Portland

Portland

Lighting made from the history of Portland Cement

The Portland lighting series began with a remarkable piece of New Zealand industrial history: timber recovered from the original Portland Cement wharf in Northland.

The Portland Cement Works was established in the early 20th century and became an important part of New Zealand's cement industry. The wharf was built to serve the works and was used to transport cement and materials by sea. At around 1.2 kilometres long, the Portland Old Timber Wharf and Causeway was an extraordinary piece of infrastructure and is now recognised for its historic significance.

When James Russ was given the opportunity to work with approximately 100-year-old Ironbark timber from the wharf, the material suggested a different kind of lighting project. Rather than hiding its age and history, the intention was to preserve the character of the timber and allow its marks, grain and patina to remain visible.

From industrial timber to sculptural light

Each Portland pendant is made from reclaimed timber, giving a new purpose to material that once formed part of an important piece of New Zealand's industrial heritage.

The long, linear form of the timber lends itself naturally to architectural lighting, while the warmth and irregularity of the old wood give each piece a character that cannot be reproduced in new material.

The timber is carefully prepared and finished with multiple coats of Danish oil, protecting the surface while allowing the natural grain and history of the wood to remain apparent.

An integrated LED cassette provides a clean, even source of light, with a dimmable driver and an adjustable stainless-steel suspension system.

Portland is available in custom lengths from 1500mm to 6500mm, with each piece individually made and finished in New Zealand.

The result is a piece of sculptural lighting with a direct connection to place — old industrial material transformed into something contemporary, functional and enduring.

Details

Origin: Reclaimed timber from the Portland Cement wharf
Timber: Approximately 130-year-old Ironbark, subject to availability
Lengths: Custom lengths from 1500mm to 6500mm
Finish: Multiple coats of Danish oil
Light source: Integrated LED cassette
Driver: Dimmable
Suspension: Stainless steel cable
Made: New Zealand by James Russ

James Russ Portland wharf Old, weathered wooden pier extending over a body of water, with a cloudy sky overhead and bushes on the right side.
James Russ Portland wharf Large steamship docked at a pier with railway tracks, overhead electrical lines, and a rural landscape in the background.
James Russ Portland wharf, Old, weathered wooden pier partially submerged in muddy shoreline with green trees and a partly cloudy sky in the background.
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    • Available in custom lengths ranging from 1500mm to 6500mm

    • Portland Wharf timber (subject to availability)

    • Locally sourced timber

    • Internal LED cassette with a dimmable driver

    • Flush-mounted ceiling rose, fixings and adjustable stainless steel cable

  • Portland pendant download sheet

Enquire

We recently had the pleasure of working with James and his team on a wonderful new light fitting to hang above our kitchen island. We are extremely pleased with the end result, the ‘Blade’ light fitting ties in with our existing kitchen and has elevated our lighting to a new level – functional and timeless with lovely clean lines.

Working with James and Anna was very easy, their eye for detail and getting everything just right (including the installation) was excellent. For truly inspired feature lighting I highly recommend James and his team.

— Tania Young