Trying to find retro light fixture... - Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum

remodbiz · 10-28-2008, 09:11 AM

Just joined up, hoping you guys can help out...
Trying to find some exterior wall-mount sconces. Homeowner insists on matching the existing ones, since this is a condo unit. Unit was built mid-80's and so far, searches have produced abundant options, but no matches. I can get a pic to post, but for now...its a brushed-brass, post-style wall mount with a clear glass round globe. I'd appreciate any ideas on specific searches or links. I've found nothing remotely close so far. Thanks!

SLSTech · 10-28-2008, 09:42 AM

First off welcome to CT
Next please post an Introduction & put your location in your profile

The location is helpful because someone might know about a salvage yard, or where most contractors got there lights from in said area.

Do you know the maker of the light, tried salvage yards around, local building yards (never know what they have stashed in the back), asked an electrician? If all else fails you can get most lights reproduced - however it will cost you.

thom · 10-28-2008, 04:02 PM

This probably isn't going to happen. Back in the 1980's most fixtures were still manufactured in the US. Now they are manufactured in China. Most manufacturers regularly re-design their fixtures.

SLSTech · 10-28-2008, 06:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by thom

This probably isn't going to happen. Back in the 1980's most fixtures were still manufactured in the US. Now they are manufactured in China. Most manufacturers regularly re-design their fixtures.

I understand that - but knowing the maker, model, etc... you might be able to get one from a salvage yard, find one buried in a backroom, check ebay, etc... without pics or the other info well then you truly are up a creek without said paddle

Kgmz · 10-28-2008, 08:03 PM

When you said retro in the title, I thouight you meant something really old. Then I would have suggested Rejuvenation in Portland, Oregon.

http://www.rejuvenation.com/

If I understand what you described right, you are talking about those cheap glass ball lights. Like I have seen on the cheaper condos and homes around here built in the 80's.

You will be better off talking them into replacing all the lights so they match, and they can get better looking lights.

MALCO.New.York · 10-28-2008, 08:09 PM

When I hear "Retro", I immediately think Art-Deco or the like.

Unfortunately, the 1980's were a period of Boringness and therefore a match will be hard to find.

Just steer the HO to something similar yet "prettier" !!! Test your Salesmanship skills here!

remodbiz · 10-28-2008, 10:42 PM

Sorry guys, seems my title was misleading. I guess "retro" could mean alot of things. By definition, its anything pertaining to styles of the past. Yes, they are the cheap glass globe style and un-attractive by my(any) standards.
I've tried selling the HO on something/anything else. Problem is, this is a gated condo community and "everything must match other units". I had to get approval from the ruling association, for the Anderson gliders, skylights and cedar siding I've replaced on this unit...rite down to the stain tints. I haven't had to run this particular fixture past the board yet, since it was damaged after the original project began, (tree removal guys dropped a limb), but I've been down this road before.
Seems ridiculous to have this crap reproduced, since any $25. wall mount at depot is more attractive. Ultimately,Its not my call and I'm on the clock, so whatever they want is fine by me.
Theres no markings/sticker to identify it. Its a cheap fixture but there's 12 of them on each unit, all in pairs at each entry; 4-sliders, front door and garage. There's no hiding it.
Thanks for the input, you've given me some ideas. If I spot a residence with the same light, they may get a new fixture in trade!

MALCO.New.York · 10-29-2008, 05:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by remodbiz

Sorry guys, seems my title was misleading. I guess "retro" could mean alot of things. By definition, its anything pertaining to styles of the past. Yes, they are the cheap glass globe style and un-attractive by my(any) standards.
I've tried selling the HO on something/anything else. Problem is, this is a gated condo community and "everything must match other units". I had to get approval from the ruling association, for the Anderson gliders, skylights and cedar siding I've replaced on this unit...rite down to the stain tints. I haven't had to run this particular fixture past the board yet, since it was damaged after the original project began, (tree removal guys dropped a limb), but I've been down this road before.
Seems ridiculous to have this crap reproduced, since any $25. wall mount at depot is more attractive. Ultimately,Its not my call and I'm on the clock, so whatever they want is fine by me.
Theres no markings/sticker to identify it. Its a cheap fixture but there's 12 of them on each unit, all in pairs at each entry; 4-sliders, front door and garage. There's no hiding it.
Thanks for the input, you've given me some ideas. If I spot a residence with the same light, they may get a new fixture in trade!

Check Progressive Lighting. (I have used on MANY occasion)

http://www.progressive-lighting.com/home.php?cat=4721

Or Luna. They have nearly 4000 Outdoor Sconces!!! (Never used)

http://www.lunawarehouse.com/room-ou...ng.html#paging

James Solecki · 11-24-2008, 07:30 AM

If you would post a photo of the fixture you are looking for, then you just never know... one of us Lighting Guys might be able to help you out.

Have a great day.

TimelessQuality · 11-24-2008, 08:08 AM

Try track down the sparky that wired it new. They may have records of where it came from or even have an 'extra' leftover in the warehouse...

I hear some of those electricians have pretty good memories

LNG24 · 11-25-2008, 09:36 PM

Post pics. I save most of the stuff I pull off a remodel and sell it on Craigslist.