OUR STORY

Vienna as the Cradle of the Maison

Bakalowits was born in imperial Vienna, a city transforming itself into one of Europe’s great cultural capitals. As medieval walls gave way to grand boulevards, salons and architectural masterpieces, the maison became part of the fabric of a flourishing empire. Its chandeliers illuminated the interiors where Vienna’s identity was being shaped — the residences of the aristocracy, the new cultural institutions and the grand spaces that defined the era’s spirit.

In this atmosphere of artistic ambition and architectural innovation, Bakalowits earned a reputation for exceptional chandelier craftsmanship. The maison’s work became synonymous with refinement, precision and the quiet confidence of Viennese design.

Craftsmanship as a Guiding Principle

From the beginning, Bakalowits has been defined by a dedication to craft. The arrival of electricity opened new possibilities: light could now be refracted, multiplied and transformed into shimmering colour — as if bringing a rainbow indoors. Crystal became not only a material, but a medium for artistic expression.

This philosophy endures. Every chandelier, every detail, every piece of hand-cut crystal reflects the same pursuit of excellence that shaped the maison’s earliest creations. Craftsmanship is not a technique; it is the foundation of identity.

A Dialogue with Visionaries

Throughout its history, Bakalowits has collaborated with the leading creative minds of its time. During Vienna’s avant-garde era, the maison worked closely with Josef Hoffmann, Koloman Moser, Oswald Haerdtl, Joseph Maria Olbrich and many others who defined the spirit of the Wiener Werkstätte, the Secession and the Jugendstil movement.

These relationships were personal as much as professional. Ludwig Bakalowits often brought ideas to life from sketches scribbled on a napkin — a testament to the maison’s openness, curiosity and ability to translate vision into form. This dialogue with designers, architects and artists continues to define Bakalowits today.

A Living Heritage

The Bakalowits archives remain fully intact — more than 10,000 original lighting designs preserved across generations. Creations from the turn of the century to the present day can still be produced, using both traditional techniques and the most advanced technologies available.

In an age when many historic enterprises have become trading companies, Bakalowits continues to manufacture with its own hands in its Viennese ateliers. This commitment safeguards the integrity of the craft and ensures that every piece carries the maison’s unmistakable signature.

A Family Stewardship

Today, Bakalowits is led by Prof. Friedl Bakalowits — the fourth generation — a master craftsman, professor of design and global strategist, together with his wife Mag. Aglaja Bakalowits, whose dedication ensures the continuation of quality, craftsmanship and warm personal relationships with clients worldwide.

The fifth generation, Mag. Sophie and Maximilian Bakalowits, are already contributing new ideas and perspectives — carrying the legacy of this remarkable family-owned lighting house into the future.

The maison remains what it has always been: a family enterprise shaped by passion, guided by tradition, and open to every new idea.