Global Lighting’s European Designs

For Larry Lazin, the idea to import European fixtures to the U.S. began in the early 1990s, on a trip to London with his mom. The president and CEO of Global Lighting—and an acclaimed lighting designer himself—was browsing in the Conran Shop, Terence Conran’s temple to contemporary design, when a display of Uccello’s Greek fisherman pendant lamps caught his eye. Struck by the fixtures’ simple yet sophisticated design, Lazin knew that there would be a market for them in North America. So, he imported them, used his skills to modify their electrical components to meet U.S. standards, and enlisted a network of representatives to distribute them.

The pieces were a hit, confirming Lazin’s belief that designers and architects were looking for more refined lighting styles than were currently available in the States.

Lazin began exploring additional European boutique brands to import, growing the  collection of decorative and architectural options. Today, more than two decades later, Global Lighting is still going strong, offering fixtures from six countries and ten brands: Croatia (Grupa), Denmark (Bolia, Tom Rossau), Italy (Bottega Intreccio), The Netherlands (Ay illuminate, Jacco Maris, By Marc de Groot), Norway (Northern), and Sweden (Pholc, Zero Interior).

Sustainability is integral to manufacturers in the portfolio. Ay Illuminate and Bottega Intreccio, for example, utilize upcycled and locally sourced materials, while Tom Rossau and Zero Interiors employ energy-efficient technologies and environmentally responsible production methods.

Global Lighting does not design any light products in-house, instead focusing solely on distribution. At the company’s operations center in Yonkers, N.Y.,  technicians rewire each high-quality fixture to comply with UL standards and then inspect it to ensure it is worthy of the warranty Global Lighting provides.

Unlike larger lighting distributors, Global Lighting cultivates relationships with manufacturers specializing in minimalistic design, natural materials, and artisanal manufacturing. This approach has helped the company build its reputation as a premier destination for distinctive lighting solutions that seamlessly integrate innovation with timeless aesthetics. Explains CEO Lazin, “By championing these smaller-scale European brands, Global Lighting fosters a deeper appreciation for the artistry and individuality inherent in each lighting fixture showcased.”