Advice on using reclaimed lighting in the modern home

Chris Miller, co-founder and director of Skinflint, gives tips on buying and installing salvaged lighting

With more than two decades’ experience in the lighting industry, Skinflint’s mission is to bring new life to old vintage lights – and stop them going to landfill. Their reclaimed and restored original lights are in homes, restaurants, shops and hotels around the world.

Why should I choose reclaimed lighting over new? 

Buying reclaimed isn’t just about sustainability, it’s an investment in preserving, protecting and celebrating the heritage – and uniquely worn aesthetic – of each vintage piece. Vintage lights come with real character, often featuring original, authentic details such as maker’s marks and interesting storied patinas that only come with age, care and repair.

When looking to install reclaimed lighting, what should be considered initially? 

Take time to study the different styles and types available, as well as classic designs and lighting brands (at Skinflint we research and provide information on each product on our website). Where do you intend to put the light and what purpose will it serve? Planning ahead will make sure your light is functional as well as complementing your interior.

If lighting has been salvaged from a building and is very old, might it be dangerous? 

In its initial salvaged form, yes. We’ve all heard stories of people purchasing vintage desk lights at car-boot sales and then plugging them in only to blow the circuits at home! That’s where we come in. Buying from a reputable company is always the safest and easiest option.

How do I know if they have been restored to modern standards?

When buying a salvaged light, always check that it has gone through rigorous testing to ensure safety and functionality. Look for LIA (Lighting Industry Association) approved dealers, in-date PAT certifications, and if the dealer offers a guarantee (we offer a lifetime on all of ours).

Will an electrician need to install it? 

As with any light, always get a qualified electrician to review, rewire and install. Never attempt to do this yourself!

Do modern bulbs work in vintage lighting?

At Skinflint all of our lights are rewired and updated with the latest technology ready to accept LED dimmable bulbs, which are extremely efficient and environmentally friendly. There are some great vintage-style ‘filament’ LEDs on the market which offer the same traditional effect.

Do industrial reclaimed lights work in a home environment? 

Most definitely. Provided they’ve been professionally adapted for domestic use they make ideal task lights for desks, kitchen counters, armchairs or bedside tables. Over the years we’ve salvaged a wide variety of machinist lights that once lit up the benches of factory workers, through to medical UV and heat therapy lamps once used to treat ailments, and even operating-theatre lights from hospitals!

Any styling ideas?

Vintage lights are incredibly versatile and we love seeing the inventive ways our clients and interior designers incorporate them into a wide range of schemes. Cut-glassware and opalines are an elegant choice and help create ambience – think entranceways and lounges, or suspended in rows above dining tables and kitchen islands. Large industrial lights also work well here as a statement piece. Alternatively, bulkheads are great for creating impact in small spaces or if your ceilings are low.

WORDS: AMY BRATLEY