09 April 2009

Out of this World: RW Russell Chandeliers, Part I

Many of you may recognize this image as a room by interior designer Thomas Pheasant which I included in the Neoclassical Moderne chapter of Regency Redux. Illuminating this airy blanc-de-blanc dining room is an RW Russell chandelier, whose creator I had the pleasure of meeting last week.


A sketch on a cocktail napkin


I must admit I've never paid too much attention to lighting fixtures - but that was all B.B.R. (Before Bob Russell). As any set designer knows, far from being an afterthought, lighting is EVERYTHING and just as much attention deserves to be paid to the fixture itself as to the light it casts.

For almost twenty years, Bob's other-worldly creations have been adding luster to some of the most beautiful rooms in the country. Part sculpture, part jewelry, all parts divine, every piece is unique and custom-made out of hand-forged metal, blown glass, and - on demand - Swarovski crystals at his workshop in Williamsburg.

RW Russell chandeliers stand out and shine bright (forgive me!) in an age of mass production and knock-offs. See for your yourselves....



for Beth Rudin de Woody's Palm Beach residence


These hall lanterns are perhaps my favorite and remind me of Jean Schlumberger jewelry (below). Bob says they are his most elaborate commission, and are encrusted with Swarovski crystals.

This commission for designer Robert Couturier's own New York apartment

was inspired by the sword of Damocles. I think it has a bit of a Verdura feel, non?
A chandelier for Kemble Interiors...


installed in this Palm Beach dining room.



Although it's partially cropped out of the photo, this chandelier for McMillen alum Marcy Masterson is clearly dynamite.


A candelabrum for Bunny Williams....
...in a whimsical still-life arrangement



Commission for the Aronow Rausch residence as seen in Elle Decor

Click here for more RW Russell chandelier fabulosity....

...and stay tuned for the outrageous Bob Russell house tour - words can not describe!

8 comments:

Real Card Studio said...

Spectacular! I want the Rudin de Woody chandeliers!

The Peak of Chic said...

Wow!! Thank you Emily for the introduction! It most definitely is jewelry for the home.

Emily Evans Eerdmans said...

Real Card - you take one and I'll take the other! Jennifer, my pleasure - and wait until you see Bob's apartment - you have no idea!

Anonymous said...

b w r 2 pieces de art are very J and L Lobmeyr ala the met - oh those austrians!!

Emily Evans Eerdmans said...

right on, Anonymous! wasn't familiar with Lobmeyr before, so thank you for the reference - here is their website if others are interested in taking a look:
http://www.lobmeyr.at/dt/luster/50er_60er/menue.htm

Anonymous said...

yes, you must become familiar with them....their designs are inspiration to many who design jewelry and lighting. I remember walking into the Bergdorf women's store after the rennovation a few years ago and not only being in awe of the beauty and appropriateness of the fabulous, chic design BUT plesently surprised to see the Lobmeyr sconces and chandeliers ala the met in all their glory!!. How great for the retail consumer to enjoy them like those high brow opera goers! Sadly though those great designs are now too readily available and are becoming a bit passe..So as interior design goes, lets bring out the next great "new idea" from retirement.

Anonymous said...

I new B.R. back in the late 80s... adore his vision, his hard work and tenacity over all these years. CHEERS to Bob Russell!! Still making gorgeous stuff and thank you E.E.E. for giving him the editorial kudos he deserves.

Ivory Pearl Interiors said...

I love the chandeliers for Beth Rudin de Woody's Palm Beach residence. Amazing!