Behind the Brand: Original BTC

Who are Original BTC?

Founded in 1990, Original BTC is a British lighting manufacturer based in Oxford, with showrooms in London, Paris and New York. This family owned company is led by a father and son duo (Peter & Charlie Bowles), who create high quality lighting designs for both domestic and commercial use.

With original designs and a strong belief in preserving traditional craftsman’s techniques, Original BTC is an excellent example of British-made design. They have saved a number of struggling, British factories from closing, including a Stoke on Trent Bone China Factory. Today they continue to use this factory’s traditional methods to create beautiful ceramic shades.

Original BTC also owns the Davey Lighting brand, which specialises in heritage marine light fittings and has a history dating back to the 19th century, as well as LED lighting manufacturer Beadlight.

From using centuries old techniques to the very latest technology, all lights are handmade and manufactured in the UK. Production facilities include the bone china factory mentioned above, as well as a metalworks and glassworks factory. These manufacturing benefits allow Original BTC to continue to produce their timeless designs, without compromising on the finer details, such as their famous cotton braided cables.

Why We Love Original BTC Lighting

We love Original BTC lighting because they hold three important design elements close to their hearts: quality, detail and a variety of handmade materials. We admire each and every design from Original BTC, so it is hard to choose a favourite piece, but one of our most popular products is the Cobb rise and fall pendant. This light has been traditionally inspired with a modern twist. The design allows you to adjust height and vary the lighting effects, making them the ideal choice for dining rooms and kitchens. Simply lower the light when hosting a dinner party or raise for everyday use.
The design is based on a Dutch cobblers light, with a bone china shade and features the signature braided cotton flex.

Fun Facts about Original BTC

• The brand is driven by a family heritage of design, steeped in manufacturing and business. A carpenter by trade, Peter’s Bowles grandfather was chairman of Minty Furniture of Oxford, later bought out by the famous furniture brand Parker Knoll.
• Unsatisfied with the finish of the commonly-used plastic lighting flex, Peter Bowles decided to replace it with a woven cotton braid, snipped off the family iron. This has now become one of Original BTC’s best-loved design features.
• Early in 2015, Original BTC was honoured with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade as a testament to their high-quality products and dedication to preserving British industry and success.