Diplomatic World_69

GISA NARRACOTT
THE MASTER OF CHANDELIERS
SERVING THE BRILLIANT
GISA NARRACOTT, YOUR COMPANY
LIGHTCOUTURE IS CONSIDERED ONE OF
THE WORLD’S MOST RENOWNED SUPPLIERS
OF LUXURIOUS CHANDELIERS. HOW DID
YOU GET THE IDEA TO DEDICATE YOURSELF TO
THIS PROFESSION AND WHAT PARTICULARLY
APPEALS TO YOU ABOUT IT?
I’m actually a fashion designer by profession and I think it is a
great pity that fashion is so ephemeral. That is why I wanted to
change and looked for something that is, as they say today, more
sustainable than fashion. Since I was very young, I have always
been very interested in interior design, so when I was living in
Wales, it happened that I made the acquaintance of Carl Mallory,
who sold unique chandeliers in England and America. After short
research, I found out that there was no one in German-speaking
countries who specialised in this business model yet. I thought it
was a great idea, then travelled with him to Italy, where he introduced
me to all the manufacturers. Shortly afterwards, I opened
the first online showroom in the German-speaking area. That was
the beginning of a love affair that has now lasted fifteen years
and was a small sensation at the time.
Over the years, a fruitful cooperation has developed with many
of them, but Italy is still the leading country for design and many
Asian customers prefer it.
DO YOU ALSO MAKE INDIVIDUAL CHANDELIERS,
WHICH ARE THEN UNIQUE AND DO NOT GO INTO
SERIES PRODUCTION?
Yes, there are many unique pieces. Some customers simply
choose something from the collection. But very individual and
unusual houses and building complexes also need special chandeliers.
For example, I have just made an individual chandelier
for the foyer of the Olympus headquarters with elements from
the lens of Olympus. Each of the 1,600 glass lenses was uniquely
made by the glass-blower.
Then I came back to Germany from Wales. My dream was to
open a big showroom, this time not virtual, but one where you
can look at these beautiful objects yourself, advise customers
and realise their individual wishes according to their plans. I then
opened the largest chandelier shop in Germany.
IN YOUR OPINION, FROM WHICH COUNTRY DO
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CREATIONS COME?
In the beginning, I was very influenced by Italy. Also, because my
business partner at the time, Carl, showed me a lot of Italy and
Italian design. At that time, it was very inspiring for me, and the
creativity and cheerful nature of the Italians can also be felt in
their design. They make particularly beautiful chandeliers.
Over the years, that has changed a little. I then also included other
manufacturers, such as Swarovski. There are also well-known
manufacturers from Portugal and France. And in recent years,
the Dutch have also become very strong in design.
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