North Carolina’s Louise Gaskill transforms vintage items into what she calls “edged-up” modern lighting designs.
The artist & owner: Gaskill grew up in New Bern and graduated with a history degree from Meredith College in Raleigh.
After selling software for many years, she hit the refresh button on her career. With no formal training, Gaskill turned a hobby of collecting vintage components and deconstructing hundreds of old lamps into a full-time lighting business.
The company: Louise Gaskill Company started in 1999 in Raleigh, where a converted garage serves as her two-floor studio and storage area.
The goods: Lamp pairs with shades ($3,000), sconces ($950 and up) and chandeliers ($3,600 to $7,000). She uses primarily mid-century Murano, Blenko and German glass. Finishes are hand gilded in gold and silver. Parts include decorative brass casters from old chairs, lighting rod balls and components from old lamps.
Sources of parts: Flea markets, online sellers from across the country and Europe and the antique section at the High Point market, where Gaskill also has a showroom.
Inspiration: Midcentury pieces of glass in various shapes and vibrant colors. Each piece has a personality that is reflected in a new design, Gaskill said.
What’s popular: Chandeliers. Recently, the Lia chandelier. But the Etta is an overall favorite. Top colors include pink, blue, and neutrals.
Big break: A full-length feature article about Gaskill and her lighting in Traditional Home magazine in 2017. It gave her immediate exposure and credibility.
What’s new: Distinctive drapery hardware.
Where to buy: louisegaskill.com
Get social at: Louise Gaskill Company on facebook and louisegaskill on instragram.
