I had a floor lamp custom made at Metro Lighting on San Pablo Avenue in Berkeley. When I picked up the lamp I noticed the base was too small in proportion to the height of the lamp. The lamp was top-heavy. A co-owner said that if he had had a larger and heavier base when he was making the lamp, he would have used it. But he did not attempt t acquire one. Instead he gave me a list of lamp stores where I might be able to find a heaver base. (After I had just paid $500.00 for a lamp!) Soon after I got the lamp home my kitten knocked it over, breaking the piece that attaches the shade to the base, leaving the shade hanging from a wire. When I brought the lamp back to Metro Lighting for repair I asked if there is anything they can do to make the lamp more stable and less of a potential fire hazard. The co-owner suggested mounting the existing round base on a heavier rectangular base for an additional hundred dollars. I couldn't believe that he didn't offer the heaver base for free to correct his own negligence. The lamp is stable now but it does not look right because of the rectangular base (it was designed for a round base). And I burn my fingers when I switch if off because the switch gets so hot. (Metro Lighting told me that no one else has ever complained!) I think that it was very unethical for Metro Lighting to accept my order in the first place when they did not have the proper components to make a stable and safe lamp. I'd like to return the lamp for a full refund. I've imagined just leaving it on their doorstep to be rid of it. This lamp would definitely not earn a UL stamp of approval.

This lighting store is a refreshing change from other box store chains, which all show the same tired selection. In addition to the traditional craftsman fixtures, they carry whimsical designs and gorgeous handblown glass. The lead time can be a bit long- 6 weeks, but it's worth the wait. Prices are not low, but the quality is high, so you won't be tossing things out in a few years to replace it (like IKEA.)