Business Details
27 Years
experience
Custom Ceramic Lighting in Albuquerque, NM
Southwest Ceramic Lighting was founded in 1999 as CDS Kiva and has grown into a trusted provider of custom ceramic lighting solutions. Our team combines over two decades of experience in handcrafting durable, high-quality ceramic fixtures designed to withstand extreme climates while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, we operate as a family-owned business that prioritizes personalized service, offering over 100 unique designs and 40+ color options to meet diverse customer needs. Our commitment to innovation is evident in our ability to adapt to client requests, expanding from traditional Southwestern motifs to contemporary, nautical, and custom designs.We maintain rigorous quality control through our slip cast mold process and use of premium exterior-grade materials, ensuring products that endure harsh conditions from Alaska to Florida. Our expertise extends to compliance standards including ADA and Dark Sky requirements, reflecting our dedication to serving both residential and commercial clients with functional, code-compliant lighting solutions. As a UL-listed manufacturer, we guarantee satisfaction through our three-year warranty on lighting components and finishes.
Services
Custom ceramic lighting
Wall sconces
Ceiling fixtures
Outdoor lighting
Dark Sky compliance
ADA compliant lights
Hand-painted finishes
Copper banding
UL listed fixtures
International shipping
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- Handcrafted in the USA using high-quality ceramic materials
- Customizable designs with over 100 options and 40+ colors
- Lights tested to withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions
- ADA and Dark Sky compliant lighting solutions available
- Family-owned business with over 20 years of lighting expertise
Associations and certifications
- UL Listed
What people say
Stunning and we're very proud
Colors are awesome
Perfect compliment to the setting
Easy to install
Amazing reviews of durability
Services
Custom ceramic lighting
We create bespoke ceramic lighting solutions tailored to client specifications. Our process allows complete customization of design, color, and finish combinations. With over 100 patterns and 40+ color options, customers can create unique lighting that reflects personal style while maintaining durability in various climates. Each piece undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure longevity.
Dark Sky compliance
Our outdoor lighting meets Dark Sky requirements by controlling light direction. We offer closed-top designs that prevent upward light pollution while maintaining aesthetic appeal. This service helps customers comply with municipal regulations while preserving nighttime visibility and reducing energy waste through focused illumination patterns.
ADA compliant lights
We design lighting fixtures that meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards. Our ADA-compliant sconces maintain proper clearance and mounting heights to ensure safety in public spaces. This service helps commercial clients achieve regulatory compliance while providing functional illumination for all users, including those with mobility challenges.
Hand-painted finishes
Our artisans apply premium exterior-grade paints using hand-painted techniques. Customers can choose from solid colors or multi-finish combinations with metallic accents. This service ensures long-lasting vibrancy through UV-resistant materials that withstand harsh weather conditions while maintaining aesthetic quality over time.
Copper banding
We incorporate copper metal banding into ceramic designs for enhanced visual appeal. This decorative element adds architectural interest while maintaining structural integrity. The service allows customers to customize lighting with contrasting metallic elements that complement various design styles from rustic to contemporary.
People
Mike Baker
Co-Owner
Mike Baker co-founded Southwest Ceramic Lighting in 1999, transforming it from a small workshop into a national supplier of custom ceramic fixtures. With over 20 years in the lighting industry, he oversees production and design innovation while maintaining hands-on involvement in quality control.
Lydia Baker
Co-Owner
Lydia Baker co-owns Southwest Ceramic Lighting with her husband Mike. She manages customer relations and business development, ensuring personalized service for all clients. Her 20+ years in the industry focus on understanding client needs and translating them into functional, beautiful lighting solutions.
Questions
Can I customize my lighting design?
Yes, we offer full customization including design patterns, color combinations, and metallic accents. Customers can select from 100+ designs and 40+ colors to create personalized lighting solutions.
Are your lights suitable for outdoor use?
All our fixtures are UL listed for outdoor locations. The ceramic construction and premium paints withstand extreme temperatures from -30°F to 120°F while maintaining durability.
Do you offer ADA compliant lighting?
Yes, we provide ADA compliant wall sconces that meet accessibility standards. Our fixtures maintain proper clearance and mounting heights for public spaces and commercial buildings.
How are lights installed?
