Materialism: Wood in Lighting Design

Rewire Gallery celebrates the rich legacies of design in wood, while curating a future for the material in both lighting and furniture design. Our gallery is home to a carefully selected range of vintage pieces that speak to the heritage of wood craftsmanship, alongside contemporary fixtures that push boundaries with sustainable practices and modern technology.

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From the 19th century and moving into the 20th century, wood has played a defining role in electric lighting design. Rooted in the traditions of the Arts and Crafts movement, early fixtures were handcrafted from different species into simple, functional forms that honored natural materials and the hand of the maker.

As design evolved, so did wood’s place within it. The post-war era brought a wave of innovation: molded plywood and new production methods gave rise to sculptural, organic forms. Scandinavian designers further reimagined wood as a signature of minimalist warmth — favoring birch, oak, and pine to create lighting that softened long winters and celebrated honest materials. The blend of Scandinavian and Japanese aesthetics led to a renewed appreciation for minimalist lighting designs using wood and natural materials.

The brutalist movements used materials like wood and bronze to create heavy-bodied forms that would feel more spacious, yet keep textural warmth with the elemental offerings of wood tone.

By the late 20th century, wood was a canvas for creativity — from rustic brass-and-wood hybrids to bold, colorful explorations inspired by the Memphis Group. Each era brought its own interpretation, proving that wood could adapt, inspire, and endure.

We, of course, also love wood furniture — its texture, the way it develops a patina, and its ease of use make it a staple. Here are a few of our favorites, from Faye Toogood to Marcel Breuer, and new additions to our collection like Salvador Dalí and Antoni Gaudí for BD Barcelona.

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Newsletter Published October 7, 2025