Why Ceramic Lighting Stands the Test of Time, with Studio Enti
Ceramic lighting is celebrated for its durability, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, handmade ceramic fixtures bring depth and character to a space, with subtle variations that make each piece unique.
To explore what makes ceramic lighting such a lasting choice, we spoke with Naomi Taplin, Designer and Managing Director of Studio Enti, a Sydney-based brand known for its handcrafted porcelain light fixtures and tableware. From their meticulous production process to the qualities that set ceramic apart, here’s why this material remains a favourite in both modern and traditional interiors.
How do you ensure the longevity of each handmade ceramic light fixture during the production process?
At Studio Enti, longevity is at the heart of everything we create. Each handmade ceramic light fixture is crafted with precision and care, following processes designed to ensure strength, durability, and timeless beauty.
We use slip casting to form our porcelain lights, investing in premium Australian porcelain—renowned for its quality, luminous translucency, and natural colouration. This porcelain offers a soft, ambient glow without requiring fragile, paper-thin forms, ensuring both beauty and durability.
Each piece undergoes a meticulous process, requiring patience and precision at every stage. Even the smallest error can affect the final piece, so we approach each step with care. We fire our porcelain to both bisque and glaze stages at carefully calibrated temperatures, allowing it to fully vitrify into a strong, resilient ceramic body.
By choosing sustainable materials and thoughtful practices, we create pieces designed to last. In a world of fast fashion and disposable design, we celebrate slow, intentional craftsmanship.
What challenges come with working with ceramic in terms of durability, and how do you address them?
Working with ceramic—particularly porcelain—presents challenges, but our team’s expertise helps us navigate them with care.
Handmade ceramic production, especially for lighting, is intricate and delicate. Each piece is handled multiple times, passing through stages where small imperfections can become larger issues. The fragility of raw porcelain demands precision and skill at every step.
Breakages and setbacks are part of the process, amplified by the natural variations in porcelain, stains, and oxides. These fluctuations require us to continually test, adjust, and, at times, remake pieces to maintain our high standards.
Though this process is time-consuming, it’s essential for ensuring the durability and longevity of each fixture. By embracing these challenges, we remain committed to creating lighting that is both beautiful and built to last.
What role does ceramic play in creating a unique lighting experience that mass-produced material can’t replicate?
In small-batch, handmade production, every piece is crafted with intention. Artisans deeply engage with the materials, understanding their nuances and working with them by hand. From pouring porcelain to glazing, each step requires attention and expertise.
The individuality of handmade ceramics is key—no two pieces are exactly alike, even when crafted using the same techniques. Subtle variations in shape, texture, and finish add character, making each fixture one of a kind.
Mass-produced ceramics, by contrast, prioritise efficiency and uniformity. While this ensures consistency, it often lacks the personality and craftsmanship of handmade work. Mass production focuses on speed, sometimes compromising quality and materials, whereas handmade ceramics celebrate artistry and uniqueness.
Why do you think ceramic lighting continues to be a popular choice in both traditional and modern interiors?
Ceramic lighting remains popular because of its versatility, seamlessly complementing both modern and traditional interiors. The material bridges styles effortlessly, enhancing spaces without overpowering them.
The beauty of ceramic lies in its ability to adapt to both classic and contemporary designs. It allows for elegant, timeless forms that don’t follow trends but instead offer enduring appeal.
Lighting is more than a practical necessity—it transforms a space. Customers choose our ceramic pieces because they provide both functional illumination and artistic presence, striking the perfect balance between utility and beauty.
How does ceramic lighting contribute to the overall ambiance of a space compared to other materials?
Ceramic lighting adds warmth, depth, and refined elegance. Unlike glass or metal, ceramic diffuses light softly, creating an inviting atmosphere. High-quality porcelain allows for a glowing effect that enhances the mood of a space.
While glass provides a sleek look and metals create bold, reflective surfaces, ceramic offers a more tactile, organic feel. It evokes a sense of calm and comfort, making it ideal for living rooms, dining spaces, and bedrooms.
Each handmade ceramic fixture carries subtle variations in texture and glaze, contributing to a more personal and curated ambiance—one that blends seamlessly into a variety of interiors while adding timeless artistry.
How do different ceramic finishes, textures, or colours influence the mood of a space?
At Studio Enti, we understand that hue, texture, and finish can transform a space. That’s why we offer a range of shade sizes, colours, and metal finishes for a truly customised lighting experience.
Matte finishes provide soft, understated elegance, while deep tones add drama and contrast. Subtle texture variations create warmth and depth, making spaces feel more inviting.
Colour also plays a key role—soft neutrals like whites and greys create serenity, while deeper hues like terracotta and muted green add sophistication. By tailoring these elements, we help designers craft the perfect atmosphere for any space.
What should people consider when selecting ceramic lighting to match their interior style?
By offering a variety of shades, textures, and finishes, we enable designers to fine-tune the mood of their space, whether they’re creating a serene retreat, a lively gathering place, or a modern, minimalist environment. Each option allows for a thoughtful balance of functionality, beauty, and atmosphere, ensuring that every project is elevated and every space feels distinct and carefully curated.
Discover the full range of Studio Enti’s lighting, where each piece is designed to stand the test of time.
Watch Behind the Scenes at Studio Enti
See how these beautiful ceramic lights come to life in Part One of our Studio Enti Brand Spotlight:
Discover Naomi's design process, best-selling pieces, and learn how sustainability is woven into production in Part Two of our Studio Enti Brand Spotlight: