, which quickly gained a reputation for their expert use of materials like brass, glass, porcelain, and resin to create unique fixtures with a vintage-inspired aesthetic.
Today, Apparatus Lighting has a loyal following of designers, architects, and homeowners who appreciate their attention to detail and commitment to quality. Their pieces are sold in high-end design showrooms worldwide, and they’ve collaborated with notable brands like Hermès, Burberry, and Fendi.
The Appeal of Apparatus Lighting
So, what makes Apparatus Lighting so special? One key factor is their use of materials. Many of their fixtures incorporate antique or vintage elements, such as Murano glass or salvaged hardware, which gives each piece a unique character.
Additionally, their designs often incorporate sculptural forms that go beyond a typical light fixture. They might resemble a branch, a carousel, or a constellation, blurring the line between lighting and art. This makes them an ideal choice for designers and homeowners who want to make a statement with their lighting.
Price Point
Of course, this level of craftsmanship and uniqueness comes at a price. Apparatus Lighting fixtures are undeniably expensive, with prices ranging from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the piece. For many people, this is simply out of reach.
Enter Apparatus Lighting Replica. This brand, which began in 2015, created exact replicas of some of Apparatus Lighting’s most popular designs, using less expensive materials such as acrylic and aluminum. They also simplified some of the more complex designs, making them easier to manufacture and therefore more affordable.
Quality and Craftsmanship
So, how do these replicas compare to the real thing? For starters, it’s worth noting that they’re not authorized by Apparatus Lighting and are therefore not official products. However, many people who have purchased them report that they’re impressed with the level of quality and craftsmanship.
The most common feedback is that the replicas look just as stunning as the originals, with the same attention to detail and sculptural form. However, there are some differences in terms of materials and finish. For example, the acrylic used in place of glass may not have the same level of clarity, or the aluminum may lack the weight and warmth of brass.
That being said, many people are happy to compromise on these details for a more affordable price tag. It’s also worth noting that Apparatus Lighting Replica offers a wider range of finish options than Apparatus Lighting, which typically sticks to a few select metal and glass combinations.
If you’re a die-hard fan of Apparatus Lighting and have the budget to invest in an authentic piece, then go for it. There’s no denying the beauty and craftsmanship of their designs.
However, if the cost is prohibitive, or you simply want to enjoy the look of an Apparatus Lighting fixture without breaking the bank, then the replica brand is worth considering. Just keep in mind that there are some tradeoffs in terms of materials and finish, but overall, the replicas do an impressive job of capturing the essence of Apparatus Lighting’s designs.
In short, whether you go for the real thing or the replica, you’ll be investing in a piece of lighting design history that’s sure to enhance any space.
