Sonneman Debuts at Lighting by Gregory NYC Showroom
Robert Sonneman, a pioneer of modern lighting, was the host of Lighting by Gregory’s first Designer Night on Thursday, June 4.
Influenced by modernist movements of the 20th Century, Sonneman began designing lighting in the 1960s that combined form and function. Orbiter, which happens to be one of Sonneman’s first designs, is a solid example of how form and function come together to create a functional art form.
The collection is also formed around the idea that lighting is "a marriage of art and commerce," explains Sonneman. As a designer, Sonneman understands the importance of offering an enduring product, a sentiment he described to the media, photographers and guests who were among the first to view his display yesterday evening at Lighting by Gregory. Sonneman presents only the highest quality products to his customers.
Evolving from the modernist platform, Sonneman recognized the need for ornamental elements, especially in the American industry. While maintaining the notion that there is an elegance in simplicity and that quality prevails, Sonneman began incorporating a decorative angle in his lighting.
"I try to use ornamental detail in a very subtle and sparing way," says Sonneman. "I use shape, articulation, scale and geometric details to gratify the emotional need to attach beauty to decoration. I always try to simplify and to touch the object with a light hand."
Taking a cue from the 1930s Shanghai Deco period, Sonneman’s Shanghai light fixture is considered to be the most decorative of his designs.
Sonneman is continually challenging the design spectrum and exploring architectural influences and concludes that his best design "is the next one."
Lighting by Gregory—For 25 years Lighting by Gregory has been dedicated to providing the public and contractors the highest quality lighting. One of the largest lighting and ceiling fan retailers in New York, Lighting by Gregory offers hundreds of thousands of modern and contemporary lighting and products throughout its 7,500-square-foot showroom.
—Lauren Varga & Sarah Binder
