APPARATUS
APPARATUS
Apparatus is a distinguished New York–based design studio renowned for its masterful fusion of lighting, furniture, and objects within immersive environments. Founded in 2012 by Gabriel Hendifar and Jeremy Anderson, the studio has garnered acclaim for its meticulous craftsmanship and innovative use of materials such as marble, suede, horsehair, lacquer, and porcelain, often combined with hand-patinated brass to create sculptural pieces that exude both modernity and timeless elegance.
Under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director and CEO Gabriel Hendifar, Apparatus has expanded its presence with galleries in New York, Los Angeles, and London, each reflecting the studio’s unique design ethos. Hendifar’s background in fashion and interior design informs his approach, emphasizing the creation of objects that enrich the human experience and leave an emotional imprint. His dedication to historical and cultural research imbues each piece with a profound narrative, transforming functional objects into soulful works of art.
The Los Angeles showroom epitomizes Apparatus’s commitment to creating spaces that feel like thoughtfully designed residences or boutique hotels. The showroom’s architecture, featuring arches inspired by De Chirico’s paintings and Escher’s etchings, creates a sense of discovery as new volumes reveal themselves, enhancing the immersive experience.
What sets Apparatus apart is its devotion to the rigor of small studio craftsmanship, centering the importance of the human hand in lending soul to an object. Each piece is hand-finished and assembled in their dedicated New York factory, ensuring a balance between mechanization and the beautiful irregularity of humanity.
This meticulous attention to detail and storytelling resonates deeply with me, as I believe that the narrative behind a design enriches its presence and impact. Apparatus’s pieces are not merely fixtures; they are artifacts imbued with history and emotion, capable of transforming a space and transporting its occupants. Their commitment to quality and materiality results in creations that are both fashion-forward and elegantly sophisticated, making them one of my preferred sources for exceptional lighting solutions.
I am thrilled to feature Apparatus as the inaugural brand on the Est. List, and I invite you to experience their Los Angeles showroom through the video tour below.
Watch our full video tour:
Explore our top five items to make THE EST. LIST:
#1 - Reprise : Pendant
The Reprise Pendant by Apparatus draws inspiration from Joe Colombo’s iconic designs, KD 27 lighting, boom microphones, and the meticulous artistry of luggage craft. Featuring a brass armature wrapped in hand-stitched leather or suede, the pendant exudes timeless elegance. Its mold-blown glass diffusers soften the light, creating an inviting ambiance. Available as a pendant, ceiling, or ceiling-extended fixture, the Reprise blends vintage references with modern sophistication, making it an exquisite centerpiece.
#2 - Signal X : Pendant
The Signal X Pendant by Apparatus channels the elegance of mid-century innovation with references to satellite communication, Fresnel lenses, and Erwin Blumenfeld’s evocative portraits through glass. Its pressed glass diffusers emit a radiant, multidimensional glow, while the brass armature provides a sleek and sturdy frame. This pendant balances industrial inspiration with artistic sophistication, making it a striking focal point in any space. A testament to Apparatus’s ingenuity and craftsmanship.
#3 - Horsehair : 2 Sconce
The Horsehair Sconce 2 by Apparatus is a beautiful study in the contrast between organic materiality and industrial form. Inspired by Steven Klein’s equestrian imagery and the craftsmanship of riding tack, its wefts of horsehair seem to provide structural support while adding a sense of fluid movement. The brass form, cast to appear draped over a peg, blends softness and strength, creating a sculptural and functional work of art. This piece adds a timeless elegance to any interior.
#4 - Episode Armchair
The Episode Armchair by Apparatus is a perfect fusion of sculptural artistry and functional design, characterized by its elegant proportions. Inspired by the Lunar Rover, Rosie the Robot, and Rachel Whiteread’s works, the chair blends futuristic elements with timeless sophistication. Its aluminum armature, available in finishes like Aged Brass, Oil-Rubbed Bronze, and Tarnished Silver, complements luxurious upholstery options in leather, suede, or wool sateen. A harmonious balance of form and comfort, it’s a true design masterpiece.
#5 - Cylinder Collection
The Cylinder Collection by Apparatus exemplifies the beauty of proportion and utility, drawing inspiration from the minimalist works of Walter De Maria. Available as a Downlight, Pendant, or Downlight Extended, this collection offers functional, directional lighting with a refined mechanical joint that seamlessly blends form and purpose. Perfect as a primary or secondary light source, each piece embodies a sleek simplicity that enhances any interior, making it as versatile as it is striking.
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