Who We Are
For almost 40 years, MSK Illuminations has been a premier source for classic and contemporary lighting from iconic manufacturers around the world, offering expert advice and service to architects, designers, and retail customers. We introduced many decorative lighting brands to the U.S. market—brands that are now widely recognized.
We are also highly experienced in architectural lighting, having specified and supplied lighting for numerous high-profile public projects, including hotels, restaurants, retail stores, and galleries. In addition, we work closely with architects and interior designers on residential projects and are always happy to collaborate directly with homeowners.
MSK Illuminations was founded by Miri Small Kesten, who began her career in the late 1950s as a buyer and later showroom manager for the trend-setting Scandinavian retailer Design Research, which helped introduce European design to the U.S. market. From there, she ran several retail galleries focused on homewares and design before turning her attention to lighting. She went on to serve as Vice President at Lighting Associates, a landmark lighting showroom in New York City that introduced many European lighting manufacturers to the U.S.
We are proud to offer trade discounts to professionals in the design industry and invite you to explore our showroom to experience the range and quality of our offerings firsthand. Whether you're embarking on a new project or seeking to update an existing space, MSK Illuminations is here to light the way.
For inquiries or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at 212-888-6474 or via email at msk@mskillumination.com.
The MSK Unique Value
With our deep knowledge of the lighting industry and our understanding of both residential and commercial lighting needs, we are uniquely positioned to interpret or even define project and product specifications, provide product recommendations, and supply lighting. We generally work with the A&D trade, including architects and designers, as well as builders, and we may coordinate with lighting designers, landscape designers, and electricians. We also work directly with end customers, although this is more common with decorative lighting, which tends to be less technical.
We are not limited to manufacturers established in the United States, as we frequently import directly from Europe. However, we only work with products that are technically compliant and covered by warranty for the U.S. market. For imports, we can arrange air freight, ocean shipping, or ground transport, depending on the specific needs of the project.
We also collaborate with many of our suppliers to customize products for particular customer or project requirements.
Some Of The Manufacturers We Represent
This is a partial list of manufacturers we represent from around the world. We are always expanding our portfolio, so please let us know if you’re looking for a specific manufacturer that isn’t listed.
Decorative vs Architectural Lighting
We specialize in both contemporary decorative lighting and architectural lighting. Contemporary decorative lighting can include iconic Italian designs from brands such as Artemide and Fontana Arte, or more traditional styles from manufacturers like Visual Comfort or Hudson Valley.
Decorative lighting is generally grouped into categories such as table lamps, floor lamps, wall lamps, and ceiling lighting. Subcategories of ceiling lighting include chandeliers, pendants (also known as suspensions), and flush-mounted fixtures. Subcategories of wall lamps include vanity lights, reading lights, and picture lights.
Decorative lighting may be built to order and is often available in a variety of finishes and sizes. However, in most cases, decorative lighting is standardized, meaning its specifications are not tailored to a specific project.
In contrast, architectural lighting is designed primarily for function rather than decoration. It is used to provide uniform general lighting, illuminate artwork, or create a specific visual effect. Most architectural lighting is built to order with specifications that are unique to each project. Common categories include recessed downlights, track lighting, monopoints or projectors, and specialized fixtures such as step lights or in-grade lighting.
Outdoor lighting can be either decorative or architectural, depending on its design and intended purpose.