ILEX Architectural Lighting is toasting Michael Graves & Associates’ 50th anniversary, unveiling three new additions by the beloved American architect and designer to its Portfolio Collection. Like Graves, the new lights have a larger t-an-life presence. While they each have their own distinctive styles, the new Table Top, Theia and Fete lights all take projects to new heights. They also boast elegant features in unexpected proportions and a variety of finishes and configurations to suit a range of applications.
Of his collection with ILEX, Michael Graves has this to say: “I was inspired to create this group of lights for ILEX because I needed them for my own projects. I am working on several buildings that call for decorative lighting fixtures that also provide exceptional light. In a recent renovation project, the original fixtures specified were too small and too dim. The client wanted larger fixtures with brighter light and ‘more sparkle.’ It was with this in mind – brighter light and more sparkle – that I started to draw options for ILEX.”
Says ILEX president Alan Indursky, “Graves’ new designs deliver functionality without sacrificing the character and style that is emblematic of his genius work. We are privileged to have collaborated with one of the greatest architecture and design talents of our time.”
The new designs complement and add depth to ILEX’s range. In detail, they are:
TABLE TOP
Graves’ Table Top sconce is the classic table light, elevated – in both the aesthetic and literal sense of the word. An haute twist on the typical tabletop design, it features a flared, blown-glass shade and cylindrical stepped stem perched atop an integrated wall-mounted ledge. The metal surface under the ledge is ornamented with a subtle curl. The soft square-edged shade, which houses the LED source, is a stunning element, formed out of single cast glass. Ideal for hospitality environments and ADA compliant, the Shiny Opal glass diffuser is attractively contrasted by Architectural Bronze, Antique Brass, Brushed Nickel or Polished Nickel finish options. Halogen light source is also available.
THEIA
For sophistication on a theatrical scale, the stately Theia pendant is a smart solution. A reference to the Greek mythological term for “goddess,” Theia has a captivating quality. Its stunning, large-format shades are composed of the finest blown glass, which is virtually free from imperfections. Theia is available in two configurations: a neat row of three, or a square composition of four of the shades suspended from metal mounting. While Theia nods to a traditional aesthetic, its dramatic proportions and industrial details make for an avant-garde light suitable for a wide range of settings. Mounting finish options include Architectural Bronze, Antique Brass, Brushed and Polished Nickel, or Satin Brass. Incandescent light source comes standard. Fluorescent is also available.
FETE
This festive pendant is composed of a drum-shaped acrylic diffuser ensconced in smooth tubular columns that elegantly encircle the light. At once classic and modern, Fete’s diffuser is conveniently available in both a shiny or matte finish to suit the needs of a variety of projects. Metal finish options include Architectural bronze, Antique Brass, Brushed and Polished Nickel, Polished Brass and Nickel, as well as Satin Brass. Incandescent light source comes standard. Fluorescent and LED options are also available.
NOT TO MENTION: GALA
The trio of new offerings has arrived just as Graves’ first design for ILEX, the Gala fixture, makes its introduction in the “Past as Prologue” Michael Graves exhibit at the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, New Jersey, from Oct.18 to Apr. 5. The light previewed in May and features 10 Shiny Opal glass cylinders suspended from a raised fixture, it emphasizes Graves’ contemporary adaptation of the quintessential chandelier. Finish options include Architectural Bronze, Brushed Nickel, Polished Nickel and Antique Brass; lamping options are Incandescent and Fluorescent. According to the exhibit, “it will reflect the breadth of Graves’ accomplishments at every scale.” ILEX is honored its products are among the exceptional designs in his prolific body of work.
ALL ABOUT ILEX
ILEX is an American lighting manufacturer based in Taunton, MA, that creates architectural lighting solutions for commercial, hospitality and high-end residential spaces. Founded in 2000 as a subsidiary of the 65-year-old lighting brand Norwell, ILEX is committed to nurturing American design and production. The company employs an experienced staff of artisans who have over 100 years of expertise in the lighting industry, collectively.
For more information, visit http://www.ilexlight.com/
ALL ABOUT MICHAEL GRAVES
Michael Graves is an award-winning, American architect and industrial designer who is credited with broadening the role of architects and raising public interest in good design. In addition to his reputation as an innovative architect and a member of the New York Five, Graves is a prolific product designer whose renowned whistling-bird teapot for Alessi has sold more than 1 million units since its introduction in 1985. He currently directs Michael Graves & Associates and Michael Graves Design.
For more information, visit http://www.michaelgraves.com/