Business Details
33 Years
experience
Custom Lighting Solutions for Homes and Restaurants
Founded in 1993 by Lawrence Grown, Metro Lighting has established itself as a leader in architectural lighting design. Our team combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to create custom solutions for residential and commercial spaces. With over 30 years of industry experience, we prioritize sustainability, individual expression, and community engagement in every project. Our Berkeley, CA facility houses a skilled team of artisans specializing in metal fabrication, glassblowing, and UL-certified fixture production.We collaborate directly with architects and designers to transform concepts into timeless lighting installations. Our commitment to zero-waste practices and renewable energy, including a solar-powered facility, underscores our dedication to environmental responsibility. Every fixture we produce reflects our passion for design excellence and technical precision.
Services
Custom Lighting Design
Architectural Lighting Fixtures
Metal Fabrication
Glass Artisan Services
UL Certification
Sustainable Lighting Solutions
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of architectural lighting expertise since 1993
- UL-certified in-house fixture production facility
- Sustainable practices with solar-powered operations
- Team of master artisans in metal and glass fabrication
- Collaborative design process with architects and designers
Associations and certifications
- Underwriters Laboratories (UL)
What people say
Exceptional craftsmanship
Collaborative process
Unique designs
Sustainable practices
High-quality results
Services
Custom Lighting Design
We collaborate with architects and designers to create unique lighting solutions tailored to specific architectural environments. Our process combines 3D modeling with hands-on prototyping to ensure perfect integration with each space. With over 30 years of experience, we transform conceptual ideas into functional art pieces that enhance both residential and commercial interiors.
Metal Fabrication
Our on-site metal shop handles complete fixture fabrication using techniques like welding, plasma cutting, and sheet metal forming. We maintain strict quality control throughout the process while supporting local artisans for specialized components. This capability allows us to deliver complex custom designs with precise attention to detail and finish.
Glass Artisan Services
We work with master glass artists to create hand-blown and kiln-formed glass components for our lighting fixtures. This includes traditional techniques like Lustre Art Glass and modern fused glass methods. Each piece combines artistic expression with technical precision to meet specific design requirements while maintaining consistent quality.
UL Certification
As a UL-certified facility, we perform in-house testing and labeling for our lighting fixtures. Our certification covers dry/damp location incandescent and LED fixtures, ensuring compliance with safety standards. We also offer testing services for external fabricators, maintaining rigorous quality control throughout the production process.
Sustainable Lighting
We integrate sustainability into every aspect of our work, from material selection to energy-efficient lighting solutions. Our solar-powered facility demonstrates our commitment to environmental responsibility. We help clients achieve their sustainability goals through long-lasting designs and waste-reduction practices while maintaining aesthetic excellence.
People
Lawrence Grown
Founder, Lead Designer
Architectural lighting expert with 30+ years experience. Graduated from University of Cincinnati's architecture program in 1990. Developed Metro Lighting's signature design approach combining architecture and lighting. Creator of large-scale art installations including Burning Man's chilopod.life.
Christa Rybczynski
Partner, Lead Designer
Licensed architect with extensive experience in custom lighting design. Specializes in restaurant lighting solutions that create memorable dining experiences. Manages operations and collaborates with designers on complex custom projects. Holds architecture degree from University of Cincinnati.
Boun
Lead Fixture Fabricator
Master metalworker with 25+ years of lighting fixture production experience. Expert in metal fabrication and electrical assembly. Known for problem-solving skills and commitment to production schedules. Has worked with Metro Lighting since 2007.
Alex
Glass Blower
Oakland-based glass artist specializing in Mirage and Dune glass lines. Rhode Island School of Design graduate with expertise in glass sculpture. Combines artistic vision with technical precision to create high-quality lighting components.
Carl
Lustre Glass Specialist
Master of traditional Lustre Art Glass technique with 40 years experience. Revived this historic method through chemical and craftsmanship expertise. Creates unique glass components requiring precise timing and material knowledge for Metro Lighting's distinctive fixtures.
Questions
What types of lighting solutions do you specialize in?
We create custom architectural lighting for residential and commercial spaces, including custom fixtures, sconces, pendants, and chandeliers using metal and glass materials.
Can you work with my existing design plans?
Yes, our architect-trained team collaborates directly with designers to implement custom lighting solutions that match your specific design vision and technical requirements.
Are your lighting fixtures UL certified?
Yes, we're a UL-certified facility that performs in-house testing and labeling for our fixtures, including dry/damp location incandescent and LED options.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your work?
We use renewable energy at our Berkeley facility, implement waste-reduction practices, and create long-lasting designs that minimize environmental impact throughout the product lifecycle.
Do you offer custom order options?
Yes, most of our fixtures are custom-made to order. We work closely with clients to create unique lighting solutions tailored to specific spaces and design requirements.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Berkeley, CA, we serve clients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, Northern California, and accept custom orders from locations nationwide.
Reviews (2)
Karen Kiyo Lowhurst
May 06, 2018
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Fabulous experience today at Metro Lighting. We had the undivided attention of a very skilled, lovely sales person who guided us through the process of selecting a creative, gorgeous fixture for our dining room. Can't wait to see it. So pleased to support one of our wonderful local businesses. Places like this help make our Berkeley community great.
Lori DeLay
Nov 28, 2014
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We love so many of the designs and have several of them in our home. The owners, Christa and Lawrence, are great people and their business practice matches our values (i.e. local, sustainable, etc.)
