B4 It Was Cool

Profile

B4 It Was Cool stocks industrial lights dating from the early days of electricity up through the 1930s. Owner Gadi Gilan has been scouring flea markets and old factories for iron, brass, and copper light fixtures since he opened the store in 1987. “I could tell you a story about every lamp,” Gilan says. All of the pieces he sells are original and American. Downstairs, the scene resembles an old barn, with fixtures hanging so low in some places that you may have to duck your head just to walk around. Vintage industrial furniture is also available; stools from the Toledo Metal Company are one of the boutique’s specialties. — Sam Dangremond