As chic, bolo-tied and Fraulein-booted Houstonians descended upon the Round Top Spring Show in March, it wasn’t the array of antiques that had tongues wagging. The trendiest tents, barns, and perfectly-curated, invite-only cocktail hours and dinner parties all had one thing in common — the lighting!
Creatively-shaped jute pendants hung from sprawling Live Oak branches and barn beams, colorful floor lamps illuminated pastoral pop-up lounges, and dozens of whimsical lamps topped tables, with nary a power source in sight. New rechargeable technology by British brand Pooky Lighting was the culprit. Everyone clambered to get their hands on it, but the products hadn’t hit the market yet. Last week, however, that dream came true. The long-awaited Novogratz x Pooky collection of wireless outdoor lighting is finally available to the public, and it’s electrifying.
Power source constraints have long been the Achilles heel of homeowners attempting to add a little zhuzh to their outdoor spaces, relegated to incorporating zigzagging bistro lights and bland metallic tabletop options from big box stores. This stylish new collaboration allows indoor styling in outdoor spaces — and it’s actually affordable. With the priciest item in the collection topping out at just $425, expect to see this Round Top favorite popping up in tree branches and pergolas all over Houston. Not to mention impromptu sunset picnics in Menil Park — très chic!
Known for their color-forward approach to design, Robert and Cortney Novogratz’s brand, simply “The Novogratz,” has produced a fresh and sophisticated 14-piece collection for Pooky Lighting that blends traditional silhouettes with contemporary color. Utilizing their own playful “Antonine” fabric design in four colorways, including a delicate vintage pink option they’ve called “Blush,” there is something for everyone.
"We couldn't be more excited about our partnership with Pooky, drawing inspiration from our love of vibrant colors and outdoor living with hints of mid-century design. The collection beautifully blends our colorful, contemporary style with Pooky's elegant twist on traditional lighting, resulting in pieces that feel both fresh and sophisticated,” says Cortney Novogratz.
“What I love most is how we've brought much-needed color to outdoor spaces — especially that vintage-toned pink — and the way the cordless technology allows these stunning designs to enhance any gathering without limitations.”
The collection is available in four colorways: Blush, Denim, Moss, and Sand. The traditional-leaning “Stefan” lanterns come in small ($175), medium ($225), and large ($350). For a hanging application, color-matched lantern hooks are available for $50. Sure to be a hit at just $170, the “Tallulah” Jute Basket Pendant Lights add playful elegance to al fresco dining. The “Holleder” Standing Lamp sits at the top of the price range at $425, while the coordinating table lamp sits at $175. The second cordless table lamp option, “Oscar,” is $125. Three wall sconce styles are available: “Agnes” ($125), “Brandy” ($70), and the “Bellamy” Candle Sconce that is available in a brass finish for $95.
In addition to the lighting options, the collection includes decorative accents, such as the “Brandy” mirror ($395) for making sure everything is “just so” on balmy Bayou City nights, “Heidi” solar light strings ($165), and dinner candles packed in pairs for $5. Lampshades featuring The Novogratz “Antonine” fabric come in various sizes, in either Blush, Cappuccino, Seaview, or Sunshine (starting at $50).
Mix and match colors, styles, and shades for a bold, Maximalist look, or keep things clean and simple with a matching set, the possibilities are endless. Integrate hanging lanterns into a front yard landscaping theme, place floor lamps near the pool—toss out the rule book!
“We love how this collection encourages people to accessorize their outdoor space in the same creative way as their indoor rooms….the old rules of lighting no longer apply,” Pooky Lighting chief creative officer Jo Plant says. “There’s no reason why you can’t have a standing statement lamp next to your favorite lounger, or colorful table lamps and lamp shades over your outdoor dining table. We’re celebrating the joys of outdoor living and who better to do that with than The Novogratz who love color and pattern as much as we do.”
Photo by Amy Neunsinger
Cortney Novogratz proves nighttime picnics with the pups are easy with Stefan lanterns.
MAI newcomer Joseph Collins shops east coast estate sales for items like this rare, hand-signed humidor by Arthur Court.Photo by Emily Cotton
