It has been more than ten years since we launched KWD, and once of the most significant partnerships we have formed has been with The Montauk Lighting Co. Lighting is integral to our design principles of creating a joyful space where form and function combine to create a space that not only looks beautiful, it is fit for purpose. Pendant lights, wall sconces, floor lamps, tables lamps and outdoor lighting help to complete a home, and selecting quality lighting that defines our design provides the jewellery for every space.

What we have found so valuable, is that owners Marie and Gino have created a boutique lighting consultancy that aims to take the work out of finding the perfect feature lighting. They are our go-to destination for exploring and sourcing international, designer lighting, focusing on exceptional quality and iconic form.

KWD:  How the business evolved and what is your premise?

TMLC: Established in 2016, The Montauk Lighting Co. was born from a love of transitional American interiors. Our original range of lighting was inspired by the architecture of New York, and in particular, Long Island. For this reason, we are named after the peninsula’s easternmost point, Montauk.

The business exists to help our clients source the most beautiful and functional feature lighting. We see lighting as art, in the sense of the sculptural form it can take and also the quality of light. Lighting has the potential to enhance how we feel and can have a profound impact on the way we live. It enlivens homes and projects and is a critical part of any interior.

KWD:  What is your core ethos?

TMLC:  Our core ethos centres around cultivating, sharing and experiencing a sense of wonder. We appreciate the beauty in our products and our brand. We seek to share this and help clients find their own sense of wonder within our offering.

KWD:  Which lighting designers do you work with and why?

TMLC:  Our collection of feature lighting has evolved to represent a range of best-in-class global talent. From new designers and ateliers to established masters in the ilk of Ralph Lauren, Kelly Wearstler, AERIN and Tom Dixon, our partners share our exacting standards, commitment to quality, and appreciation for the transformational nature of light. We seek to source quality, unique pieces that are shaped to stand the test of time.

KWD:  Community is a key part of why we started The Montauk Lighting Co. Why is community so important to you?

TMLC: With a focus on the arts and culture sector, as well as medical research, The Montauk Lighting Co. has made significant contributions across the following organisations:

Starlight Children’s Foundation

The Lester Prize

Women & Infant’s Research Foundation

HeartKids

Telethon Kids Institute

Perth Design Week

West Australian Ballet

The Pirate Foundation – BrainChild Ball

Workpower

Mirabel Foundation

My Happy Space Movement

KWD: JOY is a beautiful partnership for you, how do you bring this cause to life?

TMLC: One of the most special community partnerships for Montauk is with The Lester Prize and Starlight Children’s Foundation through our JOY initiative – an art exhibition held every two years which, after two exhibitions, has now raised over $100,000. As part of the Lester Prize’s Youth Category, we’ve loved supporting portraiture-art workshops for children in the Starlight Express Room. It’s a program for patients at Perth Children’s Hospital to be immersed in art, under the guidance of professional artists and special guests, guaranteed to spark a smile. The opportunity to create and focus upon art during hospital stays can be transformative. At the very least it breaks up long and difficult days and at best, it can be a path to a new hobby, life-long passion and even a career. Something to focus on and to be proud of.

KWD: What do you love about Kate’s My Happy Space Movement initiative?

TMLC: We love what we do and feel very fortunate to do it. It’s about sharing the beauty and having a real impact on how homes and spaces make you feel. Contributing to KWD’s My Happy Space Movement allows us, in a small but meaningful way, to help children feel better about their lives. By extension, we are helping the whole family. We love partnering with KWD to help brighten the lives of families facing challenging situations and commend KWD on their brilliant initiative in this area.

Read more about JOY here: www.montauklightingco.com/pages/joy