THE NEW YORK TIMES: Claremont Hall’s Historic Chandelier Restoration

We were honored to have our restoration work at Claremont Hall featured in The New York Times in November 2024. The historic chandeliers once illuminated the Union Theological Seminary’s refectory and are now part of Claremont Hall’s transformed pool area.

Tapped by Robert A.M. Stern Architects and CetraRuddy, the Remains Lighting Company team meticulously restored these extraordinary bronze lighting fixtures, preserving their history while preparing them for a new era.

The Chandeliers: A Masterpiece in Bronze

Our founder, David Calligeros, was initially surprised by the chandeliers’ composition.

“When I first saw the images of the fixtures, I was convinced that they were made of plaster, because that’s usually how that scale of fixture for that type of institution would be made,” he shared with The New York Times. 

But upon closer inspection, he discovered they were crafted from solid bronze—each piece weighing hundreds of pounds and showcasing an extraordinary level of artistry.

A detail image of the unrestored bronze body of the chandelier.

Meticulous Chandelier Restoration

Recognizing their craftsmanship, David and the team scrupulously restored each light fixture, ensuring their historical integrity while enhancing their brilliance for modern use. The chandeliers now illuminate the transformed pool area, their warm glow reflecting off the newly added bronze wall tiles, seamlessly integrating past and present. 

A team membor works on restoring the finish of an antique bronze chandelier using patina and brushes.
A detail photo of a portion of a restored antique bronze chandelier.
An image of a completely restored bronze chandelier in a photo studio.

By breathing new life into these historic chandeliers, Remains Lighting Company played a key role in preserving Claremont Hall’s legacy. To explore more about Claremont Hall and the full restoration process, check out The New York Times article.

The restored antique bronze chandeliers pictured in the old refectory of Claremont Hall, hanging above a swimming pool.