Armstrong’s Lighting, which started 84 years ago on St. Bernard Avenue, has blossomed into a successful venture that specializes in lighting, ceiling fans, home décor and gifts. Today it’s located on Clearview Parkway in Metairie, and Leslie Armstrong, who co-owns it with her husband, Scott, says her goal is to make Armstrong’s the “go-to store for unique gifts, beautiful lighting and decorative solutions.”
What’s the first thing you discuss with a client?
We want to know what they want to accomplish with their lighting choices. Is
it mostly decorative or more functional? What kind of feeling are they looking for with their lighting and décor? Then we want to help them with decorating ideas to coordinate with that lighting choice.
What are some current trends in your business that you’ve noticed?
Everything is going green. Compact fluorescent lighting is the buzz in the marketplace right now, but we’re going toward LEDs [light-emitting diodes] –– they’ll be the next big thing in lighting.
People in and around New Orleans have a sensibility for somewhat traditional style with a bit of opulence and drama. Even our more modern clients aren’t drawn toward truly contemporary pieces. It seems that New Orleanians are immune to trendiness and more inclined toward timeless or transitional pieces.
What brands do you carry?
Minka Lavery, Murray Feiss, Uttermost, Quorum, Savoy House, Tech Lighting, Sea Gull, Broan, Lightolier, James R. Moder, Casablanca, Hunter, Craftmade, Minka Aire, HADCO, Bailey Street, Circle E and Willow Tree.
How is your store different or better than a competitor?
We’d rather be a resource for ideas on how to incorporate lighting to define your home’s style than to be a warehouse-type of store with an overwhelming selection of fixtures. It’s the thoughtfulness that sets us apart. F
