Interviews
Illuminating the Past and Future: An Interview with Chandler McLellan
Chandler McLellan’s artistic journey is rooted in a fascinating blend of craftsmanship, history, and a deep connection to the natural world. A trained carpenter and cabinet maker with a degree in Archaeology, Chandler’s unique background has shaped his distinct approach to design—one that marries resourcefulness with an abstract, yet grounded sensibility. His work, which draws from the landscapes of the past while envisioning the future, has captivated top publications like Vanity Fair, Elle Décor, and Grazia, as well as international studios like HBO and Amazon Prime Video. Now, Chandler is bringing his distinct vision to lighting design with his debut collection for Troy Lighting. We sat down with him to explore the inspiration behind the collection and his approach to creating pieces that resonate with warmth, timelessness, and natural beauty.
The Inspiration Behind the Collection: Scotland's Influence
Q: Chandler, tell us about the inspiration for your lighting collection with Troy Lighting.
The inspiration for this collection is deeply personal—it’s all rooted in Scotland. I’ve spent a lot of time there, and it’s where I began my journey as a woodworker and where I developed my love for archaeology and material culture. Scotland’s landscape is incredibly special to me—rugged, sweeping, unpolished, and quiet. It has a certain understated grandeur that I wanted to reflect in this collection. Each piece is named after a place in Scotland, and the designs themselves are influenced by the soft, meandering qualities of the landscape. I wanted the collection to have presence but also feel warm, inviting, and not too flashy or loud.
A Journey from Carpentry to Lighting Design
Q: How did your background in carpentry and archaeology influence your approach to lighting design?
My background in carpentry has a profound influence on everything I create. The hands-on experience of working with wood and the deep respect for materials that comes from my studies in archaeology all contribute to how I approach design. I aim for designs that aren’t overly rigid or formal, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in different spaces. I believe lighting should be understated yet impactful—something that enhances a space without overwhelming it.
Designing with Natural Warmth and Balance
Q: How do you want consumers to feel about your lighting collection?
I want the collection to feel like it complements the modern, often sterile spaces we find ourselves in today. It’s about finding harmony, not conflict. I want these pieces to bring balance to a room, adding a natural warmth that evokes the feeling of bringing the outdoors inside. They shouldn’t compete with the space but instead create a sense of calm, inviting reflection and comfort.
Lighting’s Role in Interior Design
Q: How do you see lighting contributing to an interior?
Lighting is one of the most important elements of a space. It’s what sets the tone and mood. I personally gravitate toward soft, subtle luminance because it feels more natural to us as humans. Lighting should enhance the ambiance, not dominate it. It’s a tool for creating an environment where people feel at ease and inspired.
Styling the Collection: Embracing Natural Materials
Q: How would you recommend consumers style your lighting pieces in their spaces?
The collection should be paired with natural textures—wood, leather, and fabric. These materials complement the organic nature of the designs and help to bring out their warmth. For example, I think the table lamps are best positioned on a longer console table or a built-in shelving unit, keeping the surrounding area uncluttered to allow the lamp to shine as a focal point. The Jura sconce works well on a wall with other objects, while the Orphir sconce should be treated like a piece of art, positioned in its own space to stand out. The pendants, which are quite versatile, can be placed centrally in a room or off-center, depending on the desired aesthetic.
The Timeless Beauty of Lighting
Chandler McLellan’s debut lighting collection for Troy Lighting offers a rare opportunity to bring a piece of history and nature into your home. The collection’s understated elegance, combined with its deep-rooted connection to Scotland’s landscape, results in pieces that feel both contemporary and timeless. As you explore his designs, you’ll notice how they invite a softer, more organic light into your space—creating a harmonious balance between modern design and the natural world. This collection is not just about lighting a room; it’s about creating a space that feels grounded, warm, and full of stories waiting to be told.
Explore Chandler McLellan’s collection with Troy Lighting and let the beauty of natural materials and thoughtful craftsmanship illuminate your space.