Our lights mount directly to standard electrical boxes with included hardware. UL and state codes require proper installation, but we provide all necessary components and instructions for straightforward mounting.
What warranty do you offer?
We provide a three-year warranty covering lighting components and finish integrity. This includes free repair or replacement of any defective parts when installed correctly.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we offer worldwide shipping. While free shipping applies to the 48 contiguous US states, we coordinate international deliveries and provide shipping cost details upon request.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Jane Papin
May 25, 2022
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I've purchased four of the round ceiling fixtures and a sconce for my front door. I'm totally delighted with them all! Excellent quality and appearance. I highly recommend Southwest Ceramic Lighting!
Carmen Ovici
Apr 29, 2022
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I looked for months to find replacements for my outdoor lights. I wanted something that would be affordable, well built and match the architecture of the house. When I finally came across the sconces made by Southwest Ceramic Lighting I knew immediately that that's what I wanted. I bought four of them for outside the house and I liked them so much that I called the company and ordered five more for the courtyard.
They look great in daylight but really spectacular at night. Good quality and really easy to install. And communications with the owner were great and helpful. Couldn't be happier with my purchase. In fact, my daughter saw them and liked them so much that now she wants some too.
They look great in daylight but really spectacular at night. Good quality and really easy to install. And communications with the owner were great and helpful. Couldn't be happier with my purchase. In fact, my daughter saw them and liked them so much that now she wants some too.
Mark Hischar
Feb 25, 2022
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Great experience working with Mike and his team at Southwest Ceramic Lighting. The selection was extensive and everyone was very helpful in guiding our decision and explaining the process. I highly recommend them. We still get compliments on how the lights look on our house.
Mark McElheney
Feb 23, 2022
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Southwest Ceramic Lighting is an amazing company. When I needed an exterior light, I wanted to shop locally. Turned into a one-stop shop for me. From the moment I walked in, Michael and his staff truly impressed me with their hospitality. The light fixtures the company creates are even more impressive. I found a fixture in the showroom that was exactly what I was looking for. I was so happy! Micheal even showed me the creative processes in the studio, proud of the work his team creates. My only regret is not having posted this review sooner because I'm going back for another light and I want folks to know how great this company is. Thank you!
Ken Arneson
Feb 21, 2022
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It was the perfect shopping experience! We bought a set of outdoor lights for our Arizona home. There were roadrunners [birds] in the image on the lights, and Southwest Ceramic told us about the options for making them right-facing and/or left-facing. They shipped almost immediately, and we received them at the time we weren't receiving most of the other stuff we ordered due to Covid. We're very pleased with the helpfulness of the company and how quickly they delivered. Also, the lights are top-notch.the best we've seen in our resort community!
Tim Altstadt
Feb 14, 2022
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We had a great experience working with Mike at Southwest Ceramic Lighting! It was perfect to be able to choose the finish, design, and size of our 5 fixtures, all of which are different and chosen specifically for their place in our condo. Mike even sent samples of the finishes (hand painted!) so we could see them in our space! The lights arrived before we thought they would (always a plus), and they were packed with great care to protect them.
When we unwrapped the lights and saw them in person, we were more than delighted: they are gorgeous! Our phone calls with Mike--one to ask general questions, and one to actually order--gave us total peace of mind about ordering light fixtures online. Mike was so helpful in listening to our design plans and suggesting options for us. The electrician who installed the lights also commented on how beautiful the sconces were--and he sees a LOT of lights! We will definitely look first to Southwest Ceramic Lighting for any future lighting needs.
When we unwrapped the lights and saw them in person, we were more than delighted: they are gorgeous! Our phone calls with Mike--one to ask general questions, and one to actually order--gave us total peace of mind about ordering light fixtures online. Mike was so helpful in listening to our design plans and suggesting options for us. The electrician who installed the lights also commented on how beautiful the sconces were--and he sees a LOT of lights! We will definitely look first to Southwest Ceramic Lighting for any future lighting needs.
Robert Wilkins
Dec 21, 2021
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We are very happy with our exterior lights from Southwest Ceramic Lighting. Michael took the time to discuss different style options and the process involved in fabrication. Transaction went smoothly thanks to their responsive, direct, and informative communication. Will recommend without hesitation.
