This book explores the Rambusch Company’s rich origins as a multi-generational artisanal firm through a compilation of decorative arts projects spanning the past 25 years. Founded in 1898 by Frode Rambusch, a Danish artisan, today the company specializes in architectural lighting, stained glass, art metal, mosaic, restoration, and conservation. The book underscores the firm’s unwavering commitment to excellence and craftsmanship, showcasing its ability to navigate the challenges of mass production and evolving design trends. The narrative explores the company’s origins, tracing its evolution as a pioneering force in architectural illumination during the first half of the 1900s.
Rambusch maintains a commitment to handcrafted production made in the USA. The volume spotlights the company’s work in interiors, furnishing and lighting designs, incorporating the latest innovations via timeworn methods of craft, and its significant role as a partner in various projects, ranging from small-scale fixtures to monumental endeavors like the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. The projects are categorized into four highly descriptive sections of text, photographs and drawings, providing a comprehensive overview of Rambusch’s diverse and impressive portfolio in the decorative and ecclesiastical arts.
Charles D. Linn, FAIA, has specialized in architectural journalism and editing in the fields of architecture, design, and lighting. He is the former Deputy Editor of Architectural Record magazine, a consulting editor for GreenSource magazine, was the leader for Architectural Record’s Innovation Conference, and selected for the AIA’s College of Fellows in 2002. Previously he has documented some of the Rambusch company’s major contributions to the fields of ecclesiastical decorating and furnishings in prominent American churches, such as the domes in the National Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, and liturgical stained glass in churches and cathedrals around U.S.