Design Inspo

When it comes to architectural lighting, the materials and finishes are just as important as the light they cast. Alteck Lighting has mastered this balance with two of their most striking series: the Bend and Plateau collections. Both crafted from solid brass and available in the stunning Dark Bronze Oxide (DBO) finish, these collections represent a perfect harmony of modern design and timeless craftsmanship.

In this post, we’ll explore the design aesthetics, similarities, and the unique "living" nature of their premium finish.

The Bend Collection: Fluid Architectural Form

The Bend Collection is a masterclass in understated elegance. As its name suggests, this series features subtle curves and a soft architectural presence that feels both contemporary and classic.

• Design Details: The 18-inch wall sconce is crafted from high-quality solid brass. Its form is designed to integrate seamlessly into modern facades while providing a sophisticated, layered lighting effect.

• Dual Illumination: One of the standout features of the Bend series is its dual uplight and downlight. This creates a beautiful "wash" effect on the wall, highlighting the texture of the architecture above and below the fixture.

• Best For: Entryways or patio walls where you want a fixture that feels like a piece of sculpture during the day and a source of warm, inviting ambiance at night.

The Plateau Collection: Clean Lines and Refined Scale

If the Bend collection is about fluid form, the Plateau Collection leans into the strength of clean, architectural lines.

• Design Details: Standing taller at 24 inches, the Plateau wall sconce offers a more commanding presence. It features a refined, flat-plane design that emphasizes linear geometry.

• Aesthetic Impact: The Plateau is designed for those who appreciate minimalism. Its sharp, clean edges and flat surfaces allow the material—natural brass—to truly take center stage.

• Accessibility: Like the Bend, the Plateau is often ADA-compliant, making it an excellent choice for commercial projects or high-traffic residential walkways where a low-profile, "slim" extension is required.

Comparing the Two: Aesthetic Siblings

While the Bend and Plateau collections offer different silhouettes, they are undoubtedly part of the same design family.

Both collections utilize 5CCT technology, allowing you to choose between five different color temperatures (from warm 2700K to cool 5000K) with the flip of a switch. This ensures that the lighting perfectly complements your home’s stone, wood, or paint colors.

The Art of the Finish: Dark Bronze Oxide (DBO)

The most captivating aspect of these fixtures is the Dark Bronze Oxide finish. Unlike painted or powder-coated finishes that remain static, Alteck’s DBO is a living finish.

The Chemical Process

This finish is achieved through a meticulous chemical process applied directly to natural brass. Rather than layering paint on top of the metal, an oxidizing agent is used to react with the brass itself. This reaction darkens the material to a deep, rich bronze, revealing the natural grain and soul of the metal.

A Living Finish that Evolves

Because the Dark Bronze Oxide is not sealed with a thick lacquer, it is considered "living." This means:

1. Natural Patina: Over time, exposure to air, humidity, and the elements (especially in coastal or wet environments) will cause the finish to continue to oxidize.

2. Unique Character: No two fixtures will age exactly the same way. Your lighting will develop its own unique patina, darkening or showing subtle variations in tone that tell the story of your home's environment.

3. Timeless Appeal: While a painted finish might chip or fade, a living brass finish only gains depth and character with age, making it a true investment in your property's aesthetic.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer the sculptural grace of the Bend or the linear precision of the Plateau, both collections offer the durability of solid brass and the cutting-edge versatility of CCT-adjustable LEDs. By choosing the Dark Bronze Oxide finish, you aren't just buying a light fixture—you're adding a living piece of art to your architecture that will only get better with time.