Shashank Nayak founded Abner in 2015 to fill a gap in the Indian lighting design market. He identified a need for fixtures that combined design, distinctive materials, and technical precision, which were scarce at the time. Abner, an AD PRO Directory brand, was established to blend European design with local manufacturing, creating lighting tailored for Indian homes and climates.
Nearly a decade later, its product range includes architectural and technical lighting as well as decorative fixtures made from materials like concrete, marble, and notably, Spanish alabaster.
Spanish alabaster has emerged as a signature material in Abner's decorative lighting collection. The latest offerings incorporate alabaster into table lamps, wall lights, pendants, and larger statement fixtures, showcasing its unique characteristics. The material's intricate veining, mineral deposits, and translucent quality make it appealing before the lights are turned on. When illuminated, its natural striations and tonal variations enhance the visual appeal of each fixture.
Nayak emphasizes the importance of considering light as an integral part of design rather than an afterthought. He explains that their approach focuses on how materials influence light behavior and interaction with surfaces, ultimately affecting the atmosphere of a space. This interplay is particularly prominent with alabaster, where factors like color and translucency play critical roles in the quality and distribution of light.
The creation process begins with the careful selection of stone, followed by cutting and shaping to fit the design. Techniques like chiseling, grinding, and polishing are employed to refine the surface while maintaining the stone's natural markings. Unlike standard surface treatments, these variations are inherent to the alabaster itself.
Abner’s manufacturing facility in Bhiwandi enables the team to manage every stage of production, from material selection to the finishing of each fixture. This oversight is crucial for working with alabaster, marble, and concrete, as each material has specific considerations. Nayak notes that precision and material expertise are vital in this process. The facility also allows for experimentation with forms and applications while adhering to technical and functional requirements.
In addition to its standard collections, Abner collaborates with architects and interior designers to create customized fixtures for specific projects. The architectural lighting designs can be seamlessly integrated into larger schemes, while the decorative collection allows for exploring alabaster across various scales, from small table lamps to large pendant installations. This dual capability enables Abner to meet both technical needs and design-focused requests.
Looking forward, Abner plans to continue exploring new materials and their uses, aiming to introduce fresh options to the Indian lighting market. The brand remains committed to developing decorative and technical lighting that aligns with the evolving demands of contemporary architecture and interiors.
