Bevolo copper lights in New Orleans

Bevolo is the first word in bespoke lighting in the New Orleans French Quarter

There may be no better place in the South than New Orleans’s French Quarter in springtime. And if you happen to be working on a home project, plan a visit to the studio of Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, where America’s most-desired copper lighting is still made meticulously by hand.

In the 1940s, Andrew Bevolo Sr. transformed the production of gas lamps, replacing soldered seams that were prone to crack and crumble with a stronger hand-riveting technique. Today, their original French Quarter Lamp can be seen throughout the Quarter as well as in other historic districts nationwide. Bevolo is the industry standard when it comes to luster, luxury, and designer-level copper illumination. An heirloom-quality Bevolo lamp, whether a hanging lantern or a sconce, is expected to last a lifetime.

Andrew eventually turned the reigns of his company over to his nephew, Drew, who now employees 15 highly skilled craftsmen. Each lamp is produced manually at their workshop on Royal Street, which is open for visitors during business hours every day but Sunday. It’s a fascinating stop, and their artisans are happy to describe the steps in Bevolo’s storied process.

Traditional designs remain best sellers, including the Vieux Carré series, known for its Rosetta standard original bracket; the Signature series, featuring a curving Italianate iron scroll bracket; and the Six-Sided London Street lamp with its bottom finial.

Drink, Eat, Stay in New Orleans

When you’re finished geeking out at Bevolo, a libation may be in order. Toast to good times with a Pimm’s Cup at Napoleon House. Introduced in America by the original proprietor Joe Impastato, the low ABV English cocktail is a warm-weather staple. The landmark building, erected in 1797, garnered a “Timeless American” award in 2019 as a community icon and an industry benchmark. 500 Chartres St., napoleonhouse.com

Dinner could be a quick amble over to chef Susan Spicer’s restaurant Bayona, housed in a classic Creole cottage dating to 1769. At Bayona, the James Beard Award-winning chef uses local ingredients to craft a menu of daily changing global dishes. If weather permits, it’s always a treat to dine al fresco here. 430 Dauphine St., bayona.com

For a historic place to rest your head, consider newly reimagined The Celestine, recently honored by the Michelin Guide as being “a very special stay.” Its ten guestrooms were reimagined by designer Sara Ruffin Costello for hoteliers Robért LeBlanc and Neal Bodenheimer. The building, which dates to 1791, retains its original interior courtyard. Rooms have been upfitted with antiques, custom linens, original art, and private balconies—a real luxury in the Big Easy. 727 Toulouse St., thecelestinenola.com