For nearly a century, we've been creating lighting that brings beauty, warmth, and character into homes. While our collections have evolved alongside changing styles and technologies, our commitment to craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and lasting relationships has remained at the heart of everything we do.
The principles that guided Quoizel in 1930 continue to shape who we are today.
Where It All Started
In 1930, a small lamp company opened its doors in Manhattan, where founder Michael Chaikin set in motion a legacy that has spanned generations of lighting, craftsmanship, and innovation.
In our earliest years, we specialized in hurricane lamps fueled by oil rather than electricity. One of our most beloved designs was the Abigail Adams lamp, which remained part of our collection for decades and became a lasting reminder of our beginnings. While we no longer specialize in oil lamps, those early designs established a foundation of craftsmanship and timeless style that continues to guide us today.
Growing with American Homes
As homes changed and electric lighting became the new standard, Quoizel embraced a new era of design and innovation.
Over time, we expanded beyond portable lamps and introduced a full line of hardwired fixtures, including chandeliers, pendants, wall sconces, and ceiling lights. As architectural styles and interior trends shifted through the decades, our collections continued to grow, balancing timeless design with the needs of modern living.
This willingness to adapt while remaining rooted in craftsmanship and quality helped establish Quoizel as a trusted name in decorative lighting.
A New Era of Growth
In 1964, Ira Phillips joined Quoizel as Director of Merchandising and Sales, ushering in a new chapter for the company. Under his leadership, Quoizel experienced a period of significant growth, expanding its reach and further establishing its presence within the decorative lighting industry.
In 1986, Phillips assumed sole ownership, marking another important milestone in Quoizel's history. His vision helped guide the company through decades of growth and changing design trends, all while remaining committed to the craftsmanship and quality that had defined the brand since its earliest days.
Art Glass Legacy
One of the defining chapters in the Quoizel story is our long-standing appreciation for Tiffany art glass and the craftsmanship behind it. Inspired by the beauty and artistry of stained glass, we saw an opportunity to bring this timeless material beyond traditional table lamps and into new categories throughout the home.
Over the years, our Tiffany-inspired designs expanded to include chandeliers, pendants, wall fixtures, and other decorative lighting, bringing the character and warmth of stained glass to a wider range of spaces.
This unique approach helped establish Quoizel as a leader in Tiffany lighting and made art glass an important part of our heritage. Today, our Tiffany collections continue to be celebrated for their craftsmanship and timeless appeal.
Putting Down Roots in South Carolina
In April 1996, we moved our headquarters, manufacturing, and distribution operations from New York to the outskirts of historic Charleston, South Carolina.
The move to our 305,000-square-foot facility marked an exciting new chapter for Quoizel, providing the space and resources to continue growing while remaining committed to the values that have guided us since 1930.
Today, the Charleston area remains our home and a constant source of inspiration. Collections like Rue De Royal pay homage to the historic gas-lit lanterns found throughout Charleston, Savannah, and New Orleans, while our Charleston Edit celebrates the storied homes, architectural heritage, and timeless character that have defined Charleston for generations.
Continuing to Evolve
In recent years, Quoizel has embraced new opportunities while remaining guided by the principles that have shaped the company since 1930. Through every chapter, our focus has remained the same: creating thoughtfully designed lighting grounded in quality, craftsmanship, and trust.
Today, Quoizel lighting can be found in homes across the country through showrooms, retailers, and online partners. While styles and technologies continue to change, our commitment remains the same as it was nearly a century ago: creating lighting that combines thoughtful design with lasting quality.
Looking Ahead
As we approach our 100th anniversary, we remain grateful for the journey that brought us here.
From our beginnings as a small lamp company in Manhattan to becoming a trusted name in decorative lighting, our story has been shaped by innovation, craftsmanship, and the relationships we've built along the way.
While the future will undoubtedly bring new styles, technologies, and opportunities, our purpose remains unchanged: creating thoughtfully designed lighting that helps make every house feel a little more like home.
We're proud of where we've been, grateful for the relationships and partnerships that have shaped our journey, and excited for what lies ahead. Thank you for being part of the next chapter in the Quoizel story.
