A new Hunza or LuxR copper luminaire starts with a warm salmon sheen. Over the years, it turns russet brown, then grey, and finally a soft blue-green. This slow change is why so many designers choose copper. The luminaire settles into its surroundings instead of standing apart.
Why solid copper suits outdoor lighting
Hunza copper luminaires are machined from high-grade solid and hollow bar stock with a heavy wall thickness, typically 10mm (3/8″) thick.
Copper naturally resists corrosion. As it ages, it forms a patina: a thin layer of copper carbonate that bonds to the surface and protects the metal underneath.
Scratches are not a weak point either. A new patina forms over the imperfections in time, so the protection renews itself.
How copper changes colour over time
The change happens in stages. A salmon sheen gives way to russet browns, then greys, and finally a blue-green or grey-green patina. It is the same green you see on old copper roofs and on the Statue of Liberty.
Salt, moisture, acidity and sunlight all affect how quickly this happens. So no two sites age in quite the same way, and the process usually takes years rather than months.
Where copper outdoor luminaires work best
- Coastal homes and sites. Solid copper, bronze and stainless steel are the materials we recommend near salt water or salt-laden air.
- Among planting, timber and stone. The browns and greens sit naturally beside leaves, bark and weathered surfaces.
- Heritage buildings and courtyards. Copper luminaires age alongside the building around them.
One exception: copper is not recommended in areas with high geothermal activity.
Copper luminaires in the Hunza and LuxR ranges
Many Hunza fittings are made in solid copper, as well as LuxR’s petite luminaires. A few places to start:
- Spot lights: Spike Spot, Spike Spot Adjustable, Wall Spot, Pole Spot
- Bollards and path lights: Bollard 300, Bollard 700, Mini Bollard, Path Light
- Step lights: Step Light, Step Light Louvre
- Wall lights: Wall Down Light, Pagoda Light, Pillar Light
- In-ground lights: Floor Light, Floor Light Darklighter
- Tree lighting: Tree Mount Light
- LuxR: Modux One Spot, Modux Two Spike Spot, Modux Four Spike Spot
Glare guards and snoots are made in copper too, so the accessories age with the luminaire.
Care and warranty
Copper needs very little looking after. The trim threads are coated with a high-temperature grease, so the fitting comes apart easily when it needs servicing. Otherwise, let it age.
Solid copper luminaires from both Hunza and LuxR carry a 10-year replacement warranty on the copper components. See our warranty page for the full conditions.
To see copper samples or talk through a project, find a specialist distributor near you.