Last Indulgence

Esteracae by Schonbek, starting at $7,015, available at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, fergusonshowrooms. com and Lighting Inc., lightinginconline.com

ELECTRIC LIGHT

Crystal chandeliers lend illuminated beauty to contemporary spaces

MANY ASSOCIATE THE GRANDEUR OF CRYSTAL

chandeliers with notions of a traditional aesthetic. However, like various timeless trends, chandeliers have evolved into the world of contemporary design. Of course, New Orleans has its share of historic, traditional homes, but mixing in contemporary pieces allows for a perfect balance of design paradigms. Plattsburgh, New York-based Schonbek — a beloved 150-year-old lighting company — released its new Iconics Collection this summer, which includes the Esteracae (reminiscent of the rounded midcentury modern sputnik chandelier) in a new black finish. “The flowering, crystal blooms that erupt across the spherical form is a glam interpretation of a trend that [we] like to call natural elements,” says Shea Bowers, showroom manager at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery. “This light fixture is a stunning work of art that perfectly mixes modern and traditional elements. When you add a beautiful chandelier, it becomes a statement piece.”