ABOUT
Founded in 2008, lightexture emerged from the combined vision of an architect and a lighting designer, brought together by a shared passion for creating unique, sculptural lighting pieces. Rooted in a commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and artistry, our work aims to transform the way people experience light, blending functional design with a touch of the unexpected.
Each team member contributes a distinct set of skills and perspectives, allowing us to explore new dimensions of light and form. We craft a diverse collection of fixtures that embody both playfulness and sensuality, creating visual and atmospheric experiences that transcend traditional lighting. Through meticulous attention to detail, thoughtful design, and a collaborative spirit, we invite you to discover lighting as a medium of expression, with each piece acting as a conversation starter and a statement of style.
LOCATION
2 Third Street • Troy, NY • 12180
Located in the historic Frear Building in downtown Troy, New York, our shop offers a unique blend of history and modern comfort. The Frear Building, constructed in 1897, originally housed Frear's Troy Cash Bazaar, a premier department store that served as a retail hotspot for New York's Capital District. This architectural gem features ornately chiseled marble, brick facades, and a grand double staircase with marble steps and intricate cast iron railings -- a testament to Troy's rich ironwork heritage.
Now, the Frear Building is home to lightexture, along with several architectural firms, design offices, and restaurants. We make everything in-house, right here on the corner of Third and Fulton.
During daytime hours, our door is open -- stop by and join us for an espresso and check out our designs in person.
HOURS
Mon: 9a-5p
Tue: 9a-5p
Wed: 9a-5p
Thu: closed
Fri: 10a-5p
Sat: 10a-2p
Sun: appointment
Avner Ben Natan
Founder
Since the early 90s, Avner has worked with light as a medium, moving from film and TV to designing installations for art, dance, and architecture. As lead designer and managing partner at lightexture, he oversees operations, logistics, and day-to-day management, ensuring each fixture is crafted and delivered with precision.
Yael Erel
Founder
With a background in architecture and a vast, experimental portfolio of light optics, Yael studies how sources and reflectors create spatial and temporal compositions. She leads our research and development, infusing lightexture with academic insight and a distinct approach to light as a tangible material, transforming spaces through innovative designs.
Jackson Q. Gray
Designer
Jackson is a multidisciplinary designer and visual artist, responsible for lightexture’s 3D modeling, prototyping, and digital media. His background in product design, marketing, and fabrication shapes each piece, while his digital expertise strengthens our brand’s online presence and reach.
Amanda Messineo
Ceramicist
With a BFA in metalsmithing and ceramics, Amanda Messineo has been an essential part of our manufacturing team since 2017. Working closely with Ross in a converted studio, she expertly handles molding, glazing, and finishing, bringing lightexture’s Claylight ceramics to life. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures each piece meets our high standards of quality and artistry.
Ross Kunze
Ceramicist
A professional potter with decades of experience, Ross has been a fabrication backbone of lightexture since 2019. Working alongside Amanda, he meticulously shapes and refines each ceramic Claylight shade. His dedication to craftsmanship ensures every product meets our exacting standards for quality and artistry, adding a unique touch to our collection.